We hit another crossbar today when El Diego was beaten by a neck at Wincanton in the 3m2 handicap chase. Harry Skelton gave him a peach of a ride and he deserves plenty of credit. However, he hit El Diego one too many times than the allowed eight times under the new whip rules and it does seem harsh that he´s now to be banned (and loose his riding fee, and percentage of winnings) for doing everything within his powers to win the race.
Talking of whip rules, I cannot really understand why the BHA have decided it is ok to use your stick 7 times in a 5 furlong sprint, and only 8 times in a 3m2 handicap chase.... I am not sure this has really been thought through!
Anyway, I am chuffed that our horses continue to be in great form and I look forward to seeing Ixora run at Cheltenham on Saturday - exciting times.