As we were all glued to the Olympics throughout the middle part of August I was pleased that we secured one gold medal, three silvers and a bronze in the last two weeks, as our summer string continue to run well.
After the mini break in jump racing throughout the early part of August, it was nice to resume racing at Worcester 10 days ago. Carrigkerry finished 3rd in another novice hurdle, and I hope he can find an opening again before long to make up for his win that was taken away from him earlier this summer. Whilst Right Enough ran gallantly to be 2nd off his 11lbs higher mark, but unfortunately he returned with an injury that will rule him out of action for a moment.
Breaking Bits was another to hit the crossbar when he found only one too good for him at Fontwell last week. It was a real shame for him as the handicapper had finally given him a chance but having been denied by 2 lengths, the handicapper wasted no time by putting him straight back up. It does beg the question: “Are they handicapped not to win, or to make a level playing field?” Breaking Bits hasn’t won in 3 years, but has been 2nd six times since his last win! He is a victim of his own consistency, and I can understand why some trainers play the system, as the system doesn’t appear watertight!
Meanwhile at Bangor Our Three Sons (OTS) was another to hit the woodwork. Page was supposed to be taking 7lbs off his top weight, but she broke her ankle the previous day and so Harry Cobden took of 3lbs and we were beaten only 2 lengths. OTS has now been placed in three bumpers, two novice hurdles and two handicap hurdles from 9 career starts. Surely he’ll get his head in front soon, but a 6lbs hike in the handicap for finishing 2nd won’t be easy to overcome, so he might be best back in a maiden hurdle.
The frustration of missing out on a gold medal ended on Thursday as Brave Encounter jumped his way to victory at Fontwell. He led from start to finish and was given a superb ride by Brendan Powell as his jumping won it for him. It was just his second start for us, and I think there could be more to come from him providing the handicapper doesn’t over react!
I am delighted that The Folly Partnership have bought Between the Waters, but they are looking for one more member to join the partnership, so if you are interested to become involved with this Irish Point-to-Point winner who is out of a black type winning mare who is the sister of the prolific Graded hurdle winner Satin Lover (3rd in the Supreme Novice hurdle at the Festival), then do let me know.
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