AUGUST news...
I love having runners at Chepstow and Connie's Rose has been an absolute star for us there winning twice in July but not every horse acts on the undulating track and this was the case with Ladypacksapunch. Making her debut for the stable she ran a lovely race considering she was unsuited by the course. Luckily we found some decent fast ground forFaint Hope at Newton Abbot and he continues in good form with a close fourth only beaten 3 lengths.
Sadly as much as try I can't affect the weather but I really wish it would rain on Bath racecourse! To have so many meetings lost there because of the firm/hard ground is so disappointing. I appreciate that the meetings have been transferred to Southwell and Wolverhampton but that doesn't help Symbol of Hope who has a tremendous record at Bath. Nevertheless Symbol still proved his consistency when we travelled further afield, his runs at Windsor, Salisbury and Wolverhampton produced a fourth, a third and another fourth. The handicapper has relented slightly so hopefully it won't be too long before he is back in the winner's enclosure.
Say Grace finished third at Ffos Las followed by a fourth at Chepstow and she's another who will benefit from a handicap drop.
Connie's Rose ended the month for us with two creditable thirds on consecutive days at Chepstow and continues in great form. As you can see, lots of placed efforts, it's frustrating to be so close but we can't complain with how well the horses are running. My thanks to the team at GHR for all their hard work. Take care everyone!
JULY 2022....
A relatively quiet but successful month. Our star performer was lovely filly Connie's Rose who scored twice in six days, both wins at Chepstow. Firstly over 7 furlongs she just held on to win in a head-bob under a fine ride from Gina Mangan and followed that up with an all the way win over 6 furlongs under an equally good ride from Callum Hutchinson. Connie's is now on a hat-trick and we'll try and find her a nice race somewhere. Soldier's Son ran a couple of respectable races starting with a 4th and then a 5th both at Chepstow again. I keep saying thatSoldier's isn't far away from winning and I'm confident that given a clear run in the right race that he is on a winning mark. We ended the month with a decent 3rd from Faint Hope which followed his excellent close second in June. He's a horse that needs really quick ground and it's so frustrating that conditions haven't been right for him. It's always exciting to get new horses in the yard and we seem to have got really lucky with our purchases at Ascot Sales where we bought three very nice types. The Cola Kid is a lovely consistent grey gelding with plenty of good form and wins over 6 and 7 furlongs. Ladypacksapunch is a really nice 3yo filly that looks a 'bit of a steal' from Richard Hughes. She's only had 4 runs but has been placed in three of those races! Finally, we bought one from Nicky Henderson, Diamond River is a 7yo that hasn't run for a while but had some good form previously.
We've had a really good year so far at GHR, 34% of ALL our runners in 2022 have finished in the first 4 and an incredible 52% have achieved prize money, so we are really excited to see if the new horses can add to those fantastic stats.
Take care everyone!
JUNE 2022 news:
Soldier's Son kicked off the month for us at Bath when finishing a close sixth after once again meeting trouble in running. I've said before that he'll win soon, we just need a bit of luck! Current stable star Symbol of Hope once again showed his well-being by coming third at Chepstow. Secret Secret looked nailed on for second at Uttoxeter before unluckily falling at the last, thankfully he was completely fine after. We bought Searching nearly three years ago and he has given us some great days out. He won three races for us and was a real character. After five months off he ran a fantastic third at Ffos Las on his return, but was cruelly struck into over the last and his injury was so severe nothing could be done to save him. Sometimes a horse comes along that you just click with and his quirks made him even more special, so it was a very sad day and a long drive home especially with the loss of Mabo not long ago. Back at Chepstow next and frustratingly with two seconds! Connie's Rose ran really well and is a very consistent filly, then Soldier's Son just got touched off in the final furlong to be beaten a length. Our run of seconds continued when we finally found some quick ground for Faint Hope who ran a lovely race but unfortunately was beaten half a length with winning jockey Brian Hughes showing why he is Champion Jockey. When a horse wins a race, you accept that its handicap mark is likely to go up but to finish second and be raised 4lbs seems very harsh, yes, we were well clear of the third but it's still a bitter pill to swallow. That eveningSymbol of Hope came good for us again at Bath winning his third race at the track since April, it took us a little while to get to know him but he has certainly repaid the Owner's patience. Still at Bath Say Grace made her debut for us having been claimed recently. She ran a nice race off her higher mark and looks a nice filly to have some fun with.
Take care everyone!
MAY 2022,
We started and finished the month on a high. Symbol of Hope began our month in the best possible way scoring very easily at Bath under another good ride from Ray Dawson. Symbol is in fine form at the moment and is proving very consistent although it will more difficult for him given the inevitable rise in the handicap, so it proved when finishing a close fourth(beaten just a length)and then a good third both again at Bath. We ended the month on another high with a new addition to the stable when Paul and Ann de Weck claimed 3yo Say Grace after a fast finishing second at Leicester. Say Grace had won her previous two races and seems a lovely filly. Secret Secret had his first run on the flat for us and ran a creditable third running on nicely in the final furlong. Wise Glory had two quick runs, the first at Chepstow where he stayed on stoutly in second after leading most of the way, then a very good fifth in a much better race at Newbury staying on nicely after finding some trouble in running, he's a really nice horse.
Faint Hope ran well at Kempton when fifth, then frustration kicked in. Faint Hope needs good quick summer ground and twice this month we have declared to run only to have to withdraw due to the softened going. It's frustrating for me and frustrating for the owners. From time-to-time artificial watering is necessary to produce a safe raceable surface, but to water and end up with good to soft(or worse) ground seems unfair to owners who have waited patiently for better going for their summer horses.
Disappointment of the month for us happened not on a racecourse but at Newmarket Sales. The very well named Royal Defender is a 4yo who won it's only Irish point by an impressive 10 lengths. It was our pick of the sales and we went to £150,000 but sadly lost out to David Pipe who secured him with the next bid. We'll watch Royal Defender's progress with interest and we wish the new connections good fortune with him. Take care everyone.
APRIL 2022 news.....
It was a busy month and started with a terrific run from novice hurdler Lord Bill finishing second at Chepstow under a very good ride from William Kennedy. Now eligible to run in handicaps he is one to look forward to for owners Andrew and James and has an exciting future ahead of him. Secret Secret ran a close third beaten under 2 lengths at Exeter given another good ride from champion conditional Kevin Brogan. Symbol of Hope has his quirks and after having to be withdrawn at Windsor ran a quite encouraging race at Wolverhampton. Although only coming seventh he showed us all that he was ready to return to form. That proved to be correct when he absolutely dotted up at Bath on his next start given a confident ride from Ray Dawson. I was so pleased for owners 2Counties Racing who had been so patient while we ironed out Symbol's issues. Later on the same card at Bath lovely filly Luxy Lou was a very close third beaten half a length and a head, looking like a winner a furlong out she kept on really well hopefully signalling a fun summer ahead.
We ended the month with a very busy day at Chepstow and although no winners we certainly had a day full of promise for the future.Connie's Rose followed her third at Kempton in March with another third, staying on nicely after having led early. Symbol of Hope was turned out again quickly after his Bath win and stayed on really well finishing second confirming his well-being.
One of the reasons that I bought Soldier's Son last year from Henry Candy was a promising run at Chepstow in July. Chepstow is definitely a 'horses for courses' track so I was hopeful he would be able to replicate that run for GHR. And so it proved when finishing third under Mollie Phillips, staying on very nicely indeed. Soldier's Son is currently for sale to stay in the yard. Someone needs to buy this gelding quickly; it's a winner waiting to happen and has a very favourable handicap mark. Please give me a call if you are interested. Take care everyone.
March 2022
Justshortofabubble had shown some promise on his first runs for us at Warwick and it was great to see that promise demonstrated with an excellent second at Taunton under a good ride from Conor Ring. It was frustrating to be beaten a neck but bodes well for the future. Well, what can I say about the Racing Club's Karakoram? 'Kenny' is unbelievably consistent as I highlighted last month, but in March he took it to a new level. In the space of 12 days he achieved 3-2-1....third at Hereford, second at Taunton and then a brilliant first at Chepstow. Good rides from Joe Anderson, Lewis Stones and Joe Anderson again. I love having a winner at our local track and Chepstow always look after us so well. It's lovely for more Racing Club members to attend and enjoy the day out and celebrate a winner! And another mention forJustshortofabubble who ran a very creditable fourth in Kenny's race.
The month ended on another high when newcomer Connie's Rose was an exciting third on her stable debut at Kempton, only losing second in the final strides. Ill-fated Mabo is a hard horse to follow for owners Paul and Ann but hopefully Connie will give them some fun days out and plenty of success. Let's hope for a good April, have a happy Easter everyone and take care!
January/February 2022:
GHR's Racing Club horse Karakoram has begun the year in splendid form! Two close fourths followed by good and strong finishing fifth and sixth places meant that 'Kenny' has run 38 times for us and has achieved prize money on 36 of those runs. He always gives Club members a fantastic day out and plenty of excitement, especially from the second last with his customary late run. New members are always welcome and the annual one off, all included(no extras) cost is very affordable for everyone. Just contact me for details.
Classy Wise Glory has had a recent 'wind-op' and showed his well-being with a brilliant run at Kempton in a 0-85 handicap finishing second at 100/1, but this was no fluke, he's a very nice horse and was only beaten by an improver winning its fourth consecutive race. Lovely filly Luxy Lou has enjoyed her break and made her all-weather debut at Southwell finishing a close third running an excellent race and was closing on the front two as the line came. She's another destined for a good year.
The horses are rightly the stars of our sport, but they only become stars as a result of the love and care of their stable staff. So it was with enormous pride that GHR's Head Girl Christina Berry was nominated for the Godolphin Stable Staff awards. Nomination was well deserved and to initially get to the final 10 was an incredible achievement, then to be told Chrissy was in the final three of the Rider/Groom category just made us all so proud of her. Chrissy, as you all know, is dedicated to her horses, fiercely loyal and a fearless rider. The Awards were shown live on Racing TV and Chrissy finished runner-up to winner Paddy Trainor, this was an amazing feat. Congratulations to all involved be they winners or nominees.
Take care everyone!
DECEMBER 2021 news....
December 2021 news....
What a fantastic way to end the year with a winner when Racing Club horse Karakoram came with a nicely judged run under promising conditional Joe Anderson to take the lead on the run-in at Taunton. It's always good to get a winner but I was particularly pleased for the Racing Club members. Hopefully the handicapper will be lenient with us and we can look forward to starting 2022 positively as 'Kenny' has come out of the race well and is in great form.
The month started with Searching finishing fourth at Leicester and although beaten a long way on testing ground, he now appears really well handicapped and could give us some fun days out. On Call ran well for a long way at Exeter attempting a hat-trick of wins, but the combination of the extended distance on sticky ground was his undoing and Conor Ring wisely pulled him up when his chance had gone. He remains a horse with an exciting future. I'm grateful for the opportunity to turnaround the fortunes of a horse with the quality of Wise Glory and hopefully we can find the key to him. Another new recruit that ran a race full of promise was Irish import Justshortofabubbleat Warwick and he looks another to have some fun with.
Well, it's been a year of highs and lows, we ended up with 9 winners and frustratingly 13 second places. However, in 2021, 28% of ALL our runners finished in the first 4 places and 73% of ALL our runners achieved prize money!! So, to any prospective owners, if you have horses that need a change of scenery be assured that we will endeavour to sweeten them up and place them in the right races to do the very best they can and give you and your friends an enjoyable days racing.
Thank you to all GHR's Owners for your support in 2021 and we wish you all good health and good fortune in 2022. Thank you to my fantastically loyal staff for their hard work, I am lucky to have such a great team.
I wish everyone a Happy New Year, take care.
NOVEMBER 2021 news.......
Horse racing is a wonderful sport, the 'highs' are incredible but the 'lows' can break your heart.
This was never more in evidence than this month. On Call ran a fantastic race to win at Chepstow with Conor Ring excelling. There is nothing better than to win a race at our local track but the way in which On Call ran and jumped was an absolute thrill for owners John and Edwina, congratulations to them. That's consecutive wins and now we'll try for the hat-trick in December although it will be difficult having been risen 14lbs for those two victories. And then the lowest of the lows when we lost stable favourite Mabo a few days after having clipped heels at Kempton. We tried everything but to no avail and our thoughts go out to owners Paul and Ann at such a distressing time. Mabo was such a star, a multiple winner that always gave his all. It's so sad and words can't express our sorrow.
Racing Club horse Karakoram ran another good race at Plumpton finishing second and continues to give Club members a lot of fun. Secret Secret ran third at Taunton and Symbol of Hope ran a race of promise finishing a close 6th at Kempton, leading until being caught inside the final furlong.
I'm delighted to announce that another stable favourite, Head Girl Chrissy got presented with the Stable Staff Recognition award at the Welsh Racing awards evening. Everyone at GHR is so proud of Chrissy, she is so dedicated and hardworking. This recognition was richly deserved. Congratulations!!
Take care everyone!
OCTOBER 2021 news...
We started and finished the month in great form. Racing Club horse Karakoram returned to the track after his summer break with a good 4th at Uttoxeter and then On Call and Conor Ring gave us a great day at Chepstow winning at the high-profile meeting. Horse and jockey were determined that nothing would get past and ran out a convincing winner. Rest assured that everyone at GHR were shouting them both home all the way up the straight!!
Searching is a bit of a character but showed he still has ability with a close-up 5th at Hereford after leading at the last. Back to the flat and the ultra-consistent Mabo ran another great race at Bath finishing a good second after a rise in the weights. He continues in fine form and hopefully another win won't be far away. We went to Ludlow withKarakoram tackling a higher grade, although he was 4lb wrong at the weights I thought it was worth taking chance at a course where he has won previously and thankfully it paid off with a fast finishing second, he is another horse that consistently runs his race and give Club members plenty of fun and excitement.
Secret Secret an Irish recruit, delighted us at Stratford when he won under a very good ride from promising conditional Kevin Brogan. "Secret" was making his stable debut and showed a nice turn of foot to win what was admittedly a very ordinary race, but we all love a winner!
The last six or seven weeks have been busy and stressful helping my bestie Ruby to look after her first litter of puppies and although it will be hard to see them go in the next couple of weeks, I'm pleased they have all got lovely homes to go to and I can start sleeping again!!
It's been a really good month, take care everyone.
September 2021 news....
Last month I highlighted the extraordinary record of Mabo since he joined GHR and this current stable star did us proud again when winning by a wide margin at Bath under Rossa Ryan. Mabo has been incredibly consistent for us and has given his owners Paul and Ann some great days racing now winning five times. Earlier in the month Faint Hope returned after a short break to run a super race when finishing a close second at Warwick. Although Faint Hope has won two races for us, he has been really unlucky this year finishing second on three occasions, being beaten a total of three lengths and each time by a very well handicapped improver. I should also give a positive mention toSymbol of Hope who ran a very encouraging race on his debut for the stable. Always with the leaders he finished a creditable fifth at Ffos Las and hopefully can be a winner soon.
GHR's Open Day was well attended with over 75 Owners and their friends having a fun day out. It was lovely to see so many people enjoying the visit and we were gratefully blessed with fine weather. We continually try to improve our facilities and the new all-weather circular training gallop produced some very favourable comments. We were pleased to welcome the Racing Club members especially as GHR Racing Club horse Karakoram is on target to return to the track early in October after his summer break. A one-time annual payment covers all expenses and offers members the opportunity to go racing and enjoy the thrill of ownership at an affordable cost for everyone. Please contact me for details. The Open Day takes a lot of organising and hard work by the whole team here at GHR and I must thank everyone involved, I appreciate all your hard work. Take care everyone.
AUGUST 2021 news ...
The month got off to a great start when Mabo won at Ffos Las under a good ride from Jason Watson. Since Paul and Ann bought this lovely gelding, Mabo has run 29 times and has achieved 4 wins, numerous placed efforts and won prize money on 25 of those runs. A great purchase and is sure to add to those incredible statistics in the months to come. GHR ended the month with another good run from Luxy Lou when finding one just too good on the day, but finishing a highly creditable second. Luxy has also been really consistent particularly at Chepstow, although not getting her head in front it's only a matter of time and is a winner in waiting. Scobie and Candy seem to have a talent for picking horses that run well at Chepstow having previously owned Bungee Jump!
Karakoram the GHR Racing Club horse has enjoyed his break and should be back racing by the end of September and we look forward to seeing Club members at the races soon. Membership of the Club is very affordable and new members are always welcome. If you are a prospective Owner either as an individual or as a syndicate or interested in joining the Racing Club, please give me a call or drop me an email and we can arrange for you to visit to the stables, meet the team and view our setting and facilities first hand. You are sure of a friendly welcome.
I'm pleased to say we have a couple of new additions to GHR. Soldier's Son and Symbol of Hope have joined the team, we have been at Tattersalls sales for the last few days and thought these two would give us all some fun days racing. 5yo Soldier's Son appears to run its best races at Chepstow and 3yo Symbol of Hope looks a lovely sprinter. We have also been trying to find NH horses and tried to claim a couple in August but disappointingly were not successful in the subsequent ballot, but we are always looking.
Now that racing seems to have returned to some normality, I would just like to thank the Owners who have supported GHR and been so patient throughout the restrictions. Thank you, take care everyone!
APRIL/MAY 2021 news....
Although no winners in April there were several very encouraging efforts and it looks like the better ground has come at the right time for us. On Call ran very well to finish 3rd at Chepstow, then Faint Hope looked like winning at Warwick but was unlucky to meet a Harry Fry handicap good thing and went down by a neck, with the pair drawing 15 lengths clear of the third. Luxy Lou ran a lovely 3rd at Chepstow and yet again consistent Air of York ran its usual good race and was 4th, also at Chepstow.
And then came May and so did a change in our fortunes. Profile Picture and Mr Woody both ran at Uttoxeter on the first of the month and both ran incredibly well to finish second in their respective races at 50/1 and 20/1. Profile Picture seemed to bump into one and finished clear of the third, Mr Woody also ran well and was so unlucky to beat all except a handicap 'snip'. The winner went on to win its next race by 16 lengths off a 10lbs higher mark, which just underlines how unlucky Woody was. But we didn't have to wait long to get a winner when two days later Faint Hope stayed on nicely to just get home at Kempton and our next jumps runner was Profile Picture who went back to Uttoxeter and won in determined fashion despite a higher handicap mark rounding off a good start to the month. We ran Mr Woody again and thought he would run well at Southwell but due to low sun only 6 hurdles were jumped with a further 7 omitted which wasn't in our favour.
Just a reminder about Drew Breeze, this is a lovely 4yo chestnut gelding that has already won twice this year. He ran his first race for us at Bath and finished a nice 8th running on towards the finish, was only beaten under 6 lengths and is now attractively handicapped both turf and all weather. He is for sale to stay in the yard, so please contact me if you would like a reasonably priced fun horse.
Let's hope our good form continues into July!! Take care everyone.
FEBRUARY/MARCH news...
After a promising start to the year with consistent Air of York winning in January it's been a frustrating last couple of months. However, On Callhas given us some good days out, a 4th at Hereford, a 3rd at Newbury and latterly a really good 2nd at Chepstow. Let's hope the sequence continues with a win next time and make it 4.3.2.1....
I'm really looking forward to the turf flat season, we have some lovely new horses to 'go to war' with.Luxy Lou is a lovely 3yo filly purchased by Scobie and Candy Davies to replace prolific winner Bungee Jump who has started her new career at stud. Perfect Sign is another lovely 3yo filly bought by John Thomas after she won nicely at Southwell last time. With a rating of 77 we have several options to get excited about. Drew Breeze is one that I bought, this 4yo chestnut gelding has already won twice this year, by 2 lengths and 5 lengths at Southwell. Drew Breeze is currently for sale and if you are looking for a dual winner at a reasonable price, please give me a call. More good news is that Paul and Ann de Weck were successful at Tattersall's sales this week in buying Musaytir a good looking 3yo colt with decent form and an even better future.
Just a quick update on a couple of stable favourites, Mabo returns back to training next week and Racing Club horse Karakoram had a nice return finishing 6th at Hereford before starting favourite at Chepstow, but was desperately unlucky in running, badly interfered with and nearly being brought down on the bend before eventually finishing 8th. New members for the Racing Club are always welcome.
With the re-introduction of owners in England and Scotland this week we had more fantastic news that Wales have followed in allowing Owners back as from Chepstow on Easter Monday. It's still only 2 owners per runner but it's a welcome start.
Wishing everyone a lovely Easter, hopefully we will see you soon. Take care.
JANUARY 2021.
Happy New Year to everyone following Grace Harris Racing. Hopefully this will be a year that sees the end of these awful times.
GHR started the year with a convincing winner when the consistent Air of York ran on strongly under a lovely ride from Rossa Ryan to win at Kempton in a competitive race. Yorkie previously ran a highly promising third at the same track the week before. There were other encouraging performances during the month, Havana Sunset ran a couple of nice races before finishing fourth at Wolverhampton and Chief Brody ran a really good fourth at Exeter. It's just disappointing that so many meetings are being lost to the weather. "Assistant trainer" Mollie-Rose enjoyed her first birthday and gave us all a bit of a boost even if it was a different type of party than usual. Thank you Zoom !! Please stay safe everyone!
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020:
November was unusually quiet for GHR with only a handful of runners and although there were no winners there was plenty of promise shown, with over 61% generating some prize money.
December so far has been much more encouraging. GHR's Racing Club horse Karakoram ran a lovely race at Hereford, so much so that on a competitive day's racing it was highlighted in the Racing Post as the "eyecatcher" of the day at the track. Just to remind you that Racing Club membership is still available and this may be a perfect time of year to think about surprising someone with a special gift. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of a winning club especially with 'Kenny' looking like he is going to give us all some fun over the next few months.
The Garrison was in the process of running a fine race at Hereford and still appearing to be travelling very well before unseating at the third last. It was so disappointing, but on the plus side, he looks another that appears to be in very good form. The highlight of the month has been the performances of newcomer Havana Sunset. I bought this lovely 4yo at Tattersalls sales at the end of October. His first run was at the beginning of December at Wolverhampton and finished a fantastic second only beaten a head in a photo, he followed up that run with in all probability an even better run to come a strong finishing sixth when up in grade at Kempton. Running from the outside draw of 12 was always going to be difficult, but to finish so fast and so close from such an uncompromising position was very encouraging. Havana Sunset is currently for sale and here is a proven performer that is ready to run immediately. If you are interested in finding out more details, please contact me personally.
Well, we are coming to the end of a difficult and unusual year. Hopefully with the roll-out of a vaccine there is a light at the end of what has seemed to be a never-ending tunnel. I wish all GHR Owners, staff, suppliers and supporters a Happy Christmas and a better New Year. Please stay safe, thank you all.
OCTOBER 2020
The month got off to a great start when Chief Brody won at Exeter under a good ride from Ben Jones and in a very good time. It was lovely to see Lucy and Richard get a homebred winner. The following week we had another winner when The Garrison won very nicely at Uttoxeter again being given a good ride by Shane Quinlan. The Garrison was extremely game and held on well to win his first race after some promising runs previously. Last month we said goodbye to stable star Grams and Ounces and sadly this month once again we have seen another stable favourite Bungee Jump leave to go to stud in Ireland. Bungee won 9 races in total during her fantastic career, GHR were fortunate to have 5 of those wins since Scobie and Candy claimed her back in 2018. Rising from a rating of 76 to 95 during her time with us, she also had five seconds and five thirds. We all wish her well and hope her produce do her proud.
With Racing being identified as an 'Elite sport' we should be grateful that it continues, but I appreciate the challenges for Owners with racing behind closed doors without Owners currently in Wales and we still await more information regarding England after the Prime Minister's recent announcement. In these difficult times thank you to all GHR's Owners, staff and suppliers. Stay safe.
SEPTEMBER 2020
We started the month with a terrific run from the Racing Club's Karakoram who finished a very creditable third in a hot race at Newton Abbot. It was a great return, unfortunately Kenny's subsequent run was marred by interference as he was beginning his challenge but he came home relatively unscathed and Club members can look forward to some fun days racing over the next few months. The following day Searching continued the stable's good form with a staying-on third at Uttoxeter. Air of York's consistency continues with two fine efforts finishing third at both Wolverhampton and Bath demonstrating his ability to act on both turf and the all-weather. A much used cliche in sport is "it's not about winning, it's the taking part"....well I'm not sure I buy into that personally, but to have a horse good enough to qualify and run in the Ayr Gold Cup is amazing. Stable star Bungee Jump gave us all a fantastic thrill and while it wasn't Bungee's day what a wonderful mare she is.
As we say goodbye to some stable stars like Grams for example, the exciting news is that we welcomed four new horses: Profile Picture, River Song, Piano Stairs and Final List. I'm grateful to the Owners for sending them to GHR and I hope we will repay their confidence in me and the team by finding some success along the way. I've been very fortunate with the Owners I have during these challenging times, so once again I give you my thanks for your support. Stay safe everyone.
AUGUST 2020.
A quiet month with only 15 runners and from our point of view the only winner was the weather. We had strongly fancied entries at Chepstow and Windsor only for the meetings to be called off in the middle of August due to waterlogging!!!
The very consistent Air of York again ran well to be fourth at Windsor and then third at Wolverhampton. Nearly Famous ran with credit finishing a close up fourth only beaten by 2 lengths at Lingfield.
It was with a heavy heart the decision has been taken to retire stable star and everyone's favourite Grams and Ounces. It's mixed emotions, I'm so sad dear Grams won't be racing again but I'm so pleased he has finished this chapter of his career healthy and sound. We were so grateful to have had the opportunity to have Grams at GHR, at a time when I was just embarking on my training career Ron Williams thankfully sent Grams to us 5 years ago and Grams ran a total of 65 times for us winning 7 times, and in total finished in the first 4 on 32 occasions. We are now looking for a lovely new home for him where he will be cared for and loved and somewhere that will treat him like the star he is. Please contact me for details.
Just a timely reminder about the Grace Harris Racing Club. Club horse Karakoram is fit and well after his break. He will give Club members some really fun days out in the coming months and ran an excellent race to be third in a very good race on 1st September. We always welcome new members and the cost is extremely reasonable with a one payment of £275 for 12 months or £350 for a couple, again for 12 months. That's less than £1 a day for a whole year for a couple!! Again, please contact me for details. Stay safe everyone.
JULY 2020
The good form of the horses and the stable continued into July with another 3 winners to add to the 3 we had in June.
Nearly Famous got the month off to a decent start with a good fourth at Chepstow and Bungee Jump went one place better by finishing a creditable third in another warm race for her at Haydock. Our first winner in July also gave us our first jumps winner of the new season when Searching stayed on well under a strong ride from Danny McMenamin at Market Rasen, that's Searching third handicap hurdle win from his last 6 NH starts. Back on the flat Derek Le Grand built on the promise of his Leicester run by finishing an excellent second at Windsor not beaten far. Then we had a fantastic day at Bath with a DOUBLE in consecutive races. First, Hollie Doyle gave Port Noir an absolute peach of a ride to get home on the line and make it two out of three for Port Noir. Then Megan Nicholls gave Air of York a lovely ride to win for Lynn and Dave Cullimore and give them their first winner with GHR. Congratulations! The month ended with Air of York running another fine race to come third at Bath, Derek Le Grand ran another promising race when fifth at Windsor the same position as Field Exhibition finished at Bangor on her return to hurdling after a heavy fall on her previous run. As I always say, GHR really is a team effort with everyone contributing to the success of the yard, so thank you for all your hard work and commitment. For Owners, I am completely aware how challenging and frustrating the current situation is and I am incredibly grateful for your patience and continued support. I was pleased to see that the BHA are set to increase prize money at all levels from the start of September, but it is also important that as soon as possible Owners have access to trainers and jockeys before and after the race. Thank you, stay safe.
JUNE 2020.
And we are back with a bang! Our first runner after the resumption was superstar Bungee Jump who cruised to a fantastic win at Newmarket. I said last month we 'couldn't wait' to see her back on turf and I hope some of you took the hint and backed her at 33/1. Scobie and Candy, Bungee's owners were very keen to get some 'Black Type' for this valuable mare and they were successful when Bungee finished 2nd in a Listed race at Goodwood on her next run! The winners keep coming and our next visit to the winner's enclosure was Port Noir at Chepstow. This was a particularly satisfying win as it gave owners Terry and Rob their first win at GHR and hopefully there will be many more. Then yet another winner when ultra-consistent Mabo came with a superb late run to grab the spoils right on the line at Kempton. The previous week Mabo had finished an unlucky second at Wolverhampton and Paul and Ann have had 3 wins and a further 7 places in the last 12 months from this lovely gelding. Obviously, we are delighted to have the horses in such good form but its brilliant that three different sets of owners have had winners. It was also lovely to see the return of dear old Grams and Ounces, I'm sure there's another win in him sometime. Nearly Famous made an encouraging return at Chepstow and beautiful Boutan ran better than her placing at Windsor, while Searching ran pleasingly after an 8-month layoff. Now it's time for the jumpers to keep up the good work and we will be having runners within the next week or two. Please keep monitoring the GHR facebook page for latest news, details of runners and photos of your favourite horses. Good luck, stay safe.
MAY 2020
Almost 11 weeks after racing in the UK was suspended, we welcome the resumption in June. Although it wasn't officially confirmed until 30th May, the indications were that it would be given the 'green light'. As I said last month, we had taken the positive decision to get the flat horses ready to start running from 1st June and given the high number of entries it would appear we weren't alone!
Our first four declarations were unfortunately balloted out but I am pleased that superstar Bungee Jump is running at Newmarket on Thursday, it will be her first run on turf since she won at Chepstow last year and we can't wait!!
These last couple of months have been worrying and frustrating for everyone, but especially our Owners. Again, I must put on record my thanks to all the Owners at GHR, not only for your continued support but for your patience. Now racing is back I appreciate how galling it is to make an entry, declare and then find out you can't get a run. Hopefully as June progresses there will be more opportunity and we will get more runners. The confirmation that Chepstow has been allowed to race is fantastic news. They have several summer meetings, the first
on 15th June. The BHA have taken an understandably very cautious approach to the resumption, this includes who can attend the race meetings. At present owners are not permitted to attend but I understand that the BHA will be looking to change this as soon as safely possible.
The flat horses have done really well over the last couple of months and we couldn't be happier, the jumpers are also coming together very nicely and again we took the decision to get them ready for an early July return. Fingers crossed! Please visit the GHR Facebook page to get regular photos and videos of the horses....even Paddy wasn't going to be left out!!
Thank you to everyone associated with GHR for helping us through these difficult times....particularly my Mum for the support you continually give me and your expertise in filling out all these new forms to comply with the BHA's protocols!!
APRIL 2020
Difficult times for everyone. We are fortunate that our location is so isolated and therefor staying within the Government's guidelines has been achievable and we have taken all necessary precautions. We have also taken the opportunity to completely steam clean and disinfect the boxes, along with doing general painting where required.
The horses are doing really well and we are very happy with them. We have been posting regular photos and videos on the Grace Harris Racing facebook page so that their progress can be seen. At the time of writing none of us know when any form of racing will resume and in what format or even where it might be. Hopefully the picture will become clearer when the Government issue an update on the 'lockdown' on or around
7th May. At present we will have at least 10 horses ready to run when the flat resumes, I just hope the race planners give us the opportunity and the races to run in. As for the NH, we know the earliest resumption date is
1st July and we have put an individual plan in place for each horse so that we will be ready from day one should racing take place then.
Once again I do need to say how much I appreciate and thank our Owners for their support and their patience. The team at GHR are, as always, doing an amazing job. Thank you all so much. Stay safe everyone.
MARCH 2020
Just a handful of runners this month for obvious reasons. Air of York ran another good race at Wolverhampton running on well again to take 4th and The Garrison running better than his 5th place would suggest at Taunton.
For everyone working in and/or connected to racing the 'shutdown' has been difficult. Whether racing could have continued behind closed doors has been a discussion point since the decision was taken. Racing is still going ahead in other countries and it will be interesting to see whether France decide to resume racing in April. Here at GHR we are hoping that racing resumes in the UK in May, whether it's behind closed doors or as suggested on a regional basis we WILL be ready. I really need to to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to all my fantastic owners, you have been enormously supportive during this period of uncertainty. The team at GHR are the best, they have done whatever it takes to ensure the well being of the horses and their commitment is unreal.
To everyone involved in racing - stay healthy. To my owners, my team, my suppliers, to our supporters and followers - be healthy, take care and thank you!
FEBRUARY 2020.
The weather took its toll on NH racing during February and it was so disappointing that Newbury was abandoned on the last day of the month.Racing Club horse Karakoram looked to have an outstanding chance to win his second race of the season after a very promising close up 3rd at Warwick earlier in the month. 'Kenny' has proved a great acquisition for the Racing Club having been in the first 3 on 6 of his 7 runs this season and was only out of the frame on one occasion when finishing 5th at Lingfield due to the atrocious ground. We will look for another suitable opportunity when Racing Club members can enjoy another exciting days racing.
Air of York must be the unluckiest horse in the yard after yet another encouraging run at Wolverhampton and finishing a running on 4th after once again being hampered during the race, this time just after the start. Air of York has won a remarkable 12 races in his career and 'lucky' number 13 cannot be far away!
The month ended positively for GHR with us building an additional 6 new boxes to accommodate a mixture of new arrivals and those horses coming back in after a well earned break. It's very rewarding to see the stable expand after such a successful 2019, although trying to find the required additional staff is a continual challenge, but it's a challenge we are grateful to have.
JANUARY 2020
The New Year got of to a very encouaging start with Racing Club horse Karakoram finishing a really pleasing second at Plumpton behind a very well handicapped horse in Lightly Squeezed who was winning for the third time over the Chrismas period and is now rated 137. "Kenny" followed that up with another lovely second at Taunton again behind what looks a nicely treated horse. On both occassions Karakoram ran on strongly from the second last and another win cannot be far away. There is always room for more Racing Club members at a very affordable cost so why not give me a ring and be part of a winning team!
On the All Weather, Air of York ran two excellent races finishing well to take fourth and fifth at Wolverhampton and Kempton respectively and looks like a future winner. It was fantastic to see the reappearance of our star filly Bungee Jump who showed she still retains all her early speed by leading until just over 1f out at Kempton after her 140 day break. I'm sure she will give her owners some amazing days this season.
Finally huge conratulations to Head Girl Chrissy(and my brother Josh) who made me an Auntie to a beautiful baby girl! Needless to say that Chrissy, the day after giving birth, was back at the stables!! Everyone at GHR sends all our best wishes.
DECEMBER 2019
A month that saw The Garrison run some nice races, notably when third at Leicester and 4th at Hereford. Field Exhibition was running a super race in a Newbury listed event when unluckily unseating Ben Jones at the last and losing out on some 'black type'. She went on to take her chance in the Welsh Grand National but unfortunately it wasn't her day. Nevertheless is was an amazing day out and we were extremely well looked after by team at Chepstow racecourse. This was a massive achievement for us all, as it was only a year ago she we bought her out of a claimer rated 102!
2019 turned out to be GHR's best ever year with 13 winners( Bungee Jump x3, Field Exhibition x3, Mabo x2, Searching x2 and one win each for Mooroverthebridge, Glamorous Crescent and GHR Racing Club's Karakoram). We also exceeded our previous prize money total by over £37,000. Moreover 35% of all the stable runners finished in the first four places, an increase again of the 31% in the previous year.
These results could not have been achieved without the support of a wonderful group of owners and everyone at GHR would like to thank you for that support. On a personal note I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of the team at GHR, their dedication is the root of our success.
I would like to wish everyone associated with GHR a very Happy New Year, the Owners, the team, our friends and those who support us through the good times and the not so good times.
NOVEMBER
It was an unlucky 13 for Grace Harris Racing in November. Of the 13 runners we had during the month the best placing was the Racing Club's Karakoram who finished a very good third at Warwick before finding the heavy ground against him next time at Lingfield. Searching found the rise in the handicap and again the heavy ground against him and will now have a break until Spring.
Last month the difficult decision was taken to retire stable favourite Paddy The Oscar. Not only is 'Pads' a stable favourite but he also built up a huge fan base and proved an amazing purchase for Billy and Deb Lawton and my Mum Michelle. Bought for just £600 Pads ran 34 times, winning 5 times and finishing in the first four a further 14 times and amassed over £36,000 in prize money. He got on particularly well with Conor Ring and it was such a shame that Conor was not available for his last two runs. Pads is retired healthy and in good spirits and will remain in the yard to help the younger horses along. Thank you Pads for giving us all so much fun!
GHR were well represented at the second Welsh Racing Awards held at Chepstow racecourse at the end of November. It was lovely to see so many of our Owners and friends there supporting GHR. Bungee Jump was nominated for 'Best Flat Horse' - Scobie and Candy Davies were nominated for 'Owner of the Year'. Sadly neither was successful on the night but it was a tremendous accolade to be acknowledged and nominated. Head Girl Chrissy was once again nominated for the 'Stable Staff Award' and rightly so. Although pipped for the trophy Chrissy was rewarded as one of the 'runners up' and was presented with a gift card which might come in useful sometime in February!! And it is with great pride to report that I was presented with a special Award for 'Outstanding Training Performance 2019' for Field Exhibition. 'Flo' has won four times for us and has risen from a handicap mark of 102 to 134 in the 12 months we have had her. Whist I was presented with the award, it really is an award for the team at GHR and special mention with thanks goes to Lis who has developed a fantastic relationship with Flo. Field Exhibition has been entered in the Welsh Grand National and everyone in the stable has their fingers crossed that we are lucky enough to get a run!
And finally I will be at
Ascot Sales on Monday 9th December, so if you would like to buy someone special a very special Christmas present or just want to treat yourself then please contact me and hopefully we can find a horse to suit, whatever your budget may be.
OCTOBER:
What an incredible month with us sending out 5 winners. Mabo wins again on the flat, Racing Club horse Karakoram wins at Ludlow, Searching wins at Exeter and then along with Field Exhibition gave GHR our first ever NH double 5 days later. Mabo continues to run well with two places and a very cosy win at Kempton under Rossa Ryan. After two good runs over hurdles Searching won at Exeter by 10 lengths and we decided to run him again quickly under a penalty before he got reassessed. Luckily (for once) it paid off winning again at Hereford where Field Exhibition gave GHR and owner Carl Johnston a fantastic double. We ran 'Flo' quickly under her penalty but over an inadequate trip, she ran well and finished a creditable second. The month finished on a high with the Racing Club's Karakoram winning very easily at Ludlow and building on his encouraging return where he finished third. 'Kenny' will be giving Racing Club members some good days racing over the next few months and there is always room for more members to join.
At the start of the year I set two targets for GHR, to have at least 14 winners and win £100,000 in prize money. Currently we are on 13 winners but I am pleased to say that we have already smashed through the prize money target and there are still two months to go!!
I would like to thank all the Owners that have supported GHR, it's been our best year to date and my thanks also go to the hard working team at GHR without whom this success could not be achieved(especially my Mum!).
SEPTEMBER:
A good month started brilliantly with stable Superstar Bungee Jump winning at her beloved Chepstow. This was her third win of the season (all at Chepstow) and this terrific filly has proved to be a wonderful claim by Scobie and Candy Davies winning 4 times with numerous placings at some of the top tracks in Britain and Ireland. She will now have a well earned break.
The ultra consistent Mabo wins his first race for Paul and Ann de Weck winning decisively at Ffos Las and this was followed by a good second at Bath. He is certainly repaying Paul and Ann for all the patience they have had with him!! There were other good performances in the month with Glamorous Crescent and Port Noir being placed on the flat and Searching over jumps.
AUGUST:
A number of runners on the flat and although no winners several horses, Mabo, Port Noir, Just Glamorous, Bungee Jump and Mooroverthebridge ran with real credit getting placed without getting their head in front. Over jumps Field Exhibition made a winning reappearance at Newton Abbot having her first chase run for us. The break seems to have done her good. Simon the Great ran two pleasing races, just getting beaten by a neck at Worcester before finishing third at Fontwell but only a length behind the winner. New recruit Searching made his stable debut finishing a nice second at Newton abbot in a competitive 16 runner handicap.
JULY:
A quiet month with only flat runners. The month started out with a nice third for Tallys Son at Windsor. Glamorous Crescent achieved two good place efforts at Chepstow and July ended with a really good run from Mabo finishing second at Ffos Las at 33/1 just being beaten by a well fancied horse.
June 2019
It has been a busy month for us, with some great results. Bungee Jump came back to form with a bang, when winning at chepstow in the same race she won last year, which made for a great day, as we nearly had a double, with Glamorous Crescent finishing a close 2nd on her second. Just Glamorous made a lovely start for us when we took him to goodwood, where he got beat on the line by a nose, after leading all the way, as much as this was a huge disappointment for us not to win, I was over the moon for him to come back to form after losing his way last season. We then headed to Epsom on Derby Day for the Dash, it was a boiling day and a huge crowd. Just Glamorous ran a gallant race to finish 11/19 but only beaten just over 2 lengths, on ground a little to firm for him, however it was a great experience and privilege to have a runner at the meeting. We also headed to Cheltenham tattersalls sales and managed to purchase a lovely horse for some owners, and we look forward to seeing him on the track in the autumn. Anyway, after that little update I best get back to work as just arrived at Wolverhampton!
April 2019
So the months are flying by, and we have kicked the new turf season off this weekend with the famous Doncaster meeting. We are very busy getting all our flat horses, fit and ready, to return to the racecourse. We have some lovely horses to go to war with this summer, and there is a great buzz in the yard. New recruits include, Just Glamorous who holds the track record in France over 5f, Glamorous Crescent and Mabo, with the return of Bungee Jump, Tallys Son, Little Anxious to name a few, makes the forthcoming season very exciting. However, on the other hand, the national hunt season has been very frustrating, with the lack of rain, and no soft ground around, a few of our jumpers have barely had any races, including our champion veteran Paddy The Oscar, who needs to have juice in the ground, but he is well and happy which is the main thing. On the good side Field Exhibition has been a super claim and kept the team going when the flu dilemma started, and new vaccination rules were bought in, luckily for us, we had a 5 day gap before her's run out. So with this in mind, we entered for the feature race at Musselburgh, and took her on the long jaunt, with only 3 in the race we knew it would be a tricky run race, but she pulled out all the stops and won comfortably. Over the last few weeks we have had very few runners, but are looking forward to a busy time in the coming weeks, kicking off tomorrow with Field Exhibition going to Ludlow in the 4:25 with Danny Mcmenamin taking the ride. Then Friday we head to Leicester with our first turf runner of the season, Little Anxious runs in the 2:30, and at Wolverhampton Folies Bergress runs in the 7:30, where hopefully she can build on her good 4th last week. We have several entries over the weekend with Boutan, Maguire's glen, Karakoram at chepstow and Field Exhibition and Maguire at ffos las on Sunday. Here's hoping we have some luck!
************
January 2019
HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone, even if it is a little late! Things are ticking along a nicely here at grace harris racing. Our horses seem to be running to form, and are knocking on the door, with some big priced place horses, which cheered some of my owners up! Boutan ran a lovely race, after having nearly a year off to finish a close 3rd, at 50/1 at Warwick, under a lovely ride from Mikel Hamil, she has come out of the race well and will head to Uttoxeter next Saturday. Another massive priced place was Karakoram, our club horse, who race a super race to finish 3rd at Ffos Las at a 150/1, much to the delight to the racing club, who had to have little bet on him!! He was given a lovely patience ride by Liam heard, and I am very pleased with how he is making the change from the flat to jumps. Hopefully there will be more to come from him in the future when handicapping.
However our stable star at the moment has to be Field Exhibiton, who we claimed from a Ludlow claimer beginning of December, she went on to win comfortably on her yard debut, in a handicap at Uttoxeter giving us our christmas winner, she has ran some good races since, at Chepstow she finished a close 3rd under champion jockey Richard Johnson, despite going up 9lb for her win. She will head to Ludlow next Monday in a mares handicap hurdle.
We are pleased to welcome Keelan Baker on to the team, where he will be our apprentice jockey, he has had 2 winners so far from 50 rides, and we look forward to the season ahead, where his 7lb claim will be a help to us, and we hope we have some success together.
Our stable star Paddy the Oscar turned 16 in January, despite his age, he is still showing plenty of enthusiasm for the game, and hopefully he will be out soon when the rain comes, as it's been a frustrating time for our soft ground horses, but we are all in the same boat, and no doubt when it starts raining it won't stop!
We have a few horses for sale, which can be split in to shares, so please don't be afraid to give me a ring for a chat to see what is available. We also have our club which is proving popular, for a one of payment.
Anyway I hope you enjoy looking at our website, and catching up on news. Let's hope some winners are just around the corner.
************
Again apologies for such a slow update on here, the weeks seem to fly by so quickly, I cannot believe it is nearly December. We have had a quiet time of it recently with very few runners, this is due to the change over from the turf horses, to the jumpers, but with no rain around we are just waiting patiently for the weather to change! Most people's nightmare is rain, but I would be delighted! The horses seem in great order, and our turf horses who have done us proud over the summer, are enjoying a well earned rest. We have a few in to run on the all weather as well, so we are set for a busy winter. The evergreen veteran PADDY THE OSCAR is in full swing, and ready for the season ahead, he will aim to go to Warwick on the 13th December, for his first race of the season, at 15 years old, he just amazes me with how much love he has for the game, he is always neighing and pawing the ground to get tacked up first, to get out on the gallops. I'm so lucky to have him, and he is a joy to train. Our other old boy, GRAMS AND OUNCES is enjoying a well earned break, out in the field, along with our sprinting queen BUNGEE JUMP, I cannot wait to see what next season holds for her.
Yesterday we had our club horse MAGUIRES GLEN, having his first run on the season, at Cheltenham of all places! I couldn't of chose a stiffer task for him, but I knew the ground would be safe for him, as he needs softer ground ideally. Anyway he ran a nice race and came home safe just getting tired at the end, he will definitely come on for the race, and we look forward to see him out again, when the rain comes. It was such a lovely day tho, as the owners and trainers hospitality is fantastic, including a 3 course meal and afternoon tea over looking the paddock.The shopping village is also a must see!
We went to Ascot Sales last week, and bought 2 new horses, who have settled in great, one Is called NEARLY FAMOUS from Jessica Harrington, she will be a dual purpose horse for us. The other horse is called Tuscany from Paul Coles yard, and will be aimed at the all weather.
With Christmas fast approaching, we have several gift ideas, ranging from as little as £70, for OWNER FOR THE DAY, to the racing club starting at £299,to SHARES in horses, or SOLE OWNERSHIP if you wanted to spoil a certain someone or yourself!
We have also had new members join the team, and a special member leave - after a wonderful 18 months Hannah Deakin, left to be a dental nurse, we wish her all the best, and look forward to her riding out on the weekends still. However, we welcome Cameron Iles to the team, after moving back from newmarket, where he was based with George Scott, we are excited to help him get his jockey license, and watch his future, also Lisette Davies has joined us, and has worked at many of the top yards, Lis is a real asset to our yard and we are lucky to have her.
So I must apologise for the lack of updates on here recently. It has been rather a busy time. I hope all of you have been enjoying the sunshine, it has resulted in us starting early to mke sure the horses are ridden before the heat and the flies wake up!!
But we are all coping and lots of cold showers seem to keep the horses happy. We also feed them plenty of electrolytes with this heat to keep them hydrated. It has been a bit frustrating awith some of our horses needed slower ground so we have had to back them off and keep them ticking over until the rain arrives.
However, we have had a good time of late with Grams And Ounces getting his head back in front at Ffos Las last month, travelling strongly and staying on well. He has been a fabulous servant for us and heads to Newton Abbot on Monday where he will try a step up in trip to 2m 5f for this Handicap Hurdle.
It was lovely to see my first winner come back to form as Living Leader, who has had a few niggling injuries, bounced back and showed a great attitude in getting back up to win at Chepstow by a neck. Both him and Grams And Ounces have won 7 races each for us, I'm sure they are in competition with each other of who can win the most!!
Another solid run from our ever consistant 3yo Bungee Jump who went to Windor for a competitive 0-95 sprint handicap with Champion jockey Sylvestre De Dousa on board. He was the ultimate professional and a lovely guy to dael with and gave her a great ride but unfortunately just got beat to finish 2nd by an improving colt trained by Clive Cox.
On other news, our filly Bridgefullofdreams {pictured}, who is a half sister to Mooroverthebridge, made her debut last week and ran a lovely race to finish 5th. She has come on a lot for the race and hopefully learnt a lot. She is sure to be a fun horse and is FOR SALE to stay in the yard. Please don't hesitate to contact me for more information, she is £6,000 and can be split into shares.
I have been watching Glorious Goodwood and dreaming of the day we have a runner there, the highlight for me so far has been Lil Rockerfeller who was so tough and just out galloped his rivals under a masferful ride from Silvestre, Also Battaash who tore his field apart to win by 4 lengths and was pretty impressive.
Our jumpers are all back in now and all look great albeit a bit fat! They are currently doing steady canters and road work and we look forward to the jumps season starting again soon.
We have an Open Day coming up at the end of August for current owners and prospective owners, please don't hesitate to get in touch if you would like us to e-mail you more details. Anyway I will try and update my blog a little sooner next time!!
-------------------------
Stable visit took place on Saturday
We held our latest Racing Club stable visit on 28 July when members came along to see the Club horses plus horses from the yard on the gallops. Living Leader finished 5th at 9/1 at Chepstow on Friday night and Berry De Carjac was racing at Salisbury that night so neither were working on the gallops that day so members saw recent newcomers to the yard, Bridgefullofdreams {right} and Yet Another working on the gallops and they are pictured below after the workout.
Berry De Carjac finished an excellent 3rd at 100/1 at Salisbury that night.
---------------
Stable visit set for Saturday for our Racing Club
We have a stable visit for our Racing Club members on Saturday morning 28 July at 9.15am. If not yet a member but interested in joining and you would like to come along and see the Club horses, Living Leader, Maguire's Glen and Berry De Carjac and meet me and the team please text Club Manager Martin on 07763741735 or at his e-mail address shown on the Club website www.graceharrisracingclub.co.uk.
Two of the Club horses have entries over the weekend. Living Leader is entered in the Chepstow 5.50 on Friday with Berry De Carjac entered in the Salisbury 7.45 on Saturday night.
-----------------
Another winner for the Grace Harris Racing Club
Our Racing Club had another winner at Chepstow on 13 July as Living Leader gets a well deserved win after a few near misses when staying on in good style under Hollie Doyle over the straight mile at our local track.
Hollie brought him through to challenge three furlongs out and he stayed on in determined style to repel the challenge of Air Of York.
We wondered if we had seen the best of Living Leader after a disappointing run last time out but he dispels these thoughts with yesterday's win.
He becomes the third different horse to win for the Club and is pictured below entering the winners enclosure being led in by head girl Christina Berry.
---------------------
Christina wins the charity race at Newton Abbot
A memorable day for our Head Girl Christina Berry on 6 July 2018 as she had her first win in the charity race at Newton Abbot under our new Club Horse Berry De Carjac.
Christina has raised a magnificent total of £1,172.70 at today's date for Racing Welfare and rode a superb race, sitting in behind the pacemaker then hitting the front as the field entered the straight and pulling clear for a decisive win. A day we will never forget in the yard. A selection of photos from an exciting day are below.
Additional horse added to our Racing Club
We have increased the number of Club horses to three with Berry Du Carjac added to Maguire's Glen and Living Leader. Between the three they have won 12 races on the flat, hurdles and fences. If interested in joining the Club please contact me or see the Club website www.graceharrisracingclub.co.uk.
Membership starts from the day you join, it's £299 for 6 months or £499 for 12 months, longer periods available.
Grams And Ounces wins again
Grams And Ounces went to Ffos Las on 21 June for a 2m 4f Handicap Hurdle and yet again defies his 11 years with another victory travelling nicely throughout and moving to the front as the field came down the straight and held of a late challenge under an excellent ride from Micheal Nolan.
No wonder I love this horse who always gives his best and despite being at the veteran stage, continually outshines his younger rivals.
---------------------
***Full or part time rider required***
We are looking for a confident rider to join our small friendly yard. Must be a good team member and capable with youngsters and breakers. Please ring me for more information.
---------------------
Magical May
Well what can I say, this month has certainly been a special one! We have had 5 winners, but what makes it even more special is 3 of the horses have been with us from the start when they were unraced, unbroken babies, so to see them progress has been very rewarding.
We started off with our filly Mooroverthebridge, winning a 0-60 sprint handicap at Bath under Oshin Murphy in very nice fashion, and then on the same day we had Faint Hope running who went on to win a 0-120 handicap hurdle at kempton, his first start in handicap company. Although the track didn’t suit him, he battled well and showed a great attitude to get up and win by a length and a half.
Mooroverthebridge then headed to Salisbury a week later in the shadwell apprentice sprint handicap. After a late jockey change to Theodore Ladd, she bounced out the stalls and made virtually all to win again. Unfortunately we tried to gain the hatrick with her, and took her to Lingfield, but due to the rain coming at the wrong time and the ground turning slippery which she did not like, she ended up finishing 5th. She will have a well earned break and will be back soon.
We also had another double 2 weeks later, and it was at our home track Chepstow, which made for a brilliant day. Tally’s Son who was having his first run back for 6 months, was sent off at 66/1 for the 0-70 1 mile handicap, he was given a fantastic confident ride by Cameron Noble making all from the front, rallying back after getting headed in the last furlong to win by a head. He has definitely strengthened and matured with time, and we hope he can keep improving.
Bungee Jump was not going to let him get all the praise as she put up a great performance to make all in the 0-85 sprint, again under Cameron Noble, and won by 4 lengths. She has been a terrific claim, and keeps improving, the future looks very bright for her.
On other news i went to Doncaster Sales last week, and although it was a very competitive sale I did manage to purchase a lovely chestnut mare called Asking A Lot, for Sue Maine. We are very happy with her and will start her off in novice hurdles over the summer. We also had another new recruit arrive, Red Devil’s Lad, he was once a very smart horse but has lost his way. We will see if we can get him back to form after he has 6 weeks out on nice grass.
We are also pleased to welcome 2 new owners to the yard this month as well.
So onwards and upwards!
------------------------------
SECOND DOUBLE IN MAY FOR THE YARD
The flying form of the yard continues with a second double this month as Tally's Son and Bungee Jump win at Chepstow on 22 May 2018.
Tally's Son returned from an absence of 202 days to make most for victory over the straight mile at 66/1 under Cameron Noble. He broke well and led to inside the final furlong before being headed but then battling back for a head victory.
An hour later Bungee Jump made all under Cameron for a 1 3/4 length victory over the straight 6 furlongs.
Bungee Jump is pictured below in the winners enclosure.
In Tally's Son's race, our Racing Club horse Living Leader finished a creditable 6th at 25/1 whilst Berry Du Carjac was unplaced in a 12f Handicap having led to 3 out before tiring on what was his first run after his break.
We have shares available all year round in our Racing Club so if you're interested in having a share in a horse with us for a one off payment starting off at £299 for 6 months, please get in touch, full details of the Club website www.graceharrisracingclub.co.uk. Contact Club Manager Martin if you have any questions.
---------------------------
MOOROVERTHEBRIDGE WINS AGAIN
We had a winner and a third from just two runners this week.
On Thursday, Mooroverthebridge followed up her Bath win with victory at Salisbury under Theodore Ladd. He is pictured below in the winners enclosure.
Whilst on 15 May 2018, Grams And Ounces finished 3rd at 10/1 at Chepstow in the concluding race on the card under Trevor Phelan.
He is pictured below entering the winners enclosure after the race.
---------------------------------
BANK HOLIDAY DOUBLE FOR THE YARD
Mooroverthebridge built on her Windsor 4th with a convincing victory under Oisin Murphy at Bath at 3/1 on Bank Holiday Monday 7 May 2018. She is pictured below along with a photo of the presentation to her happy owners.
We still have a 25% share in her, if interested, please get in touch with me as soon as possible.
The day got even better a few hours later as Faint Hope made it a double on the day for the yard with a 1 1/2 length win at Kempton under Liam Heard in a 2m 5f Handicap Hurdle to make it another memorable day for the yard. He is pictured below on the right, jumping the last before going on for victory.
-----------------------
Well that's the National Hunt season over for a few days! I thought Sandown did a fantastic job of putting on a great meeting to end the season and it was so lovely to see so many retired stars of jump racing parading.
We were very pleased to end up in the top 150 trainers in the jumps championship and I hope each year to keep improving and growing.
We had a nice end to the season with Maguire's Glen winning at Ffos Las over fences for the first time of asking after 9 months in the yard.
Our other star Grams And Ounces ran a creditable second at Towcester on unsuitable ground due to it raining the whole day. We will be mixing the turf abd hurdels with him over the summer.
After a long season for the winter boys, they are all happy to be turned out for the summer holidays. So that can only mean one thing, we turn our head to the turf flat season and summer jumping.
We have made a great start to the turf, with our two lovely fillies, running well at big odds of 66/1 and 25/1. Bungee Jump went to Bath and led all the way but just got closed down at the end by Mick Channon's improving 3yo and finished 2nd at 25/1. Mooroverthebridge, having her first start back after a six month break, finished 4th of 16 at Windsor at 66/1 beaten only 1 3/4 lengths.
We are excited for the season ahead for these two, Bungee Jump heads to the Chester May Festival next Wednesday and Mooroverthebridge heads to Bath next Monday. There is a 25% share in Mooroverthebridge , so if you are looking for a a fun ready to run filly who is sure to be in the winners enclosure soon, please contact me for more information.
A quiet week on the racing front with just one runner at Kempton last night, our Racing Club horse Living Leader who took part in the 8.45 race over a mile with Jonathan Fisher taking the ride, unfortunately the draw did us no favours. We will know look for something on the turf for him.
Hope everyone enjoys the Bank Holiday and the sunshine shines as forecast.
----------------------------------
On 21 April, we held the latest stable visit for our Racing Club where members saw Living Leader working on the all weather gallops and Maguire's Glen who looked a picture as you can see below,
Both will have entries next week, Maguire's Glen is entered at Chepstow on Friday night in the 5.50 race with Living Leader to be entered at Salisbury on Sunday 29 April.
Maguire's Glen the top pictured with Living Leader below. Shares are available all year round for a one off payment as your membership starts from the day you join, see our Club website www.graceharrisracingclub.co.uk for more information. Contact me or Club Manager Martin if you have any questions.
-----------------------------
On Friday 20 April. Bungee Jump finished 2nd at Bath at 25/1 under Cameron Noble. He is pictured below in the winners enclosure with his delighted owner.
-------------------------------
Our Racing Club had it's first winner on 1 April 2018 after numerous placed runners when Maguire's Glen won at Ffos Las at 9/4 under Mikey Hamill. He is pictured below entering the winners enclosure and with happy Club members Ryan and Michele.
-------------------------
Grams and Ounces returned to action at Towcester on 29 March 2018 and finished an excellent 2nd at 16/1 under Liam Heard.
He is pictured below in the winners enclosure after the race.
-------------------------
So it has been a while since my last blog so I do apologise about this!!
However, it has been very quiet on the racing front since January due to the wretched weather, we have had two lots of heavy snow and plenty of down pours of rain , so to say I will be glad to see the back of this winter is an understatement!!
I was so glad to see that Cheltenham managed to get the go ahead tho, and the weather was very good to them! I went for a day out on Gold Cup day and had a lovely time, the atmosphere is unreal, horses incredible and shops that make me want to rob a bank!!! My two stand out performances from the week were Presenting Percy and of course Native River, who put up an unbelievable front running performance. It has made me want to pursue my dream even more in the hope of training a Cheltenham Festival Winner. One day!
Anyway back to our yard, all the horses are in good form, it was lovely to welcome a new horse called Bungee Jump after one of our owners claimed her at Lingfield last week after winning her race in gutsy fashion. We are excited to see her run for us next week at Kempton or Lingfield, rated 76 and only a 3 year old, I hope she can give us plenty of fun.
From the young guns to the old ones, Paddy the Oscar ran another solid race on Friday at his favourite track Chepstow, unfortunately tho due to the weather, several (5) fences were omitted, this didn’t help us as jumping is what helps him, he finished 5th after just being tapped for toe on the long flat run in.
We had a lovely morning before racing on Thursday, where we welcomed Chepstow racecourse annual members, there was a good turn out and all the horses behaved! This week we are off to Ascot sales on Wednesday, and have a few marked off to look at, so anybody looking for a horse please get in touch!
We then have Grams and Ounces heading back to the track after a nice break, he runs at Towcester in the 2 mile hurdle.
Then on to the weekend where we have both club horses - Maguire’s Glen and Living Leader who are entered at Ffos Las on Sunday, Living Leader will be having a spin over hurdles to freshen him up ready for the new turf season. Maguire has an entry at Newton abbot on Saturday as well, both his races are handicap chases.
Anyway I will try not to leave the blog update so long next time!!
----------------------------
March has began with the beast from the east and heavy snow which has made it difficult for everyone but Grams and Ounces was still enjoying himself as he played in the snow as you can see below.
-------------------------
February has been a quiet month on the amount of runners we have had. However, we are still in front with prize money on last years totals, which as a team continuing to try and grow and improve we are going the right way.
We have had just a few flat runners where the races haven’t ended up being run to suit on the all weather, but hopefully, our luck will change soon!
The main highlight of this month so far has to be our stable veteran star, Paddy the Oscar, winning by an impressive 11 lengths at Chepstow. At 15 years young we are extremely proud of him, he jumped superbly throughout the 3 mile chase contest and led from start to finish. It was made even more special with the cheers and celebrations due to it being on our home track at Chepstow and will certainly be a day I won’t forget. I am happy to report that he has come out of the race well but is having a well earned freshen up and will be out in March again. He is pictured below in the winners enclosure.
It is a busy time of year for us with the turf flat horses all starting back cantering and preparing for the season ahead after their well earned winter break. I have 1 share left in MOOROVERTHEBRIDGE who I am very excited about so please do not hesitate to contact me about her should you be interested!
We are also happy to have Grams and Ounces back in from his winter break and he will switch from hurdles back to the flat now. We hope he can win as many as he did last year!!
On our National Hunt side we have a new horse in the yard, a novice hurdler U No Like who is pictured below and is own by The Beer Dreamers syndicate making his debut next Saturday 24th at Chepstow. Our Racing club horse Maguire's Glen has been schooling over fences where he jumped very well, we look forward to seeing him going chasing in the next few weeks whilst our other Racing Club horse Living Leader has an entry at Kempton next week.
----------------------
So I’ve been a bit slow on the latest blog, but I would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and successful new year.
We look forward to trying to improve on last years statistics, which were 9 winners, 13 seconds, 14 thirds, and 18 fourths.
We had 70 runners in NH races, 32 got in the first 4, a 45.7 percentage.
The horses are in great from at the moment, just very annoying that we
are having a spell of seconditus!! With Paddy the Oscar, Boutan,
Maguire’s glen, and Living Leader all finishing runner up recently!
Anyway on to this week, we have Stravinsky’s Flame running in her 2nd
bumper at Hereford on 16 January, we think she has strengthened and improved
from her first run.
On 18 January, we take Maguire’s Glen to Wincanton, in the first race, which is a 2 mile 5 furlong Handicap Hurdle and then on to Friday we have the superstar veteran Paddy the Oscar running at our local track Chepstow in the 3 mile chase.
We have just started to bring the flat horses back in to training after
there winter break, and they are all looking great, albeit a little fat
and fluffy!!
If you are looking for a new horse please take a look at MOOROVERTHEBRIDGE.
A Beautiful 4 year old filly Avonbridge x Spennymoor. She has shown a great attitude and ability in 3 Maidens finishing 5th,
4th and 3rd. Gaining a lovely mark of 59, she is one for the upcoming
season. Rosie has just come back in to training after enjoying her
winter break, she is available for a sole owner or 25% shares, so if you
are looking for a tough filly, who has an exciting future ahead of her,
please contact me on 07912359425.
Price £6000 1/4 share £1500
Very competitive training fees
Anyway hope you all have a good week.
------------------------------
Plenty of snow in the Shirenewton area recently as you can see below.
Left to right, Boutan, Paddy The Oscar, Dirty Dexter, Faint Hope
----------------------------
As Christmas draws upon us, I would just like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas a Happy New Year.
We have been trying extremely hard to get our tenth winner for the year
but we will have to wait until next weekend to try again. Nevertheless,
we have had some great runs and all the horses are running well and to
form.
Tally's Song and Living Leader ran at Wolverhampton, both ran brilliant races from terrible draws to finish 3rd.
We then headed to Hereford where our favourite veteran, Paddy the Oscar
took a disliking to the track and was pressed for the lead which didn’t
suit him. He finished 5th in the end but we are very happy to report he
is fine and heads to Warwick next week. Our
promising novice hurdler, Faint Hope, ran a lovely race to also finish
5th, in a very competitive novice hurdle.
Monday was a long journey to Plumpton, where luck was not on our side
from the start and we only just made it for the race due to traffic
problems everywhere we turned. Grams and Ounces was running a nice race
until he fell at the last hurdle, giving us all
a bit scare, but thankfully he got up and although sore he will be back
racing soon.
Thursday we took two to Towcester. Dirty Dexter {pictured below entering the winners enclosure} was having his first run
back after a break due to injury. He ran a very pleasing race and
showed plenty of promise on his return to finish 4th in the 3 mile
handicap hurdle.
We then had a newcomer, Stravinsky’s
Flame having her first run in the mares bumper. She was impeccably well
behaved, very professional on the track and ran a lovely race. Albeit
the Towcester hill just getting her at the end, finishing 10th of 14.
Finally today we travelled to Uttoxeter with two runners, Maguire’s Glen
was stepping up to 3 miles and was very unlucky to bump into a well
handicapped horse who just caught him on the run in for us to finish
2nd. He is still for sale and is a very consistent,
fun horse.
Onto our final runner of the week, the beautiful Boutan. She ran in the 2
mile novice handicap hurdle, where after discovering a few problems I
was interested to see if we had overcome them. By the looks of the way
she ran, where she finished a very good 2nd at 25/1behind an Irish raider it looks promising. She is pictured below in the paddock.
I would just like to thank all of my owners, staff, family and friends
who have supported me this year. Here’s to a happy, healthy and win
filled 2018.
-----------------------------
We got up this morning to the sight of snow as you can see below. Looks nice but makes the job twice as hard!
--------------------------
We had a busy week last week with some good results, firstly we had the brave veteran, Paddy the Oscar, at Exeter on Wednesday, where he was trying to get 2 wins in 7 days, unfortunately, we were just defeated by 3/4 of a length, to finish 2nd after a gruelling, testing, 3 miles, where only 3 of the 11 runners completed. He has a heart, as big as a lion, and we are all very proud of him. He is now having a few easy weeks, and will be aimed at his favourite track - Warwick on the 14th December.
On to Thursday, we headed to Taunton, where we had 3 runners, our day started brilliant with Faint Hope running a great debut race, in the novice hurdle, to finish 3rd at 50/1, he looks a promising horse for the future, and I am very excited by him, and what he is showing. Our day then turned went downhill spectacularly due to an error on head gear which resulted in Boutan being withdrawn, unfortunately mistakes do happen, and it is just frustrating a steward was not in the paddock to pre warn us, where we could of corrected this in order for her to run, but never the less the lesson has been learnt and I can assure you it won’t happen again!!
As if our day couldn’t get any worse, Berry de Carjac started off in the race and no further than the first fence did he fall, luckily he only suffered a nose bleed and is none the worse, and lives to fight another day! The ups and downs of racing hey!!!
We then had a busy weekend, with Grams and Ounces running at Uttoxeter, on Saturday, where unusually for him, he ran no sort of race, and just had an off day, however he has come out of the race well, and I’m sure he will bounce back to form next time.
Sunday was a very exciting day for us all, it was my first Cheltenham runner as a Licenced Trainer where we threw ourselves in the deep end to run at the November festival. Maguire’s Glen took centre stage in the conditionals race over 2m5f, he ran a brilliant race to be right in contention, and was leading around the home bend, unfortunately the tacky ground just stopped us quickening up the hill, but he ran all the way to the line, to finish 7th of 19.
The whole day was fabulous, and the way Cheltenham look after owners and trainers is amazing, I think a few other tracks should take note!!! A lovely three course lunch, table service, afternoon tea, great viewing and plenty of private bars, led to a very enjoyable day for all of us. Definitely a place I hope to be re visiting soon with more runners!
I also liked the way the course look after the horses after the race, with plenty of water and staff at hand to help wash horses off, lots of warm wash bays in the stables, and even a solarium on hand! Stable staff were all very well looked after too, with complimentary food and drink all day.
Anyway on to this week, a fairly quiet week, with Boutan running at our local track on Wednesday and Living Leader holding an entry at Wolverhampton on Saturday.
Enjoy your week everyone.
----------------------------
So we are busy getting horses fit for the forthcoming jump and all weather season, I am very happy with how they are all coming along.
We had an excellent day at Chepstow yesterday with our grand old servant Paddy the Oscar who is rising 15, won at our local track. He led from the front and dictated the whole way over 3 miles under a great front running ride from Conor Ring. He jumped fantastic and was a joy to watch, I was very glad that his loyal owners were there once again to cheer him home, we have had so many great days with him over the past few seasons, and he just keeps getting better. I will always have an extra soft spot for this horse, as he was my first runner as a licensed trainer, and has been such a great servant for us. He has an entry at Exeter next Wednesday to try and defy the handicapper, but we will see how he is over the next few days. Pictures from the win are below.
On to another note tho, we have had a frustrating spell again with our all weather runners, they have all been balloted out this week, which makes it really hard on my part to keep the horses fresh and ready to run, but we will keep trying and hope we have a change of luck soon.
We have 2 entries, being Boutan and Grams and Ounces, entered on Sunday at Ffos Las both in the conditional handicap hurdle over 2 miles.
We have a busy week next week, on Wednesday we have Paddy the Oscar entered at Exeter and Thursday we have Faint Hope making his debut in the novice hurdle and Berry de Carjac in a 2 mile handicap where hopefully we will get some nice ground for them.
We are always looking for new owners and horses, so please do not hesitate to give me a ring, we offer very competitive prices but 5* care and facilities, we can also tailor packages for shares and syndicates.
Finally, as we all know Christmas is fast approaching, we are making calendars of all the horses here, so if you are looking for a present for a racing fan, please email me and we can order you one. We also have our racing club, at a one of payment of £299 for 6 months, which has 2 horses in at all times, and lastly, an ‘owner for the day’ vouchers which includes 2 tickets, lunch, coming in the paddock and meeting the jockey and hopefully back in the winners enclosure after!
Enjoy your week everyone.
--------------------------------
So on the racing front last week, it was very quiet with the all weather horses getting balloted out, which is so frustrating, the amount of entries that all weather races are getting is crazy at the moment with only 12 to 14 horses being able to run in each race.
Unfortunately it doesn’t give you much chance of getting a run unless your top of the handicap. I really think the sooner they bring reserves in the better, especially with 48 hour declarations on the flat, means often than not there are non runners in the races. Anyway enough of my moaning!!
We were then due to have Faint Hope running at Ffos Las on Saturday, but due to Storm Brian and heavy rain, we pulled him out due to it being only his 3rd race of his career and first this season we did not want to bottom him on heavy ground.
Yesterday we had 4 runners, 2 at Exeter and 2 at Kempton, unfortunately our good form and luck took a backward step.
At Kempton, the draw was not in our favour at all with either runner, Doctor Bong broke absolutely brilliantly but had to use to much gas up early on, and then got heavily bumped at the 2f pole, he was so badly hampered that Luke had to check him and stop riding but I’m pleased to report he is absolutely fine this morning. Living Leader was having his first run back for a few months and I was pleased how he finished after a poor draw, I'm sure he will be back in the winners enclosure soon.
At Exeter, Berry de Carjac took part in the 2mile amateur race, with Zak Baker riding, we tried different tactics due to it being different ground, but unfortunately after jumping and travelling well he was unable to quicken on the softer ground.
I was very hopeful of Maguire’s Glen as he seemed in great form, but for some reason he had an off day and didn’t turn up in any form, jumped well but didn’t travel like normal, he was pulled up as this wasn’t a true run from him and it was better to look after him and save for another day. That’s the trouble with horses you can’t predict for definite how they are going to perform, sometimes you just wish they could talk!! Anyway I’m pleased to say that today all the horses are fine after yesterday.
On to entries for the up and coming few days, we have plenty entered at Chepstow on Tuesday, Orthodox Lad, Grams and Ounces, Faint Hope and exciting new recruit to the yard Boutan!
We also have Tally’s Song entered at Wolverhampton on the same day, let’s hope she gets a chance to have a race.
That is all to report, for this week so far, but have a good week everyone.
Shares are available all year around in our Racing Club, see the Club website www.graceharrisracingclub.co.uk for details. Your share period starts on the date you join. We also have the Owner for the Day if looking for a special day out {see the page on this site}.
-------------------------------------
Well it's been a busy and slightly frustrating week here at GHR.
We started of the week with Mooroverthebridge who ran in her first handicap at Salisbury. She ran creditably, but there is more to come from her that's for sure, Oisin Murphy rode her and said she needs to be dropped back to 6f on the turf, having jumped so well, she had to lead as nothing went on with her, she was in front all the way till the last furlong, where she just tired a little as she had done all the donkey work, she finished 6th in the end.
It's lovely to see her progress from a barely broken 3 year old filly, to now! I can't wait for next turf season with her, but for now, we will give her a few more runs on the AW before her winter break.
We then headed to Exeter on Friday, with two runners, firstly Star Trouper ran in a handicap chase, unfortunately he pulled up, after having jumped brilliant, he suddenly stopped very quickly for some unknown reason, we took the decision to retire him from racing, as he is not that happy racing anymore, luckily for him, our head girl Chrissy, bought him off our owner Carl Johnston, he will be spoilt rotten and retrained as a riding horse.
Shortly after, we had our stable star, Grams And Ounces having his first run back over hurdles, after a successful campaign on the turf this summer, having won 3 times for us. He again ran his heart out, jumped great, looked like the winner turning in, but sadly a horse come from know where, and quickened away from us, we finished 2nd, but the winner is definitely a horse to follow, as first time blinkers seemed to do the trick with him, and I'm sure he has more up his sleeve.
Never the less, I was so proud of Grams yet again! He never fails, on keeping me and his syndicate happy!!
We then headed to our local track Chepstow on Saturday, with one runner, Paddy the Oscar, at the grand age of 14 looked incredible, his skin is like silk, he went and won Chrissy a £100 best turned out, in the race he took off very exuberantly at the front, and jumped impeccable, and sadly just bumped in to a horse on the up, 8 years his junior too, but he ran extremely well on his return from his summer break to finish 2nd, he is another horse that makes my job such a joy, as he has the biggest heart, and just adores racing. He is pictured below.
Then on to the night, we had one runner in a handicap over a mile at Kempton, Doctor Bong had been working very well at home and we were excited to try him on the AW, he jumped great out of the stalls, made the running, and galloped all the way to the line, but annoyingly just got caught late to finish 2nd!! So, it was frustrating to nearly hit the jackpot 3 times this week, but it is a nice feeling to know all the team is in good form, and I'm excited for the coming weeks.
However a terrible accident happened in the stables at Kempton on Saturday night, where a stable lad lost his life. All of our thoughts at GHR go out to his family, friends and colleagues. This just reiterates how dangerous our sport is, and we must never under estimate horses, and what they could do. Stable staff are the unsung heros of our job, and I think they deserve more respect than anyone, as they devote there lives to looking after all of our horses.
A relatively quiet week entries wise this week, with Tally's Son and Tally's Song entered at Kempton Wednesday and Faint Hope will be entered in the bumper at Ffos Las on Saturday. Enjoy your week everyone.
Well we have had a great start to the week with Maguire's Glen winning a handicap hurdle at Newton Abbot by 13 lengths under a great ride by conditional jockey Mikey Hamill. He had his ideal conditions of very soft ground and a step up in trip, which he thrived on.
The good news is that he has come out of the race very well, but unfortunately there are no suitable races for him before he is reassessed by the handicapper, so hopefully he’s not to harsh to him.
He is pictured below returning to the winners enclosure with Christina.
It was also a good day for another reason as we welcomed a new owner to the yard, who claimed a horse called Boutan out of the seller at Newton Abbot. She is a beautiful looking filly and has a lovely nature, she’s settled in well and we look forward to the future with her! I always like to set targets for the calendar year as it gives the team something to aim for. The target this year is to train 10 winners, and thanks to Maguire’s Glen on Monday, we are on 8 so far. Hopefully we can gain another 2 wins before the year ends!
Unfortunately that is all the racing we have this week, but we have time to catch up on the not so exciting jobs of clipping and sorting all the winter rugs out for the horses.
On to next week, so far we have Mooroverthebridge and Tallys Son entered at Salisbury on Monday. Fingers crossed for another good week!
