Wednesday 8 April

It could only have been a matter of inches, but Kikos was beaten into second today after travelling supremely well and jumping his rivals into the ground.That is of course until the last fence when Sam (by his own admission) made a cock-up and gifted the race to Battlefield from the Richard Lee yard. A good few members of the club turned out on what was a lovely day in Herefordshire, Kikos looked a picture in the paddock, and he was a worthy favourite. As mentioned he jumped and travelled very very well, it was exhibition stuff, and Sam was getting a right good tune out of him, long or short the horse was really operating and it was a joy to watch. Approaching the second last Kikos was 3 lengths clear and hard on the bridle, with the rest of the field under maximum pressure behind him. He was still 3 lengths clear approching the last, but this is where it unravelled for us - Sam, thinking he was further clear than he was let the horse run down the fence, he made an error, lost all momentum, and was passed by Battlefield. Kikos bravely battled on the inside and was in fact in front just after the line, but he wasn't where it counted! Sam was very apologetic, he knew he had cost us the race, but he made a split decision that went wrong, which I am afraid is what top sport is all about. Sam got it wrong, but he is young and inexperienced and will learn from the mistake, and to add insult to injury he was handed a 2 day ban after the race. Kikos seems fine after the run and lives to fight another day, which is the most important thing. Kikos will continue to run throughout the summer, so would members of the club please get in touch to confirm that they wish to continue their membership into the future, as the clib is due to dissolve in May. Kikos will be retained, prize-money will be allocated at the end of May and we will start again. One or 2 more shares will become availble after May 1st so anyone interested should get in touch.