Tuesday 14 December

Sorry for the lack of a recent update on this page, but for reasons that most of you will already be aware of, these lines have been very hard to write. I am, of course referring to the very sad loss of Robo at Cheltenham on Saturday. Robo was a little superstar - not over big, but all heart, and quite possibly one of the nicest horses you could ever meet. He had won both of his Novice Chases at Fakenham since his arrival at Fences Farm in August, and went to Cheltenham to show us just how good he was. It was a high class race,but he very much deserved to take his chance. Robo jumped and travelled soundly, and was running the perfect race when making a mistake at the water jump on the final circuit. He then made a bigger mistake at the next, but continued to run all the way to the line and finish fourth. It was only at this point that we realised something was amiss, as Domininc dismounted on pulling up. It quickly became apparent that Robo had suffered an injury, and we were all just hoping it was nothing serious. Unfortunately our hopes were shortlived as we could see that our little hero had over reached and cut into his front leg with his hind hoof, severing the tendon. The vets on the racecourse were first class, and Robo was bandaged and sedated and led from the course. We took him to the Three Counties Equine Hospital about 12 miles away where after further examinations the extent of injuries became clear, and it was considered an impossible position, and our boy was very sadly put down. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the vets and staff at the Three Counties practice who were top class, and assured us that our very difficult decision was the right one. Looking back at the race, it seems as though the injury occured at the water jump, which means that Robo ran for three quarters of a mile with a serious injury which make his run all the more amazing - what a tough little chap! Horses like him are rare - a wonderful attitude and huge ability. He never got to show everyone what he was really capable of, but his two wins at Fakenham were terrific. He was not with us long, but has left us with some wonderful memories, and will not be forgotten. R.I.P Robo, you little superstar.Thanks very much for all the texts, emails and calls we have received, it is nice to know that a lot of people thought as much of him as we did. And a big well done to Alice, who was with Robo on Saturday, and carried herself with great courage and dignity during a horrible afternoon.Our thoughts are also with all Mrs Robeson and the rest of her staff who have an empty stable to look at. A horse like him leaves a big hole in a small yard, but as ever we have to look to the future, and yesterday it was back to the races with Omaruru. I always feel that 'getting back on the bike' is the best medicine, and it was nice to welcome some new faces to the races yesterday. Omaruru ran a very good race to be third in a decent little race run in a good time. Jockey, Mark Bradburne was very complimentary about him and said he would win plenty of races, so we can look to the future with quite a bit of hope.There are still a very small number of shares left in Omaruru, so if you ant a Christams present with a difference give me a call on 07909 518902. Bobby Gee has entries this week - he will bypass Newbury tomorrow, but may go to Towcester on Thursday.