Monday 18 February
They say that every cloud has a silver lining, and that was certainly the case on Saturday. Despite not getting the chance to go to Wincanton with San Telm (where incidently, I think he would have won), due to an unsatisfactory scope on Friday, we did get the chance to welcome two new faces to Fences Farm. Ermis and Emma picked a super morning for their first visit, and really enjoyed watching Tannerman do a lovely piece of work on the gallops. We are delighted that Ermis has chosen Nick Brown Racing as his first venture into National Hunt ownership (he has had shares in flat horses) and we wish him luck with his two - Tannerman and Tara Dancer! As I mentioned it was a pleasure to be at the top of the hill on Saturday, and it seems as though the horses enjoyed themselves as well, as they all worked very well. Benefit Cut caught the eye, and worked very well with Tannerman who also did a really good piece. Ogee seems in fantastic form, and went very well. Before breakfast Smart Exit cantered and The Fonz looked a handful, and is in particularly good form!! San Telm and Colebrooke just went for a hack around the farm as they are both off games for a few days, ST with a low grade infection and C with a slight problem behind the saddle. Both will be back on the go in a week or so! The recent spell of dry weather has meant that we were able to give Benefit Cut an entry for Wednesday in Doncaster and it looks like he will get the chance to go - it is a competitive affair but it will be another step in his education. he will qualify for a mark next week. We will watch the 4.30 from Sothwell closely today after a chat I had with the handicapper last week regarding Tannerman. He has put him up a pound and out of a grade he is yet to win in which I thought was harsh, but the handicapper thought was correct. This afternoon the horse that was second in the race (Tannerman 3rd) runs in Southwell, she was put up 5lbs so we will get an idea today if he was right. If she doesn't run to her revised mark there is a slight hope that he will drop Tannerman the 1 lb he put him up! Fingers crossed!
