Tuesday 18 June

The first day of Royal Ascot, and round two of our ad campaign kicks into gear. We had a phenomenal result when we tested the water with a stand alone ad on Derby day, so we are expecting a busy week!! The Royal meeting is one of Racings great showcases of the year, and gets tremendous coverage throughout the media, for me there is too much on the TV coverage about the fashion and not enough about the horses, but we will be having a look non-the-less. To be there is something else - with some fantastic get togethers in the car parks both before and after racing. Sometimes the faces in the carparks make it look more like a Cheltenham meeting than Royal Ascot, with a whole host of National Hunt trainers, jockeys and agents all enjoying a summer afternoon and a bit of a 'Busmans holiday'. Mrs Robeson and her brother will be hoping to have 2 runners this week. On Thursday, Waila has an entry in The Ribblesdale, K Fallon rides. The Ribblesdale is known as the Ascot Oaks, and if she can overcome her lack of experience then she should go well. Fallon won a very decent fillies maiden on her in Sandown, and liked her very much, and with the form of the race working out well she should stand a decent chance, although it is interesting that stable jockey, Ryan Moore has chosen to ride Sir Michael's other runner in the race. On Friday, Hillstar has an entry - more about him later in the week. Yesterday Benefit Cut started back in work. He has left his summer quarters in the top field and is now closer to home. He will still live out for most of the day for now and be trained from the field, but it is good to have him back in harness - he looks to have a big future, and is another one who I can't wait to see back on the track. The plan with him would be to run in another small novice hurdle in September before possibly having a crack at a Listed race in Kempton in October. If we are happy with him after that then he will start his chasing career!! Don't forget the cricket match on June 28th - we will start at 6pm at Eversholt CC, and have a host of top National Hunt jockeys there to support and possibly play! There will be a hog roast and bar, and the proceeds will go to The Injured Jockeys Fund. Due to a 'retirement' we do have a playing place up for grabs - so if you fancy a game (bat or bowl or both) then give me a shout (07909 518902). New faces are always welcome.