Thursday 31 October

There has been a bit of a change around at Fences Farm. A couple of weeks ago dear little Grassfinch succumbed to her fragile legs, and was retired. Although only diminutive she was all heart and possessed a fair level of ability. She retires to stud on a rating of 124, and her foals will be a lot to look forward to. She made the trip to Mrs Robeson's Southcourt Stud earlier this week to begin her new career, but the lorry was not empty on it's return - back came four more including Cettis Warbler's first son Pine Warbler, and Mr Maynard who has come off of the flat. MM has been gelded and given a break and will now go novice hurdling. Unfortunately Norse Wren has also fallen foul of his families fragility and has suffered a small injury that will sideline him for a few months. Such a shame as he ran a lovely race over an inadequate trip in Huntingdon. The horse we were interested in yesterday went bang on it's predicted price and has joined Jonjo O'Neill to go juvenile hurdling - we will follow Markttag with interest. I always tend to 'stalk' a few 3 year olds through the summer, with a view to trying to get to one of the juvenile races at the Cheltenham Festival - and another of my targets goes through the ring next week - this one is likely to be less attractive to some - but I may have spotted something - I will try and buy him (for the right money)!!! Our weekend runners are all still on course for their appearances. Guest Of Honour will have a day out in Huntingdon, and Smart Exit looks like going to Plumpton on Monday, although he will have entries in Warwick and Chepstow in the middle of next week. He is in great form, and we will maximise his entries to find the best opportunity for him!