Wednesday 18 December

Fakenham really is our lucky track!! And San Telm added to our impressive tally at the Norfolk track yesterday!! In beautiful sunshine, ST took his chance in the handicap chase, and went off the very well backed 5/2 favourite. ST's jumping had been a bit slow and ponderous on his chasing debut in Uttoxeter in November but he had been found to be unwell afterwards, and the manner of his jumping was put down to him being uncomfortable. After a circuit of Fakenham yesterday it seemed that that was not the case. Once again he was very deliberate, and struggled to get into any sort of rhythm, he looked cooked, getting several reminders from Josh Moore. Luckily Josh never gave up and ST warmed to his task as the race went on, and bursting through after jumping 2 out he fairly sprinted away for a comfortable (in the end) 15 length victory! it was a win that was very reminiscent of Robo's debut victory over fences over course and distance, and hopefully ST will find the improvement that Robo found with experience! We all thought Robo was very smart, and believe it or not, the clever fellows at Timeform have ST running to a five pound higher mark than Robo achieved over course and distance!! St seems fine this morning, and we will look for a race for him in early January. As mentioned, Fakenham is our lucky track, and the figures back us up. In our colours (black, red and white) we have had 15 runners - a remarkable 7 have won - 3 have been second, with 1 fourth place, 2 fifths a sixth and a seventh. So a near 50% strike rate, with 66% finishing first or second!! We love Fakenham!! Smart Exit will make the short trip to Towcester tomorrow, and once again - man of the moment Josh Moore will ride. He will be a skinny 10 stone 2, but his 3lb claim will be invaluable! SE is in great form, and with a low weight, will hopefully run a big race, on a track that should suit! Congratulations to Steph, who won the turn out with San Telm yesterday. As you can see from the the photo right - he looked a picture in the paddock!! Today Carolina Wren and Ereyna take each other on in the mares hurdle in Ludlow. Jamie Moore rides Ereyna, and paul Maloney will have his first ride for the yard on Carolina. Both are fit and well, but will be seen to far better effect in handicaps!