Monday 19 October

A glorious afternoon in Kempton Park yesterday, where what was expected to happen just about did happen. I think we saw a very smart novice hurdler in Maputo. The listed Novice Hurdle was run 1.7 seconds faster than The New One did it in, and they stood still for a couple of seconds after the tapes went back - so all in all it was a very hot heat, and the winner looks like a hugely talented addition to the hurdling ranks. Swansea Mile, who was second was third behind Cloonacool in Market Rasen, giving that form a very healthy look. Cloonacool himself remains on course for Ascot at the end of the month. Bold Conquest is in great terms with himself, and will head to Worcester on Wednesday. Native Princess will unfortunately not be lining up in Worcester. Christmas Twenty is back cantering, and going nicely. He has been out for another test run in the lorry - and that has gone OK, we will start looking for another race for him shortly. His management on raceday will change to avoid a repeat performance of his antics in Warwick! Smart Exit has come out of his race well - has been flagged up in The Racing Post as 'one to back on his next three starts' so we are looking forward to him running again next month. Savingforvegas is going very nicely, and will start to do some quicker bits within the next 2 weeks - she is a nice mare! San Telm is in super heart, and will be out again in early November - he seems right back to his best, and will surely run a big race next time, with the benefit of his last run in Uttoxeter under his belt! Dawn Commander is fine, and recovering from is wind op well. He is still going out in the day, and in his stable at night. He seems to be enjoying his down-time!