Tuesday 20 December

Cloonacool skips Ludlow as planned, but the horse that we were swerving has not been declared. Cloonacool is in great form, and is rated 132 over hurdles which is 8lbs lower than his chase mark, so we will test him over hurdles on the 27th. He will be chasing again soon, but for now it is hurdles for him. A great Christmas present for all of Sneaking Budges owners to have him cantering again - I can't wait to get him out again over 2 miles. Molly Childers is fine after her run, and will be out again in mid Feb. Apasionado will also be back at about the same time - he has had a full week off of all duties, but will be back ridden again this week. Looking at the ratings of the horses that are contesting the better 2m novice hurdles this winter - it looks the sensible call to try him in a decent trial to see just what he can do over 2 miles. To this end, he will be aimed at a return in mid Feb, with the Dovecote Hurdle in Kempton an option for him. Pull Together remains on course to make his track debut on New Years Eve. Chandos Belle who has sparked back into life in the last couple of weeks, will be entered in the fillies juvenile maiden hurdle in Doncaster on Dec 29th, it will be her hurdling debut, and I can't wait to see her get going at the job she was bought for. She appreciates cut in the ground, and jumps really well. Josh has schooled her and liked her very much, so hopefully he will be able to take the ride next week. This weeks handicaps adjustments are: Wolf Of Windlesham -2 (135), Paddy The Deejay -3 (109), Vinegar Hill -2 (118), Pine Warbler -3 (117).