Saturday 1 April

Land Leagues owners will head to Uttoxeter today, after an aborted trip to Fontwell yesterday. Fontwells ground had become Good To Firm in places, and I felt that, although he will appreciate a sounder surface - that was just a little too quick on a tight track for a big horse like him. We had the option of declaring for Uttoxeter today - where the ground is Good To Soft, so that is what we did. Luckily I got hold of those that were travelling before they set off, although the call to Alan was only just in time as he was already on the station platform about to get his train!! LL travels to Uttoxeter today in good form, and even though the ground is probably a tad softer than ideal, it will be better than the soft surfaces he has been running on, and we are hopeful he will run well. A couple of shrewd folks have purchased shares in him this week, in the hope that they will get a quick 'bang for their buck' - if you are thinking of doing the same then be quick, and please be aware that the share price is likely to rise should he win or be placed this afternoon - get in now and beat the market!! Pine Warbler is another to be making his handicap debut in Uttoxeter this afternoon. He tries very hard, and is an admirable character - hopefully he will run well, the underfoot conditions will be to his liking, and he has to go left handed. Maria's Benefit is entered in the Listed Mares Bumper in Aintree next Thursday. The plan is for her to run there. It could be a busy week for her owner Paul Wells, who has his youngster Kingsley entered, along with Ben Turners Top Garry, in Huntingdons bumper on Monday. Both will run if the ground is deemed suitable. Legal OK goes to Ascot tomorrow.