Tuesday 5 September

Tuesdays are ratings day - the day that the handicapper releases the ratings adjustments that have been applied as a result of the horses performances during the last week (up to and including Saturday). This week his results were eagerly awaited - Land League got his new mark. A 5lb rise to 122 is the result of the handicappers workings. LL has come out of his race in fine fettle, and we will now have a word around to see what the plans are for a few of the horses that he could meet at the end of the month. If it looks like a highly rated horse will push him out of the bottom of the weights in The Prelude Hurdle, we will lower our sights, and aim for something elsewhere. Cloonacool had a bit of mucus about him after work at the weekend, which, looking on the bright side is a good thing at this stage of his prep for Market Rasen. Stuart can get him cleaned up, and back on track in the next 3 weeks or so, and he should go there in tip top form. Molly Childers is another on course to head to Market Rasen that day, she is being aimed at the Mares Novice Hurdle on the card. She schooled upsides with Maria's Benefit (Worcester 12th) yesterday and went very well. As there is a possibility that we will have three big ownership groups heading to Lincolnshire that day, I have already discussed with the executive there, the possibility of having the use of an exclusive facility to base ourselves. They have come up with an idea of a box close to the O&T Bar, and when I have found out about possible entries in The Prelude, I will arrange something if we are heading there with 3 horses. This is the only way I can get everyone O&T Badges to get into the paddock - but it is coming at a cost - which will be roughly £25/head. This will be deducted from the prize dividend at the end of the season as usual. The problem with being so popular!!