Friday 1 December

After 5 winners in 9 runners I suppose an adjustment of fortune was on the way for Stuart and his team, but he didn't expect to come down to earth - literally, like he did. Yesterday they took 3 to Towcester. Pull Together was first up in the opening novices hurdle. He was jumping a hurdle in public for the first time after running a satisfactory race in a Wincanton bumper a few weeks ago. Travelling keenly PT jumped really well - perhaps a little too well, and his default technique appeared to be to let fly when he could - a tactic that is fine for 3/4 of the race, but a bit dodgy when he is getting tired - as it proved when he 'launched himself' at the third last, clipped the top and gave Ciaran and himself a nasty fall. Thankfully both got up and were fine and live to fight another day. He had most things off of the bridle at the time, and it looked very muuch as if he was going to be involved in the finish - but he did have the hill to climb, and we will never know. What he did show is that he has plenty of ability, and will be lots if fun in the future. It looks as though the patience of his owners will be rewarded. Now McGinty made his handicap debut in a warm heat, off what had looked a workable mark, but after getting hampered early he was never travelling and was pulled up. So it was left to Pine Warbler to rescue the day for the team - making his chasing debut in a hot race, he travelled and jumped great until Ciaran and him had a difference of opinion at the 9th and parted company. Ciaran escaped with hurt pride only. Delighted to say that all 3 horses and Ciaran are fine this morning, and all live to fight another day! Better days ahead me thinks. Classic Ben will be aimed at Fakenham on Monday - but will have an entry in Leicester next Thursday as a back up in case weather intervenes. Marias Benefit is entered in Ludlow next Wednesday, along with Legal OK. Some nice horses to come in the near future, so hopefully the winners tally ticks again soon!!