Tuesday 5 December

Classic Ben got the week off to a great start yesterday, when he won on his hurdling debut. He had entries in a couple of races over the weekend, but it always looked as though the Fakenham race would cut up, and so it proved with just 4 going to post. In reality there were only 2 horses in it, and Balinslea Bridge the other with a realistic chance had looked unsuited by the track when second to Kaloci last month. We were not certain that it would suit CB, and in fact both made hard work of it, although Ciaran managed to keep CB straight over the final two flights when his challenger veered violently right handed, which in the end handed the race to CB. CB was still green when he hit the front, and it looks as though there is plenty more to come from him, and he will be ridden slightly differently when he comes out again sometime over Christmas. He sure does have an engine! I can't believe that there is still 1 share left in him - he now has form figures of 221 since joining the team, and is amazing value!! nickbrownracing@gmail.com or 07909 518902. Tomorrow Maria's Benefit heads to Ludlow - this race has been the plan for a while - good luck to Paul and Jan. Legal OK runs in the novices' handicap chase. Later this week - Hillcrest Fire runs in Aintree on Saturday, and Cloonacool is entered in Huntingdon on Sunday. Next week Land League and Sneaking Budge will both have entries. Busy times - but Stuart and the team have them in fine form - long may it last!! CB owners - photos of yesterday can be viewed and ordered at www.photoaction.co.uk Two more shares taken in Kaloci yesterday - the Fakenham factor! Just a couple now left - she heads back to the scene of her victory in a fortnights time - and is in fine form!! 07909 518902 to grab yourself an early Christmas present!!