Thursday 28 November

The members of The Ravenstone Partnership, owners of Molly Childers had a terrific time in Ascot on Saturday, where Molly contested the mares handicap hurdle. I am quick to criticise courses over their treatment of syndicate members, but credit where it is due, Olivia and her team at Ascot were superb, and those that could get there had a fantastic day. Molly ran well, carrying top weight in a competitive handicap, she ran a solid race to be 5th, beaten just 6 lengths. Ciaran felt that her wind was as bad as it has ever been, and just when he needed to use her to get into the race, he couldn't through the fear that she would not get home, and when he could go for her she had missed it somewhat. So Molly travelled down to Ben Brains on Tuesday, and had her soft palate cauterised. Hopefully this will help her out. She must be some tough girl to run so well with a palpable breathing problem, and although previous investigations identified a problem, it was felt that there was no surgical remedy, but on Saturday we felt something needs to be done. Getaway Mixie has succumbed to another injury which will keep her off games for another 3 months, it has been more stop than go with this talented girl, and her owners now have to make a decision as to whether to continue with her, they could not be blamed for running out of puff with her. Figarella Borget is back in ridden work and seems ok, so that's good news. Blue Bikin continues to impress - she seems to be very nice. I have been hoping that the weather would ease up, so that we could arrange a morning for her owners to get in to see her canter, but it remains very very wet everywhere. It is looking likely that we will be confined to a yard visit - I will speak to Stuart, and arrange a day in the next 2 weeks, and let everyone know. Classic Ben remains on course for the London National in Sandown a week on Saturday. San Seb has been retired, and is looking for a new home - if anyone is looking for a lovely horse let me know. Go Millie Go is in good order, and is being aimed at a mares race in Ludlow on the 18 December. Yauthym, the juvenile filly that is going into training with Fergal O'Brien is proving to be a little star - she is currently at an isolation yard close to Fergal, and has really pleased Lucy and her team. She has put on a nice bit of weight, while having an easy couple of weeks after her busy summer and very long trip. She has now had her first taste of the new gallop at Ravenswell Farm, and everyone loves her - she seems to be a lovely filly. It appears at this stage that all the shares are sold, but one or two are yet to confirm 100% - she has been very popular, and many thanks for all those that have committed to her - a mixture of existing, new and returning members, we wish them the very best of luck with her. A half sister to a Cheltenham Festival winner, she should have a bright future over timber.