2nd February 2018

Thomas Patrick got the day off to a great start winning the novice chase at Chepstow, we felt we had reach a ceiling over hurdles and saw no reason not to crack on over fences given that fences were always going to bring out the best in him. The first question David Kellett asked me when he bought him was - do you think Richard will ride him for us. David has had Richard speaking in his box at Hereford before racing on couple of occasions and always wanted Richard to ride for him. For Thomas Patrick to go and win with Richard on board is a dream come true.  His DVD player will be on repaet all night.

Kateson lost absolutely nothing in defeat, the winner came with a big reputation and we always knew we were up against it given his Irish form. He won like a very smart horse and we have a lovely horse to look forward to running over hurdles next season. This season was all about nursing Kateson. If you told me we would run Kateson 4 times this year in October, I’d have told you we would be lucky to get 2 runs into him. He has done nothing but mature both mentally and physically from run to run and has been an absolute delight to train – a lot to look forward to.

Coningsby heads to Wetherby tomorrow in what looks like being a tactical affair, he will gain valuable experience and give a good account of himself. It is a funny time of year to be losing your novice status and all will not be lost if he doesn’t get his head in front. The step up in trip will suit us and he’s in very good fettle at home.

This morning, most put in hard yards around the sand gallop. Coningsby, Isle of Ewe and Hattie Hopkinson breezed through on the woodchip.

The reports of the M1 having live 24/7 speed cameras routed directly to a control center computer are of major concern. By the time I get back from Wetherby tomorrow there is every chance I will need to employ a driver. I may have to have a fee increase…………..

The breaking news of Willie Codd death is yet another great sadness to the racing community, I knew Willie from the sales circuit. We often found ourselves looking at the same horse and always enjoyed a chat. The sales circuit this spring will be missing a very familiar face. Malcolm Jefferson has lost his battle with cancer, I had the pleasure of working for Malcolm on his horse’s nutrition many years ago, he was an absolute gentleman and a very very good trainer, when he spoke you needed to be listening. I only spoke to him a week or so ago about the running plans of one of his horses I was keen to avoid. As ever, he couldn’t have been more helpful. Two great losses to the racing community and their families.