Gallop Gossip

    What a busy few days.

    Kinkeel won at Southwell on the 20th January. Running in a handicap chase.   5yo plus, 2m, Class 5, 14 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Good in places. Ridden by E Dehdashti with a 3lb allowance. Dehdashti knows how to get the best from Kinkeel and to be honest for two thirds of the race Kinkeel did not make much of an impression. Racing though is all about how you finish. Kinkeel and Dehdashti tracked the leaders. Then three from home he got a turn of speed. By the last fence he was leading and the starting to leave the other horses behind, crossing the finish line some 10 lengths in front of his nearest rival.   This horse seems to be getting better with age, unlike some of us, and his finish has improved noteably. Is that the horse? The trainer ? Or the jockey? Perhaps a combination of all three? I will let you decide. Sporting Life "held up, headway on outside 9th, ridden to lead between last 2, kept on opened 2/1 touched 2/1"

    Next a win by Ocean Legend. Ocean Legend ran on Sunday January 24th at Kempton in the15:35 . A Handicap race for 4yo plus. 7f, Class 5, £2590 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard. I confess I do not really know this horse, yet. Ridden by A Kirby they led at first then let others set the pace. Keeping track with the leaders. Then about 2f from home Ocean Legend was pushed on and ran on to win by one and a half lengths. Sporting Life " led 1f, tracked leader after, ridden to lead 2f out, ran on opened 12/1 touched 12/1 "

    A double! Well worth the wait.

    The first winner was Lytham. Running in the 18:10 from Kempton yesterday, the 10th. A Handicap for 4yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 7, 13 ran. Going: Standard
The horses ran bunched up right up until the last 50 yards or so when the Jockey, D Sweeney, asked and Lytham gave. Lytham put on a final flourish and dug out that bit extra, his nose in front to snatch victory on the line. Sweeney rode a tactical race and it paid off. Well done to both of them. Sporting Life said "held up towards rear, smooth headway over 3f out, led over 1f out, strongly pressed and driven out opened 11/2"
I am trying something new here hope it works!   click here to watch race

    In the next race at Kempton the 18:40 a Handicap for 4yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 4, 11 ran. Going: Standard.   King Olav, ridden by Luke Morris, put in another fine performance. Two furlongs from home King Olav was on the outside of a line of four racing towards the finish. After they passed the one furlong marker it was really a two horse race. The two horses racing flat out. Each going faster and faster to see who would weaken first but King Olav stretched it out and crossed the line in strong fashion to snatch the win. An exciting race. Sporting Life " held up in touch, ridden over 1f out, ran on to challenge inside final furlong, led towards finish opened 13/2 " Click here to watch King Olav's race.

    As I stated above the links to the video's are a new innovation on my part so please let me know if they do, or do not work.    Thanks!

    Footnote: I went upto the stables this morning and ensured they both got a few extra polo's and carrots.

I have been requested to put up Jake The Snakes race at Kempton last night. Jake was in the 20:30. A Handicap for 4yo plus, 6f, Class 4, 6 ran. Going: Standard. For some reason Jake The Snake, ridden by N Callan, decided to go left after starting. Then he was held up at the back with a lot of work to do. But as you will see from the clip below he put up a real challenge. When you watch the clip look for the very last horse coming around the final bend. He is in blue against the rails. For those of you unable to watch it Jake went from inside rail to outside rail working his way through the pack to put up a really strong challenge. He came in a very respectable second and no doubt if he had not been held up in the beginning he would have won this race.
Click here to see Jake The Snakes race
Racing Post " Went left start, held up in rear, not much room and looking to get out over 2f out, switched left and headway just over 1f out, chased winner final 50yds, ran on but never looked like reaching winner (op 9-2 tchd 3-1)"
The sporting life said " tracked leaders, shaken up to lead over 1f out, ridden inside final furlong, kept on well opened 9/4 touched 11/4 "

Sunday February 14th. Kempton 15:10 Handicap, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 5, 11 ran. Going: Standard.
Ocean Legend has done it again! Ridden by N Callan Ocean Legend kept behind the leaders and let them set the pace. Then about two furlongs from finish line the bright blue of Ocean's colours cut through the pack and started to really challenge the leaders. Passing the final furlong marker they made their move and Ocean and Callan took the lead. With the rest of the horses snapping at their heels Ocean Legend and Callan rode strongly across the finish line to win. A good race and an enjoyable one. Sporting Life said " tracked leaders, ridden to lead 1f out, stayed on under pressure final furlong opened 11/4 touched 3/1" Racing Post "Tracked leaders, headway to lead 2f out, soon ridden, driven entering final furlong, ran on well (op 11-4 tchd 3-1) "
Click this line to watch Ocean Legends' race. I visited the horses this morning. It was good to see them exercising in the sunshine. I gave them all polo's and made sure Ocean Legend got an extra couple of carrot chunks.

Another winner! The 5:10 at kempton. An Apprentice Handicap (Class 7) (0-50, 4yo+) 1m2f going Standard. Lytham ridden by Amy Baker. Out of the gates Lytham was last and against the rails. But the pair did not panic. Just kept cool and ran tactically. They remained last letting the others run on until coming up to the 2 furlong marker. Lytham came from the rails and moved around to the outside of the pack. Lytham joined a line of four heading for the line. Amy and Lytham got into the flow, Lytham lengthened his stride. Getting faster and faster. Had they left it too late? No! Lytham crossed the finish line some one and a half lengths ahead of his nearest rival. No doubt his connections and the yard are thrilled with this result, I know I was. Well done Lytham and Amy. Racing Post " Took keen hold, held up in last pair, progress on wide outside from 3f out, led over 1f out, soon in command, urged along and kept on (op 2-1 tchd 5-2) " Click here to watch Lythams race.

They say 'horses for courses' I think its also 'Jockeys for horses' too. Good old Lytham has done it again. Kempton again today, the18th, in the 5:30 Apprentice Handicap (Class 7) (0-50, 4yo+) 1m3f Standard. With Amy Baker onboard again. This race was a much harder race for Lytham not least because it was only just 24 hours since his last race here. Lytham again let others dictate the pace keeping in the middle of the racers until making a break for it in the final furlong. This time he was not alone. With a horse at each shoulder Lytham had to really stretch himself to have a chance of winning. The three horses crossed the line together. So close a photo finish was called for and if Lytham had had a shave that morning he probably would not have won, but win he did. That's three for three for Lytham. Well Done Amy Baker and Lytham. A good team. Racing Post "Held up in rear, steady headway on outside from 3f out to lead approaching final furlong, shaken up inside final furlong and kept on, all out (and tchd 4-1 in a place) " Click here to watch Lythams race.

Tuesday February 23, 2010. Southwell 14:30. Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Chase 5yo plus, 2m, Class 4, 9 ran. Going: Soft, Good to Soft in places. Good old Kinkeel's perseverance has paid off. Since his last win, Southwell 19th Jan, dear old Kinkeel has travelled some 1,780+ miles and yesterday his almost weekly efforts have paid off. He came romping home at Southwell again. Certainly was an eventful race. At the second fence a nearby horse unseated its rider four fences later there was a faller. A few fences after that a rider was pushed off the course by a loose horse! So you can see what sort of race it was. But Kinkeel and rider, Lee Edwards, threaded their way through and Kinkeel jumped with his usual proficiency. Though Lee had to really work to ensure Kinkeel got to the front approaching the third from home. Once in front Lee and Kinkeel consolidated their lead and the distance between them and the following horse grew and grew. In fact the distance between them and the rest had grown so much that Lee kept checking behind him to make sure there were other horses in the race. Lee Edwards and Kinkeel crossed the line some 9 lengths in front of the nearest competition and the horse behind that was 7 lengths away from him. Well done Kinkeel and Lee Edwards. Sporting Life " held up towards rear, headway 8th, left disputing lead 9th, led next, clear approaching 3 out, stayed on well from last opened 9/2 touched 7/1 " Racing Post "Held up, headway 6th, left in lead 9th, ridden and 2 lengths ahead when left clear last, eased towards finish (op 9-2)"
Click here to watch race. **** Note to play this clip registration required with 'At The Races' it is free and easy to do****

Yet another win. Wednesday February 24.. Doncaster 16:15. Handicap Hurdle. 4yo plus, 2m 3f 110y, Class 3, 17 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Soft in places. Share Option ridden by Lee Edwards ran a fine race. They were held up at the back but coming up to the three furlong marker Lee gave Share Option his head and took the lead. From then on there was no stopping them and they stormed across the line, seven lengths in front of their nearest rival. Great effort by Share Option and Lee Edwards. Racing Post " Held up in rear, good headway 4 out, led approaching next, ridden clear 2 out, stayed on strongly (op 25-1) " Sporting Life "held up towards rear, headway after 4 out, led approaching 3 out, clear approaching last, stayed on well opened 25/1 "
Click here to watch race **** Note to play this clip registration required with 'At The Races' it is free and easy to do****

    Thursday February 25. Kempton 20:10. Handicap, 4yo plus. 7f, Class 5, 9 ran. Going: Standard. Ocean Legend with Adam Kirby riding. They tracked the leaders but did not make a move until the final furlong when they appeared to be going backwards but in reality Kirby had seen a gap and moved to the outside. Challenged several times Ocean Legend pushed and strove for the line. Adam down low and hands up the neck of the horse urged him on. They crossed the line in style. This makes Ocean Legend a three times course and distance winner at Kempton this year, 24th Jan-14th Feb and today's win. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders, led over 1f out, driven inside final furlong, held on well opened 10/3 " Racing Post "Chased leaders, led over 1f out, driven and stayed on strongly throughout final furlong (op 10-3)"
Click this line to watch the race

   Foot note. I visited the stables this morning and it was B****dy freezing up there. You have to take your hat off to the stable staff they have to ride out in all weathers. Carrots and polo's given out I was glad to get back in a warm car to watch them on the gallops!

    The yard in the last two weeks has had 7 wins, 5 seconds and a third. For those statistically minded of you that is a 28% strike rate. Good don't you think?

Yet another winner! Lee Edwards riding Troubletimestwo in the 2:00 at Doncaster. A Conditional Jockeys' Novices' Hurdle (Class 4) (4yo+) (2m110y) 2m½f Good 8 hdles. Coming over the last hurdle it was basically a two horse race. Lee really had to work with Troubletimestwo but give them their due they fought hard to get in front. Lee rode Troubletimestwo well and in the last half furlong resisted using his whip and urged Troubletimestwo on. He was rewarded with a burst of speed. Gradually Troubletimestwo pulled ahead and won by 1 1/2 lengths. Oh and if you wondered what the noise was on the finish line it was a certain trainer getting very excited! I will not tell you who it was as I don't wish to embarrass Tony. Well done Lee (again) and Troubletimestwo. Racing Post " Led 1st, steadied to track leaders from next, headway after 4 out, slight lead 2 out, riddenlast, driven and edged left flat, stayed on gamely towards finish "
Footnote. I believe that Troubletimestwo is for sale. Get in quick before they change their minds! Ring Tony Carroll, or the office, for details.

Saturday March 6. Newbury 15:45 a Handicap Hurdle for 4yo plus. A 2m 110y, Class 3. 9 ran Going: Good to Soft, Good in places. Stable Jockey Lee Edwards has done it again. 11 races and 5 wins, no doubt he will remember this week for a long time to come. His latest win at Newbury was aboard Arctic Wings and what a race it was. At the final furlong marker it looked like the race was over for them. They lay third and the ones in front were starting to disappear into the distance but the race is not over till the winning horse crosses the line. Charging up the inside rail Lee and Arctic Wings caught up the leaders but with less than six seconds to go they still lay third. 2 seconds to go still at least 2nd........ the two leading horses tore across the line. Had they done it? It had to be a photograph to decide and yes Arctic Wings and Lee Edwards had snatched yet another win. Well done both of them. Sporting Life said " held up, headway to chase leaders approaching 2 out, 3rd and plenty to do before last, strong run on stands side rail final 110 yards, led on line opened 11/2 touched 5/1 "
Click here to watch race **when you see the video watch the clock in the top right corner....... close?

    Anyone would think I had been feeding Lee Edwards the Polo mints and carrots. Isn't he doing well lately? That is 10 wins, 7 of those in the last 14 days, and 8 places in the current season.

    Now to the latest wins. Having high hopes Bold Diva running today I delayed writing these reports until after Bold Diva's race. The 17:10 at Southwell on the All Weather.   A Handicap (Class 6) (0-52, 4yo+) 7f Standard.   Luke Morris riding. Luke and Bold Diva were held up at the start of the race but approaching the two furlong marker began to make headway. Soon they were in the lead leaving all the competition behind the nearest horse slowing whilst Bold Diva and Luke Morris stayed the pace bringing home yet another fine win for the stable. Racing Post said "Held up, headway over 2f out, ridden to lead and edged left inside final furlong, ran on (op 4-1) "

    Yesterday I found myself in a chilly Stratford to watch one of the stables latest horses in training Swing State.   The race was the 17:20 a Nh Flat Race for, 2m 110y, Class 6, 13 ran. Going: Good. Running for the first time for its new owners giving all watching plenty of excitement. When a horse leads the others and sets the pace you have visions of it running out of steam and giving a poor finish. But some horses revel in it and this horse could be one of those. Leading from the start it put in a fine performance all the way around and the finish was so close no one watching could really call it. I myself thought Swing State, ridden by Mattie Batchelor, had won but alas they lost it on a nod. One to watch in the future perhaps?

   Now onto the other races yesterday, 8th March.   Beginning to feel like 'War and Peace' this report isn't it? The first winner was at Ffos Las in the 14:50. A Handicap Hurdle, 4yo plus, 2m 6f, Class 5, 10 ran. Going: Good. On the first circuit Walls Way, ridden by Lee Edwards, was third from last. Going a steady pace. Towards the halfway point Lee and Walls Way lay 9th. The horse's started to bunch about a mile from the finish, the pace increased. Coming around the final bend Lee took Walls Way wide, away from the stands and the now bunching horses. Coming up to the final two lengths Walls Way was in the clear. They took the lead and kept it. The finish was now in sight. Walls Way crashed through the last hurdle but the adrenalin was flowing and they did not slow at all. They had the lead and they were keeping it. They crossed the finish line in fine form and made it look easy. Well done Lee Edwards and Walls Way. Sporting Life said " held up towards rear, headway approaching 4 out, led 2 out, clear when blundered last, kept on opened 16/1" Racing Post "Held up towards rear, headway 8th, led approaching 2 out, hit last, pushed out (op 16-1) "

    Finally the next winner was Blazing Buck (a great lover of polo mints btw) ridden by, you guessed it, Lee Edwards. They were riding at Ffos las in the 4:35. A Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (0-125, 4yo+) 2m4f, Good 10 hdles.    Third from home Blazing Buck and Lee Edwards got to the front. From this point on there was no serious challenge and Blazing Buck simply increased his lead until they crossed the finish line some 3 1/2 lengths in front of their nearest rival. Much to the delight of the winning syndicate, The Mill House syndicate. They just hope they get through the draw now for their race at the Cheltenham Festival. Fingers crossed! Racing Post "Led until approaching 5th, led 7th, ridden after 3 out, ran on well (op 11-1) " Sporting Life "with leader, led 4 out, stayed on well from last opened 11/1 "

If this winning streak keeps up I shall have to get myself a new typing finger.

One last thing. To make it easier for you to find a particular race I am now underlining the Course and time for you. Hope you find this useful.

A good run by Unlimited, ridden by Luke Morris, on Friday. The 18:50 Wolverhampton. A Handicap for 4yo plus, 7f 32y, Class 6. 11 ran, Going: Standard. Pretty much middle of the pack for most of the race but coming up to the two furlong marker they made there way to the front and it was one of those 'will they? wont they?' finishes. But they had done it Luke and Unlimited got there by the slimmest of margins, but a win non the less. Well done Luke Morris and Unlimited. Racing Post : " Held up, headway under pressure over 1f out, hung left inside final furlong, ran on to lead post (op 9-1) " Sporting Life "mid-division, headway 2f out, soon chasing leader, stayed on under pressure to lead post "

I have also been sent some photo's by those nice people at the Racing Advertiser. The official photographers at several of the UK's top racecourses. See the Photos section of this website.

The 16:50 from Kempton today. A Conditional Jockeys' Novices' Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (0-115, 4yo+) 2m. Going good. 8 hdles. Zafranagar ridden by Lee Edwards. This was a well contested race. Even at the last furlong marker there was no clear winner. In fact coming around the final bend Zafranagar was practically last. But they jumped the last really well then Lee and Zafranagar had to pull out all the stops but it was obvious that the tank was starting to run dry. With Lee's encouragement Zafrangar kept up the pace, even quickened a little, and snatched a victory at the line. The commentator for the race said "Lee keeps on winning on them and Tony Carroll keeps training them". Racing Post "Pulled hard, held up in last quartet, well behind after 4th, steady progress next, still plenty to do after 3 out, closed on leaders and hampered 2 out, ridden to lead flat, held on (op 15-2 tchd 7-1) " Click here to watch the race

Another day, another win. 5:10 Kempton (AW) 24 Handicap (Div I) (Class 6) (0-60, 4yo+) 1m2f Standard. Carr Hall with Neil Callan riding. At the two furlong marker just coming into the home straight Carr Hall and Neil Callan worked their way through to challenge the front runners. With just one furlong to go Carr Hall was in the lead but was not going to have it easy. The pace did not slacken at all and their efforts were rewarded streaking across the finish line to win. A nice win, a nice effort. I believe this horse is still for sale too. If you are interested please see the 'For Sale' section of this website. Racing Post said " Tracked leaders in about 6th, progress 2f out, driven to lead just over 1f out, just held on " To watch the race please click here.

Today I got conned by a horse! I went on my weekly visit distributing Polo mints and carrots and Jake The Snake happily accepted them with his usual enthusiasm, not dropping any hints he was racing later in the day. I normally never feed treats before a race, but it obviously did no harm. Jake The Snake, ridden by Neil Callan, in the 19:50 at Kempton (AW) a Handicap (Class 4) (0-85, 4yo+) 7f Standard. Coming around the final bend and into the home straight Jake The Snake was easy to spot because he lay in last position. But as a wise man once said in racing its not how you start its how you finish. Between the two furlong marker and the one furlong marker Jake The Snake and Callan had reached the front runners. But the pace was not slackening at all in fact they seemed to be racing stronger than ever. Somehow they clawed their way up and just reaching the line they overtook the leader. Crossing the line for a convincing win, a strong win. If you can watch the race, by clicking here, look for the blue hat colours and the horse in last position. Racing Post "Slowly into stride, in rear, headway and not clear run 2f out, driven and strong run inside final furlong, hampered final 50yds, led near finish (op 13-2 tchd 8-1 in places) "

Working at a racing stables is not without it's hazards. Last week a normally placid horse, well as placid as a racehorse can be, kicked out and seriously damaged one of the staffs hands. It was a serious blow requiring two operations and probably more treatment to come. Thankfully she will be home from hospital shortly but it will be a while before she regains full use of her hand again. I will not mention her name as I know she wouldn’t want the fuss. But I am sure everyone, including myself, will wish her a speedy recovery. Perhaps a bar or two of chocolate dropped off at the office for her may be in order? After all what woman does not like chocolate? Get well soon ****

    Better late than never!

    Two more wins the first on Monday April 5 at Huntingdon 16:30. A Selling Handicap Hurdle for 4yo plus, 2m 110y, Class 5, 12 ran. Going: Good to Soft. Danse Macabre ridden by Lee Edwards. First time blinkers for Danse Macabre and quite good competition in the race. Danse Macabre took the lead on the second last hurdle and that lead steadily grew, despite none too fluent jumping, and the pair crossed the line cleanly in front by some seven lengths.   What more can one say?   Sporting Life said "took keen hold in touch, challenged 3 out, 3 lenghts ahead when left clear 2 out, not fluent last, ridden out opened 9/1 touched 10/1 £3000-£300" Well done Danse Macabre and Lee Edwards.
Click here to watch the race.

   Then again on Monday April 5. Huntingdon 17:40, a Handicap Chase for 5yo plus, 2m 4f 110y, Class 5. 8 ran. Going: Good to Soft. Chicago Alley ridden by Lee Edwards. Not really threatening much of the race but in the last two furlongs Chicago Alley and Lee Edwards took command of the race. Put simply they jumped the last well. Got in front and stayed there. There was no one snapping at their heels just a really convincing win. They had won by 9 lengths. That's the way to do it! Sporting Life said "tracked leaders, took keen hold, not fluent 11th, led 2 out, in command last, came clear flat opened 4/1" At The Races said "tracked leaders, took keen hold, not fluent 11th, led 2 out, in command last, came clear flat"
Click here to watch the race

Its always nice to have a double.

Another very exciting race for the yard and connections. Jake The Snake with Seb Sanders aboard running at Kempton today, Wednesday April 14, in the 20:35. A Handicap, £6500 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 4, £4209 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard. The race commentator said Jake The Snake was well placed coming out of the gates but he and I must have different ideas of being "well placed" basically he was on the rails at the back. Even at the one furlong marker he looked no threat to the leaders but with less than a few yards to go Seb threw a hidden switch somewhere, changed a gear and Jake The Snake really moved. Literally in the last four seconds of the race Jake The Snake stretched his neck and snatched victory. Real edge of the seat stuff. Well done Jake The Snake and S Sanders. I have put a link below so you can watch the race for yourself. Jake The Snake is number three, as I said previously at the back on the rails. Look for the distinctive blue hat and blue colours. Sporting Life said " mid-division, switched left over 1f out, ridden and ran on strongly to lead post opened 8/1 touched 8/1" Racing Post " Soon held up in midfield, plenty to do over 1f out, strong run final furlong to lead post (op 8-1 tchd 7-1)"
To watch the race please Click Here

Wednesday April 28. Kempton 20:10 a Handicap for 4yo plus, 1m 3f, Class 5, 12 ran.
Going: Standard. Lytham ridden by S Sanders. At the start of the race Lytham and Seb went off with the rest of the horses at a fair pace. Hugging the rail and lying in fourth. The pace slowed and stayed that way until about three furlongs from home. Seb took Lytham from inside to outside and the pace started to climb. By the last furlong they were all going fully stretched for the line. But Lytham had more of a finish in him than the others and surged past the front runners. Not a win by a huge margin but a win is a win. This horse proves an old adage. "horses for courses" Lytham won three times on the trot at Kempton then went onto race elsewhere was just placed. Lytham comes back to Kempton and wins again. Wednesdays win is his 7th at Kempton. He obviously likes this course. A carrot has been put by for him for when I next visit the stables, hopefully soon! Sporting Life said " tracked leading trio, chased leader 2f out, ridden and stayed on to lead entering final furlong, kept on well opened 12/1 touched 12/1 "
To watch this race please Click here.

Have not been on my polo runs to the stables for the last few weeks, but I am hoping to get to the stables tomorrow. But even with the lack of bribes, polo mint/carrot bribes that is, the horses can still win.

Monday May 10. Brighton 15:40 a Handicap for 4yo plus, 1m 3f 196y, Class 3, 6 ran. Going: Good. Surface: Turf. King Olav ridden by Seb Sanders. Ridden hard right from the start King Olav lay in second place pressing the leader. At four furlongs Seb began to move King Olav up so by the three furlong marker King Olav was in the lead, just. But it was not going to be an easy race the horse in second place really pushing to overtake them. At the final furlong marker both horses were racing at full pelt but King Olav held him off and charged past the winning post for a really fine win.
Sporting Life "chase leader, reminder over 4f out, led over 3f out, soon hard ridden, held on well under pressure opened 3/1 touched 4/1 "

Well its nice to have another winner. Yesterday, Thursday May 13, Vertueux with Lee Edwards aboard ran at Ludlow in the 17:55. A Novices' Handicap Hurdle for 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4. 10 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Vertueux looked good enough to win the prize for best turned out horse so firstly well done to the stable staff for their work. Back to the race. The start was a little chaotic. Horses being bumped and going sideways in all this Lee managed to loose his iron but by the time they reached the first hurdle Lee managed to get it back and it turned into a four horse race, the rest following on someway behind. Lee kept Vertueux at a steady pace not threatening the leaders back in third place. But coming around the final bend into the straight they jumped well, changed gear, and drove to the lead. Vertueux's lead grew and grew leaving any competition well behind. Crossing the line some eight lengths in front of their nearest rival. Well done Lee Edwards and Vertueux. Sporting life said "tracked leaders, hampered 1st and rider lost iron until after 2nd, went 2nd after 6th, led approaching 3 out, drew clear flat, eased close home opened 13/2 touched 15/2 " Click here to watch the race.

    Pure coincidence of course. I stop visiting the stables for a month and the wins drop off. I start visiting and giving out the bribes again then three winners and a good second in a few short days!   Yes Lee Edwards too is back on a winning streak, but I have not been feeding him carrots and polo's though!

    The first win of the day was Crazy Bold ridden by Lee Edwards at Market Rasen in the 2:30. A Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (0-110, 4yo+) 2m1f, going Good 8 hdles. For most of the race Lee and Crazy Bold kept fairly well back from the front letting others set the pace. Staying in 3rd or 4th place. Crazy Bold rounded the final bend Lee Looked for a gap. Found one and at the two furlong marker they made their move. Jumped well and got to the front. Pace quickened. Lee Edwards and Crazy Bold ran full on to the line. A strong finish. some 4 lengths in front of the favourite who trailed in second. Sporting life " mid -division, headway after 3 out, led approaching and mistake 2 out, kept on gamely flat touched 11/2 " Click here to watch the race.

The next win of the day was Chicago Alley, again ridden by Lee Edwards. 16:00- Market Rasen. A Novices' Handicap Chase. 5yo plus, 2m 4f, Class 4, 13 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places.   A cracking race. Lee Edwards and Chicago Alley made there move at the two furlong marker where they jumped and picked up the pace. Lee Edwards at one with the horse pushed it on to an even greater efforts and widened the gap between themselves and the horse behind. They were still accelerating when they crossed the line leaving the nearest rival some 2 lengths behind. A decent win in a hard fought race. As the race commentator said at the time "A cracking ride by both horse and rider" Well done Lee Edwards, again, and Chicago Alley.    Sporting life said " held up, headway 9th, chased leaders after 4 out, led before next, mistake and narrowly headed 3 out, rallied last, edged right and led flat, stayed on well opened 7/1 £3900-£600 " Click here to watch the race.

Two wins this week. First of all Monkhair ridden by Stable Jockey Lee Edwards on Thursday, June 3rd at Uttoxeter. 20:00. A Handicap Hurdle. 4yo plus, 2m, Class 5, 9 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. For most of the race they lay fourth or fifth. Somehow Monkhair did not seem to be getting into the race. Then near the end with a couple of hurdles left to jump Lee dropped his whip, but still managed to draw level with A P's horse. It looked as from then on it had become personal. Forget the other horses, they fell further and further back. Monkhair was determined that the other horse was not going in front. Lee looked just as determined that he was going to beat the top jockey AP McCoy! Between them they fought hard, rode hard and both horse and rider out rode the top jockey and the favourite. Monkhair and Lee Edwards left them some four lengths behind and the rest of the pack some 23 lengths behind that. Must have felt good! Well done Lee Edwards and Monkhair. Just goes to prove you dont always need a whip to get the best out of horse. One for the scrap book Lee! Sporting Life " held up in touch, put off by rivals swishing tail when stumbled aproaching 3 out, soon went 2nd, not fluent 2 out, led and rider dropped whip flat, ran on well opened 4/1 touched 9/2 "

Chicago Alley ridden by Lee Edwards in the 19:50 from Bangor On Dee. A Handicap Chase (Class 4) (0-115, 5yo+) (2m1f110y) 2m1½f, Good 12 fences. Lee had his hands full at the start of the race to keep Chicago Alley's enthusiasm in check. Even so with a circuit left to go they got to the front. Chicago Alley jumped well right from the start and kept that standard all the way around. At three out they were challenged for the lead. Two out Lee Edwards had retaken the lead and Lee started to let Chicago Alley have her head. Chicago jumped well and extended their lead. They jumped the last safe and clear and Lee just let her go. There was no catching them. They won easily and convincingly. Lee Edwards arms must be a couple of inches longer after that race. Well done Lee Edwards, Chicago Alley. It was such a strong win by Chicago Alley that no doubt the handicapper will be taking a close look at her. In her last four races it has been 1,2,1,2. Impressive.
Racing Post said "Raced with plenty of zest, led approaching 2nd, made rest, always looked in full control from 4 out, clear after last, easily (op 11-4) " Click here to watch race.

         I went stable visiting this morning. Carrots & Polo Mints distributed. The horses looked pleased to see me, or was it just the mints? I can report they all look fit and well with some out enjoying the damp grass and the warm sunshine in the paddocks.
        I spoke to Mary, assistant trainer, and I am pleased to report her hand is much better but certainly not 100% yet. It was quite a serious injury and it will take a few months of physiotherapy yet to get the best out of it. Lee Edwards arms are still in place after yesterdays win. He was, rightfully, very pleased with the win at Bangor-On-Dee and is looking forward to tomorrows runs.
       I have had a word with the stable secretary and she promises to do an up to date list of all the current horses in training which of course I shall put up on the website as soon as I have it.   Over the last month one or two horses have gone home for a rest and their places have been quickly snapped up. I like to think I can spot a good racehorse when I see one and there is more than one in the new arrivals. We shall see.

A winner yesterday. Thursday June 10th at Uttoxeter 20:40. A Novices' Handicap Hurdle, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 5, 13 ran. Going: Good. Monkhair ridden by Lee Edwards put in a good race and jumped well all the way around. After jumping the last it was a two horse race. Lee kept his whip this time. Monkhair went onto win by the narrowest of margins, not so apparent on the video. Even looking at the photo in the photo finish I could not make out who had won but the judges gave it to Monkhair. Nice horse.Sporting Life said " held up towards rear, headway after 4th, challenged 3 out, led 2 out, wandered when clear last, driven flat, all out towards finish, just lasted (no time taken) opened 3/1 touched 10/3 £1100-£400"
Click here to watch the race. (please note in order to watch this race you will have to register with 'At The Races' it's free and you only have to do it once)

     I Visited Hereford races on Sunday. Glorious weather. Nice to see the ladies out in their finery. I chatted briefly to a new owner in the yard. A nice gentleman called Joe. We chatted about his new purchase Letham Island.   Bought at a selling race on advice from Tony. Today was his first run from the Millhouse stables, and a step up in class. To cut a long story short it won! The lucky owner got 2/3rds of his purchase price back in the first race! Nice when a plan comes together isn't it?

    I have opened an account with 'At The Races' to allow readers of this website to log in and watch race replays. If for some reason this stops working I would be grateful if someone would email the editor and let me know. Thank you.

    Sunday June 20.   Hereford 16:20 a Handicap Hurdle. 4yo plus, 2m 4f, Class 4, 11 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places.   Ridden by Lee Edwards Letham Island did not make much progress at first but coming around the final bend they produced a finish that surprised everyone. Letham Island seemed to speed up when everyone else started flagging. Jumping the last they were seven lengths in front. The others tried in vain to catch them. Finally Letham Island crossed the line still two and a half lengths in front of the rest of the pack. Well done Letham Island and Lee Edwards. Sporting Life said" held up towards rear, headway approaching 3 out, led after 2 out, soon ridden clear, hit last, held on well opened 7/1 touched 10/1 " To watch the race click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address   carrots@stables.com and use the password   racehorse   Enjoy!)

The third winner was again on Monday June 21 this time at Wolverhampton in the 17:30 a Handicap (div 2), 3yo plus, 7f 32y, Class 6, 11 ran. Going: Standard, Surface: Polytrack. Bold Diva ridden by Billy Cray. What started out as an average race certainly did not finish that way. Bold Diva worked her way from the back to challenge the leaders. Then with a few yards to go it was a two horse race both headed at full pelt for the line. Had she done it? Yes! Just by the shortest of necks. Bold Diva and Billy Cray had beaten the 5/2f into second place. An exciting finish. At The Races said "steadied start, held up last, pushed along and plenty to do over 3f out, headway on wide outside over 1f out, strong run inside final furlong, led close home" Click here to watch the race. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse .)

    Another win yesterday, Tuesday July 13, at Brighton 16:40. An Apprentice Handicap
for 4yo plus, 1m 3f 196y, Class 6, 6 ran. Going: Good (Watered). Surface: Turf.
    Le Corvee ridden by Kieren Fox did not make his move until the last half furlong. Against the rail and just about leading Le Corvee and Kieren made a strong surge for the line.   The break worked and they crossed the line some 1 3/4 lengths in front of the nearest challenger.   Kieren Fox obviously knows how to get the best from Le Corvee as this is the second time he has ridden him and the second win. Well done to both of them. Sporting life said " prominent, tracked leader over 5f out, brought field to stands rail over 3f out, challenged 2f out, led over 1f out, stayed on well opened 10/3 touched 3/1 " To watch the race Click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address   carrots@stables.com and use the password   racehorse)

    Those eagle eyed may have noticed that the Horses In Training list has been updated. The link is on the main office page. My thanks to Sam in the office for putting together this list. We hope you find it useful.

    I am happy to report I visited the stables this morning, for the first time in some weeks. All look fit and healthy and there are plenty of new horses in the yard since my last visit. Nothing like a touch of sunshine and some TLC to bring out the best in a horse. It was well worth the visit to see fit horses in training. Polo mints and carrots given out to a very receptive audience.

    Another win today.   Monkhair ridden by Lee Edwards in the 5.20 at Cartmel. A Novices' Handicap Hurdle. 2m 1f 110y Class 4.
     Well they say it's not all over till the horse crosses the finish line and if you were watching this race you would agree 100%.   Having jumped the last well clear of the rest of the chasers Monkhair and Lee Edwards were making all towards the line. Then the unthinkable almost happened. Just yards from the finish somehow Lee slipped forwards in the saddle and nearly fell off. But you cannot take away the win and a convincing win it was too. Monkhair and Lee Edwards finished 13 lengths in front. Well done Lee Edwards and Monkhair.
   Racing Post " Tracked leaders, led 2 out, soon clear, faltered, stumbled and rider lost iron and almost unseated 50yds from line (op 4-1) " To watch the race click here.

Paid a flying visit to stables this morning. Very busy. Lots of empty stables because they were either out on the gallops, in the ring or on the horse walker and many horses out in the paddocks enjoying the sunshine. Horses have very good memories as I drove past in the car the horses in the paddocks moved to the gates, obviously telling each other the man with the polo mints and carrots has arrived.

Vertueux ridden by Debra England won today, Friday July 23, at Chepstow in the 20:55 a Handicap for 3yo plus, 2m 49y, Class 6. 11 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Soft in places. Surface: Turf. If you had stopped the race at the two furlong marker and had to rate Vertueux's chances of winning you would not have rated them very high. But Vertueux put in a strong challenge. With half a furlong to go they were head to head with the leader. At the line they got that little bit further in front that makes all the difference and they won by a short head. They say horses for courses and obviously Chepstow works for Vertueux and Debra England. Second time at Chepstow for Vertueux and Debra England and the second win. Sporting Life said " chased leader who went well clear from 12f out, ridden to close from 2f out, led under hand riding near finish opened 7/4 £650-£400 (x2) £1200-£800 (x2) £600-£400 (x4) £550-£400 (x2) " Click here to watch the race. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)

    I visited the stables on Thursday. Once again lots of empty stables as the horses were either on the gallops, in the training ring, on the walker or grazing in the paddocks in the sunshine. As I drove to the bottom stables it looked as though someone had thrown a switch and sent all the horses in the paddocks to the gates.   Obviously they recognise the sound of my car now and associate it with the polo mints and carrots.

    A winner on Thursday. La Corvee ridden by Lee Edwards at Stratford on Avon. The 16:05 race a Handicap Hurdle for 4yo plus, 2m 110y, Class 3. 7 ran, Going: Good to Firm, Good in places.   Lee managed to find a gap on the outside rail two from home and took the lead. After jumping the last La Corvee steadily increased his pace and by the time Lee Edwards and La Corvee had crossed the finish line they were over two lengths in front. Sporting Life "tracked leader, led 2 out, kept on well, driven out opened 13/2 touched 7/1 £2400-£400 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address   carrots@stables.com and use the password   racehorse)

    Thank you to all those that have filled in the survey so far. It is appreciated, especially all those nice comments. One or two interesting points made and rather than go through a long list at the end of the survey I thought it might be appropriate to address one or two of the comments every so often rather than lump them all together.

    The majority, so far, wish the website to remain the same however one person commented "Honestly it really needs a new design. It definitely lacks professionalism. " I can see what you mean. But when I first designed the website it was full of "professional" looking graphics etc but it took ages to download/ open etc. I came to the conclusion ages ago that there is nothing more annoying than having to wait ages for graphics or complicated links. I worked/work on the basis keep it simple. Get the information you want when you want it. That is why I asked about the background graphics on the front page. A set image would lend a professional air to the entrance to the website, but then again it would get boring and I though perhaps readers would like to see different photographs of horses in action each month. I even removed the 'clicking noise' from the link buttons to speed up the downloading.   I was seriously concerned about the 'simple' structure of the website but 99% of the survey so far said keep it the same and elements of our website have been copied by others, yes I did notice, we must be doing something right! Making the website look 'professional' is quite easy to do, but then it would loose it's personal touch and become slower. Ten seconds is a lifetime when waiting for a webpage to download!

Survey question 6. Did you notice the marker/s on the front page when there is something new on the website? i.e Arrows and/or rolling text. One reply said "I saw them there but didn't know they indicated something new? " Will try to rectify this.

Thats all for now. Thanks for reading and thanks again for all the nice comments.
(Frank C Editor)

    We had had a few more replies to the survey.   One person kindly pointed out some errors on the 'Horses' page, thank you for that.   I have fixed these errors and made some additions and deletions to the horse photographs on the page. The new additions are at the foot of the page. If anyone else spots any errors on any other pages please let me know.

One or Two other comments in the survey, copied and pasted here. :

1. thoughts about the chances of the days stable runners
2. More about individual horses in training

and in another section on the survey.

1. How about some tips??
2. More racing tips perhaps?

    Regarding tipping and training. After a horse has won a major race any expert can sit down and show you just why he won - from his pedigree, the ground, jockey etc. The only trouble is the expert can't do it before the race. Tipping on a website like this you just cannot win. A horse can look fantastic on the gallops but fail to run just as good on the track. Many times I have had "sure fire" tips from stable staff, I think some of them are still coming in. Also by saying horse so and so looks great implies that the others dont. You would be surprised how easy it is to offend some people.   I cannot tell you a horse will not win, besides upsetting the connections I am sure it is also illegal.   If you ask a certain person, nudge nudge, if a horse will win I can tell you now what he will say "it has a chance" or if he is really pushing the boat out "it has a good chance".   I myself can occasionally drop hints however. You will just have to learn to read between the lines so to speak.

    I paid a visit to Chepstow last night to watch Lordship run. 17:15 Handicap (for Lady Amateur Riders) Unfortunately the ground, in my humble opinion, was a little too hard and just not enough 'cut' in it. Ridden by Miss Jenny Car. Jenny I feel is one to watch in future. Chatting to her before the race she had obviously taken the time to watch previous races and analyze Lordships earlier efforts.   Lordship and Jenny Car put in a good race and led most of the way. He came fourth. He obviously prefers lady jockeys. Lordship has also 'filled out' lately.   So with right ground and right jockey who knows?

A winner yesterday! Friday August 6 at Worcester 16:20. A Selling Handicap Hurdle. 4yo plus, 2m, Class 5. 14 ran, Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Robmaa ridden by E Dehashti. Eamon Dehashti and Robbmaa had a lot of work to do. They challenged the leaders several times and coming up to the final one hundred yards or so took the lead. From then on they were never seriously challenged and Eamon and Robbmaa crossed the finish line some one and a half lengths in front. Sporting life "tracked leader, challenged 4th, led narrowly 4 out, soon hard pressed, ridden last, stayed on under pressure flat opened 18/1 touched 20/1" Racing Post "Tracked leaders, led travelling well approaching 3 out, soon joined and persistently challenged until asserted final 100yds (op 18-1 tchd 20-1) " Well done Robbmaa! (and Eamon of course) Click here to watch the race. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)

    After lot of work, as you may have noticed, I have changed the appearance of the website whilst trying to keep the basic format the same.     I hope you like the changes and see them as improvements. I am still updating and changing, but if you find any errors please let me know. Thank you.

    I have added some new photographs to the photo section, Page 2. They show you that horses definitely have a mind of their own and can be as naughty as children, but a lot heavier!

    I went down to the yard yesterday and I am happy to report all are well and looking healthy.

    Tony is now using a new, very large, field to turn out several horses together. It was interesting to see how they paired up and 'staked out' their own territory as they would in the wild. Plenty of room to roam and run around in.

A win yesterday, Tuesday August 31, at Leicester in the 16:40. A Handicap for 3yo plus, 7f 9y, Class 5. 12 ran. Going: Soft, Good to Soft in places. Surface: Turf. A relatively new horse I do not yet know called Nisaal ridden by A Kirby. Adam Kirby and Nisaal were with the rest of the pack as the whole congregation of horses passed the two furlong marker with no one really making all. Coming up to the one furlong marker Nisaal and another began to break ranks and make for the line. Nisaal stretched out and took the lead, but it was not going to be easy. Under pressure from two others would Nisaal do it? Nisaal had that little extra that was needed and rode across the line winning by a neck. A good win. Congratulations Adam Kirby, Nisaal and connections. I must seek this horse out when I next visit the stables, deserving of a couple of polo mints. Sporting Life said " in rear, headway 3f out, chased leader over 1f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong touched 11/1 " To watch the race click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)

Wednesday September 1. Kempton 20:50. Apprentice Handicap, 3yo plus, 1m 3f. Class 6. 12 ran, Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Carlton Scroop ridden by Kieren Fox. Oh what a race. If you get the chance watch the race, link below. For pretty much of the race Kieren Fox held Carlton Scroop midfield and if you had stopped the race at the two furlong marker and had to guess who the winner would be you certainly would not have picked Carlton Scroop. But as they approached the final furlong marker Carlton changed gear and put his hoof down on the accelerator. Kieren Fox let Carlton have his head and away they went. The acceleration was something to enjoy. Carlton Scroop and Kieren Fox just picked off the leaders one by one and charged up the home straight. I have not seen a finish quite like that in some time. He cleared the horse who came in second by two and a half lengths but the distance he did it in was quite something. No doubt the handicappers will have a closer look at Carlton Scroop now. Well done Carlton Scroop and Kieren Fox. Thank you for an enjoyable race. Click here to watch the race. Sporting Life " in touch, headway over 2f out, switched to inside to challenge over 1f out, led inside final furlong, kept on well opened 4/1 £3500-£1000 " Racing Post "Held up in 7th, shaken up and progress over 2f out, strong burst over 1f out to lead inside final furlong, soon clear (op 4-1) "

Two small changes to website. If you click on horse photo on the 'Office' page you will be taken to the front of the website. The other small change has been to the page selection buttons. Can you spot what we have done? Changes made on request from a reader.