Kinneston

Thursday

2012-02-23T17:28:00.001Z

Mild and blowy again, a quiet day for most of the horses but schooling over hurdles for Academy, Little Glenshee and Papamoa,decent piece of work on the grass for Sundays intended p2p runners Almost Blue and Flaming Thistle.
Racing has a curious habit of reflecting life, on Tuesday at Ascot Sales lot 43 was unsold at 400 gns, being sold by Rangers Racing and named Ibrox, poor thing is probably on it's way to Belgium by now which is really where the Directors should be going, a sorry affair but it's produced some cracking jokes!

Windy Wednesday

2012-02-22T12:52:00.000Z

Blowing a bit of a gale here today but very mild and the forecast is for much of the same until early next month so I'm going to relax, winter is defeated - salt spreader, snow plough etc can all go back into storage... (tempting fate?) Busy morning again, with Four Fiddlers, Papamoa and Academy heading over to Lucinda's and lots of others working hard here on the all-weather, very blowy over there but I loved seeing the horses work, twenty minutes standing in wind with soft rain but a skip in my step when I returned to the car. A cracking winner for Lucy yesterday on Stanley Bridge at Wetherby, just holding on in a driving finish, today she is at Doncaster where she rides Go Amwell in the 4.10.
And how about the whip rules? It appears from my brief look at the RP that they have effectively undone all the changes, that might or might not be the right thing to do and I am glad they are sorting it out before Cheltenham but what a huge waste of everyone's time, absurd, in any other walk of life someone would fall on their sword and that should be however presided over the whole debacle......

Blowy Monday

2012-02-20T18:25:00.001Z

Wild and windy today but a top morning jumping a few young horses off the flat that are scheduled for a spring campaign over hurdles, nothing better than seeing the penny drop, also spent some time jumping some of the older ones who seems to be struggling with their fluency. A quiet week on the racing front with only likely action the Percy p2p on Sunday if I can summon up the energy to drive down there again after yesterday, also am expected at Murrayfield, we will see what happens... Mrs A had a absurdly busy schedule driving her taxi yesterday afternoon to hockey matches and returning the younger two (and their gerbils!) to school, she kindly let me off after my 5 hour trip to Northumberland, I was left with a little time for contemplation and found myself on the scales - OMG!!! - disaster and emergency review of diet and exercise regime underway...

Sydney Cove has gone home for a short break, his run last week when 2nd at Ayr was possibly his best to date, I hope he can return to the track in the same fettle in the spring, he has become an unlikely favourite in the yard, here are another couple of fine pictures from Ayr taken by Frank Cornfield

Joe, Sydney and Kelly

The debrief..........

Nomadic Lucy has a busy day at Wetherby tomorrow.... Stanley Bridge in the 1.40, Naiad de Misselot in the 2.10, Bandamanan in the 2.40, Nine de Sivola in the 3.15 and Storm Surge in teh 4.25.

Oops

2012-02-19T16:38:00.003Z

A good morning with the horses yesterday, some here on the all-weather, some at Lucinda's and some here on the grass. I hope I am better at training horses than children to drive, Clare's first go with her Dad lasted all of 30 yards....(must let her drive next time!)

Oops, an early collision with a wall brought an abrupt halt to Clare's first driving lesson with Dad, I don't think I will go for a second career as a driving instructor!

A fine review of the website and blog in today's Racing Post, luckily he only thinks I've been at this since 2008, the old email blog started long before that, yawn, thanks for sticking with me!

Extract from today's RP

Frosty this morning and a fine drive to Northumberland and back with the horses, sadly no pointing though as for some odd reason racing was abandoned due to unsafe ground as it was still deemed to be frozen in places. These decisions are always difficult but I walked the entire track between 11.55 and 12.25 with my stick and in my opinion it was fine to race on, the only other person that I met walking the whole track with a stick was a very experienced rider from Yorkshire and she agreed with me, bizarre, I'm certainly not one for risking horses on unsafe ground and I walk a lot of racetracks throughout the year, three lories from Kinross-shire alone so a lot of diesel burnt. In the event I wouldn't have run two of my four intended runners as for the second week in a row the ground was not as described on the Saturday, hmm, nothing to do with frost either, at least I was home to watch Luxy riding at Market Rasen, can't believe the amount of fantastic press she has had this week, still means nothing to her which is great really, she just wants to get on with the next race, tomorrow she rides Domolly in the 4.10 at Carlisle and then it's Wetherby on Tuesday...

Saturday

2012-02-18T08:30:00.002Z

Ahh, Saturday morning and a free run at the golden syrup, busy morning ahead with plans for lots of the horses to work in a variety of places, then looking forward to a cracking afternoon's racing on Channel Four, I watched Sprinter Sacre's performance at Newbury yesterday, broke the course record hard held, surely the best two mile chaser we have seen for a long time. Should be a good day but nervous about being driven for the first time by 17yo Clare later this morning, might need sedated! Weather resumes a more normal pattern, cold and windy but we have had a good spell so no complaining. Tomorrow we will run four or five at Alnwick p2p, then a short break for them for a few weeks, Lucy will be at Market Rasen where she rides Sir Tantallus Hawk in the 2.40, Springfield Raki in the 3.15, Rich Lord in the 3.50 and Pistol Basc in the 4.20 - it will be a busy afternoon keeping a track of everything that is going on but I am sure I will be my normal chirpy self on Monday morning, a quiet week beckons after all....

In the gloaming......

Tipsy Dara, Lucy and Amy head out at Ayr, pleased to report all this week's runners appear bright and well.

Wow!

2012-02-16T18:37:00.001Z

Lucy on Kealigolane at Kelso yesterday

Well, Forcefield failed to act on the fast ground and after the first hurdle refused to let himself down which was disappointing, probably not his sort of track either. Yet again though Lucy quickly cheered us up and won on Red Tamber in impressive style, what we didn't realise until after the event was that she had written herself into the record books - racing post, lucy makes history - just amazing, and I would like to personally thank all those who have supported her, most particularly the owners here who had faith in her at the start, my fellow trainers who have had the confidence to put her up and those who helped get her the jobs in the right places that have been so important to her development - thank you all, let's hope she stays lucky....

Lucy on Red Tamber

Lucy sneaks a peek at the big screen at Kelso yesterday

On Miss Pollyanna in the bumper yesterday

Musselburgh

2012-02-16T09:03:00.001Z

Things didn't go to plan for Commercial Express at Kelso yesterday but we move quickly on to Musselburgh today where we run Forcefield in the 2.10, 12 run and the ground will be on the quick side, Lucy rides and we will be looking for a clear round after tipping up there last time, conditions should suit well and he is wearing a tongue tie. Lucy also rides Lord of the Gang in the 1.40, Red Tamber in the 1.40 and Battle Honour in the 3.15....

Kelso

2012-02-15T09:41:00.002Z

A long but rewarding day at Ayr yesterday with all three runners performing to their best, Sydney Cove was a game 2nd in the opening race, Tipsy Dara put up a tremendous effort to finish 3rd in a competitive handicap chase considering she pulled both front shoes off and it was only her second start over fences and Little Glenshee stayed on stoutly to also finish 3rd in the concluding bumper, denting a few lofty reputations in the process. The circus moves on to Kelso today where we run Commercial Express with Kit on board in the 4.10, 6 run and the ground will be good to soft, whilst he will improve for the run he has been in good form at home and the small field and stiff test should suit him well. Lucy rides Kealigolane in the 1.40, Sophonie in the 2.40 and Miss Pollyanna in the 4.40.

Littel Glenshee with some of her happy connections yesterday

Ayr

2012-02-13T16:39:00.001Z

Fine weather today and plenty of work for the horses in the schools, on the all-weather and schooling over hurdles and fences. No luck at the p2p yesterday but a fine winner on the all-weather at Southwell for Lucy, we hope to have a busy week and tomorrow we have 3 runners at Ayr starting off with Sydney Cove in the 1.20 with Joe Colliver on board, 12 run and the ground will be soft, he was 3rd in a similar contest at the course last week and will hopefully go well again. Tipsy Dara runs in the 4.30, a competitive 14 runner handicap chase, Lucy on board, she has been in good heart since her Newcastle win and I think she will be suited by the step up in trip, this is much more competitive though; finally Little Glenshee (Lucy) runs in the concluding bumper at 5.10 by which time I expect it will be dark, she has been working nicely but the opposition are difficult to assess. Lucy also rides Ancient Times in the 1.20 and Charingworth in the 3.35.

Tipsy Dara

I'm looking forward to the day but am struck by how long it might feel for the racing public, an eight race card with several 35 minute intervals and medicocre prize money is unlikely enhance the racegoer experience. These 8 race jumps cards (where there have been no divisions) are a new phenomenon and I wonder what is driving them (well, I can guess!), some of the races aren't terribly competitive and I am sure that compressing the day, increasing the money on offer and tweaking some of the race conditions would result in a more vibrant spectacle; though, from a personal point of view, I am happy to have as many different races to run my horses in as possible....

Balmy Ecosse

2012-02-11T10:04:00.002Z

Relatively of course but bizarre weather as for once we are frost free and able to work our horses on the grass gallops this morning and school over fences whilst the South freezes. Impossible to resist a little schadenfreude as we watch the Southern trainers deal with conditions more akin to a Scottish winter (3 lots on Redcar beach on Thursday for Lucy) but the other side of the coin is they appear to be filling their wagons with horses with the intent of robbing the hardy northerners of their coveted prize money over the next week. Extra rations are being deployed and our horses are girding their loins in preparation to repel the raiders.... battle commence!

Little Glenshee (left) leads at Perth in the spring, her seasonal debut this week we hope

And it does at 1.30 this afternoon when Lucy rides Kealigolane for Barry Murtagh at Musselburgh, she also rides Carrietau for him in the 2.35 (Ch 4). She then heads South for two rides at Southwell tomorrow, we stay nearby and will have up to five runners at the Overton p2p, then we will head to Ayr on Tuesday, perhaps Kelso on Wednesday (take on the Queen's Barber's Shop in the Hunter Chase? I don't think so!) and Musselburgh on Thursday. Amongst those working the morning Little Glenshee particularly took the eye, she appears to have improved and will make her seasonal debut at either Ayr on Tuesday or Kelso on Wednesday, there are shares available via Kinneston Racing Syndicates in this attractive and promising mare, astonishing value, brighten up your February and treat yourself (or somebody else for Valentine's Day?)........

Frizzle

2012-02-09T15:35:00.000Z

Freezing drizzle today and some tricky conditions but no frost and the horses just had a gentle time walking, trotting and steady cantering on the all-weather. Very slow thaw underway, hoping that it does enough to allow the p2p on Sunday to go ahead; Ayr Kelso and Musselburgh next week also on the radar screen so fingers crossed.........

The future... this six month old brother to Buffalo Ballet by Flemensfirth arrived here last week, not sure who the fat bloke with the silly gloves is...... Michelin Man! (well wrapped up!)

Winter Rations

2012-02-08T16:28:00.000Z

Well, I succumbed, after a week of frost I could no longer tolerate the "Special K Summer Berries" and switched to the winter porridge routine, hoped for a bonus in the belief that with school runs no longer required the golden syrup police might still be in bed, alas not, beady eyes watching, I suggest it might be nice if made with cream, she thinks water might be more appropriate, I reach for the wicked squeezy bottle, fortunately it all disappears below the surface, just a drop of course.....

Schooling

Anyway, very frosty again but gallop in fine fettle and most of them worked three times up, a few went hacking in the forestry or around the farm, trying to keep them fresh and fit, seems to be working. Lots of entries at Ayr, a few strange names from the South, must be becoming very frustrated down there, clouded over here now and whilst its still cold I think conditions ought to open up to allow racing to go ahead at the weekend, sadly no entries this time at Musselburgh from the "nearly" champion trainer, NJH, suspect his owners smarting after last weekend's abortive travel costs, not sure the races look like "Cheltenham Trials" any more but still an excellent card, I hope they get the declarations they deserve as it is important these rescheduled fixtures are well-supported. Several nice articles in the press today re Lucy, I believe generated by her last school's PR department, I submitted one or two pictures, they used quite a boring one, prefer if they had used the one above, a good racing position for a 9yo schooling over hurdles!

Ayr

2012-02-07T15:50:00.001Z

A decent day's racing at Ayr yesterday, spring-like weather and I was pleased with our three runners finishing 3rd, 4th and 5th; all showing promise for the future. The day was rounded off nicely with Lucy securing an easy win on Big Water in the bumper. Delighted to hear that the BHA are rescheduling the recently lost fixture at Musselburgh for Saturday, we will hope the weather relents to allow that to go ahead along with Sunday's point-to-point at Lanark.

Lexi - the senior yard cat

Hard frost here today but the all-weather still serviceable and plenty of work on it for most of the horses with a few hacking in the alpine forestry, good clean pine infused air, wonderful, makes me think a trips to the Alps might be necessary for Mrs A..........

Aaaaargh!

2012-02-05T11:19:00.002Z

Waiting............

Musselburgh abandoned and the worst of all conditions here today, an inch or so of wet snowy slush has frozen solid turning the entire place into a lethal ice rink, dangerous for humans and horses. Nevertheless an opportunity to put my new Logic salt spreader into action, having been very pleased to look at it gleaming and unused all winter today it swung into action with a vengeance. I assume whoever designed it has in interest in a salt mine because by 8.30am I appeared to have used about 15 bags and will use the same again later, ouch, however it worked beautifully and combined with a couple of runs up and down the gallop with the rotovator it was all systems go and 20 horses went on the walker whilst tomorrow's intended runners had a stretch on the all-weather. Some great pictures taken here yesterday by Frank Cornfield as the weather closed in, a small selection on the blog but see them all here.

Butter wouldn't melt.................

Buffalo Ballet (Gemma) and Tipsy Dara (Lucy H)

Isla Pearl Fisher (Kit) and Forcefield (James)

So, no celebration induced cobwebs needing blown away after Scotland failed to overcome a very defensive and negative England side at Murrayfield, disappointing but fun, good atmosphere helped by substantial quantity of whisky mac, its amazing how the mood at the stadium has improved since they allowed alcohol back in, well, not really amazing at all but it has transformed the place. Tomorrow at Ayr we have three runners - Four Fiddlers making his long-awaited reappearance in the 2pm, Lucy rides, the ground is soft and seven run. I am just so pleased to have this horse back on the track after an awful crash in early November, he seems well but its a tight little race, the ground will be a bit soft for him and the main priority will be to continue the restoration of his confidence. We run two in the 4.15, Sydney Cove ridden by Keith Mercer and Isla Patriot ridden by Peter Buchanan; both are well but I think the latter will be suited by better ground and may need to wait until the spring to show his best, the former is bouncing at home and should have conditions to suit. Lucy ride Ancient Times in the same race and then Big Water in the closing bumper.
I suppose today will be spent looking at weather forecasts, they are not good and prospects for racing are bleak, Musselburgh are hoping the BHA will allow them to reschedule their fixture for next week, it would be a real boost for racing in the North, if they did, please........

Taking shelter....................

First Lot - Plans!

2012-02-03T12:00:00.002Z

Sun rises over Kinneston, 3rd Feb 2012

Cold and frosty again this morning but a fine morning and the gallop in good order, some pictures of first lot below. Change forecast for tomorrow, probably too late for Wetherby where Lucy rides Charingworth in the 3.30 and Big Water in the 4.30, both winners last time out but an inspection at lunchtime today does not bode well. Musselburgh much more optimistic, let's hope it's on as it's a cracking card and the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs after celebrating a famous victory in the Calcutta Cup. We run Commercial Express with Kit on board in the 4.30, 9 run and the ground should be good. Lucy rides Kealigolane in the 1.30, Edinburgh Gin Time in the 2.00 (appropriately named but maybe a little earlier than 2.00?), Carrietau in the 2.30 and Sir Tantallus Hawk in the 4pm, fingers crossed and then we look forward to Ayr on Monday where the "bopping toff" will hopefully be featuring in his debut appearance on a Scottish racecourse since his return to his homeland......

Isla Pearl Fisher, "frothing at the bit," preparing for a spring campaign

Tipsy Dara, entered Ayr Monday but will probably wait another week

Sydney Cove, runs Ayr on Monday

Little Glenshee, entered next week but probably wait for Mares bumper at Kelso

Four Fiddlers, reappears Ayr Monday.

Buffalo Ballet, entered next week but probably wait for Ayr on 14th Feb

Forcefield, returning to Musselburgh on 16th Feb

Isla Patriot, likely runner at Ayr on Monday

Frosty February

2012-02-02T13:53:00.000Z

Sharp here this morning but somehow easier to cope with in February, the days are longer and there is plenty of birdsong early in the morning indicating that spring is not too far away. An open week so far has enabled us to do plenty of work schooling and on the grass so its no hardship to revert to the all-weather, frost deep though so three passsses required with the rotovator to knock it into shape and the water bottle in my car was frozen solid. I am hopeful that the hiatus in the racing programme will be brief and that we will resume at Musselburgh on Sunday and Ayr on Monday, we have plenty of entries, the horses seem particularly well and with three of our last five runners winning I am eager to crack on.....

Frost Free

2012-01-31T12:11:00.000Z

Amazingly we have escaped frost for the past two days so with a bleak forecast we have done plenty of work on the grass gallops today with some of the others schooling over hurdles and fences. Entries have been made for Musselburgh on Sunday and Ayr on Monday, sadly the P2P that we had hoped would be rescheduled for Saturday has now been abandoned. Lucy had a good day at Ayr yesterday with four of her five rides finishing second, tomorrow she heads to Newcastle where she rides Raggios Boy and Danny John Boy for Barry Murtagh.

Ayr

2012-01-30T08:06:00.000Z

Frost strikes, p2p off, Sedgefield off, a quiet day on the yard yesterday, horses all on the walker, all calm and relaxed. Weather looks like it could go two ways later this week, either an icy blast from Siberia is going to set in or the low moving in off the Atlantic will keep things reasonable, opinions differ, time will tell. We have no runners this week, hopefully get going again at the rescheduled Jedforest p2p on Saturday, Musselburgh on Sunday (squeezing in a trip to Murrayfield in between!) and Ayr on Mon 6th. Lucy has a busy day at Ayr today, they have passed their early morning inspection and she rides Jetmaster in the 12.50, Rossini's Dancer in the 2.20, Something Silver in the 2.55, Carters Rest in the 4.00 and Lillioftheballet in the 4.30 - a marathon eight race card, small fields (50 runners in total), poor prize money but eight races - why?

Creeping South.........

2012-01-28T18:15:00.001Z

A crisp frosty morning but all-weather in fine condition and plenty of work on it for most of them with those having an easier time heading up for a hack in the forestry. A splendid afternoon's racing on the television and plenty of clues for the big Festivals coming up in the Spring, disappointing to see so few Northern trained horses featuring, even at Doncaster they were thin on the ground though James Ewart had a fine winner and Lucy won the last at Uttoxeter on Sophonie for Ferdy Murphy, notching her 20th winner of the season and her most southerly one to date. Poor fare for a Saturday at Uttoxeter, a 0-120 hurdle for £3800 added, dismal, Sir Stanley will be turning in his grave and these people (Northern) are about to become the largest racecourse group, scary stuff, thank goodness they haven't crept into Scotland. Lucy is now on her way to Sedgefield for 4 rides tomorrow....

Little Glenshee enjoys the view from the top of the gallop on a cold January morning, she should be ready to run in a couple of weeks

Tipsy by name..

2012-01-27T14:55:00.000Z

Northern Racing doesn't stretch to providing a "big screen" on weekdays at Newcastle with the result that most of the racegoers watch the races in the bars, this kills the atmosphere outside but creates a great atmosphere inside, Mrs A seemed to think that I became a little over-excited yesterday when cheering Tipsy Dara to an emotional first win yesterday, in fact, she thought I made a complete fool of myself, somehow getting carried away outside isn't as obvious but at least I wasn't with the owner Mark who I am sure was even more exuberant, together we would have made a right pair! A wonderful result for Mark and Jane who having had her since she was 3 were within one phone call of have her euthanased in the autumn, fortunately they decided to give her a chance with us and made the required investment (financial and emotional); she repaid us all yesterday. Papamoa ran a similar race to last time, disappointing after showing so much early promise, we need to find the key... A quiet weekend for us I think as I think the pointers probably need a little longer to get over their exertions in the glue at Alnwick, busy for Lucy though with 3 rides at Uttoxeter tomorrow and 4 at Sedgefield on Sunday.

Tipsy Dara sails over the last at Newcastle yesterday

A fine day here today, touch of frost but still plenty of jumping and working the horses in the schools and on the all-weather, cold forecast though, looks as if winter might finally be going to intervene, shame but we've had a good run so far....

Reality bites...

2012-01-25T11:15:00.000Z

Réveillez-Alexander, un peu trop de l'absinthe, hier je pense - back to the real world today and a busy morning with Buffalo Ballet, Four Fiddlers and Commercial Express working well at Lucinda's and Almost Blue, Seeking Power and Little Glenshee working on the grass here. Tipsy Dara and Papamoa had a pre race stretch here on the grass as well having schooled nicely yesterday.

Papamoa last time at Newcastle

Tomorrow at Newcastle Papamoa runs in the 1.15 for the Papamoans partnership, 9 run, the ground is soft and Lucy rides. Not an especially sensible move handicapping wise as he is wrong at the weights with a few of these but he needs to build his confidence jumping wise and a drop back to novice company from a 0-135 handicap last time should help in this regard. In the 3.45 Tipsy Dara makes her stable debut for Mark Fleming, again 9 run and Lucy rides. This is also her debut over fences and I hope I am not asking too much by starting her off in a handicap, she has jumped well at home and whilst she will improve for the run and a longer trip I expect her to put up a bold display. Lucy also rides Kings Chorister in the 2.15 and Pyjama Game in the 3.15. Today at Musselburgh she rides Misty Cloud in the 1.40, Stuff of Dreams in the 2.10, Baher in the 3.10 and Red Tamber in the 3.40

Up Periscope

2012-01-24T16:58:00.002Z

Well, another exhausting day putting logs into my stove, thanks to the latest addition to my office I no longer have to venture outside to monitor my horses in training.
I had oftened wondered what was becoming of the periscopes from the Royal Navy Submarines that were being decommisioned on the Clyde and after a few discreet enquiries I was able to secure one for the price of a modest family car, about 10% of its original cost, a suitable 50th birthday present to myself I thought. Its installation has not been without problems but finally it is up and running, it extends to 40 feet above the office roof and has a tremendous 50 times magnification meaning that I can watch all the gallops and schooling grounds in close detail from the comfort of my office. Combined with the short wave radio system that all the work riders are now using in their helmets I have much better control than when I used to stand outside freezing trying to bellow instructions in a howling gale, all rather wonderful and it makes my mornings so much more productive.

It's so much warmer in here....

The next step will be to link the periscope to my office network which will mean that I can link into this from any 3G or WiFi connection, I will be able to sit in an Alpine cafe supervising first lot on my iPad! Of course, I always maintain that about the most important aspect to training is being able to feel my horses legs each night, remote training therefore may be not that practical, however, delving around the internet I have discovered digital leg wraps - the big American trainers operating with barns in various States swear by them; they are wrapped round the horses legs by the grooms in the evening and transmit a digital heat picture to a PC via bluetooth enabling a trainer to monitor heat in the horses legs from anywhere he can get an internet connection, utterly brilliant if they work and my first set are being "DHL'd" as I write - I can't wait to test them because it might then be pssoible to become a completely remote trainer, sitting in the Carribean or the Alps with all those fancy flat trainers from Newmarket, won't they be impressed!

But of course, I'll miss the horses, won't I?????

Brothers and Sisters

2012-01-23T10:54:00.001Z

Five years ago this weekend 16yo Lucy rode her first winner on her first ride in a point-to-point at the West Percy at Alnwick; it was a tremendous result yesterday therefore that Kit rode his first double at the same meeting on the homebred brother and sister Native Coll and Amulree, the latter owned by Lucy, all fairly unique I guess. A marathon day with 89 horses contesting 9 races, fortunately in glorious sunshine and well attended. Northern Flame ran no race on the sticky ground and returned with a nasty enough over-reach having pulled up 2 out, Flaming Thistle was booked for 3rd when taking a tired fall at the 3rd last. Lucy was absent plying her trade at Market Rasen, today she rides Pistol Basc in the 3.40 at Wetherby.

Native Coll

Cold and frosty here this morning but plenty of steady cantering in the schools and on the all-weather, starting back in training for a spring campaign was Issabella Gem. This week we hope to be in action at Newcastle on Thursday and we have made one or two entries for the Jedforest p2p on Sunday.

Amulree

Chilly

2012-01-21T19:01:00.000Z

Cold and breezy today but mainly dry and a constructive morning with the horses, Four Fiddlers, Papamoa and Tipsy Dara headed over to Lucinda's, some worked on the all-weather here and tomorrow's runners had a scamper round the farm and a pop over the fences.
Desperate day yesterday in the end as we lost Massini Man, with a rating of 123 arguably the best horse in the yard he had developed an infection in his suspensory ligament on a hind leg, this had been caused by a minute but penetrating puncture wound, no blood or anything to indicate it had been there but the infection destroyed the ligament leaving us no alternative, on Monday he had been completely sound. Brother Jamie bought him with me at Doncaster in August, he was the first horse we saw, he ticked all the boxes and we were both delighted that Jamie managed to buy him, he was a great prospect as a classy Hunter Chaser for his Corinthian rider, until this week everything had gone perfectly and he was due to make his debut for the yard before the end of the month, there we go, at peace now.
Much happier of course was the return of Joey, I am still trying to piece together exactly what has happened over the last three weeks, she is very thin and infested with worms but as boisterous as ever, I am sure Mrs A will have her back in tip-top condition in no time; she appears to have been used for hunting by local poachers, no doubt starved to make her more aggressive, our four cats better beware! Afternoon spent watching 13yo's knocking seven bells out of each other on the rugby pitch and listening in to the racing from Ascot. Lucy suitably impressed by ladies changing facilities of which she had exclusive use, she heads to Market Rasen tomorrow, we have an early start taking four down to the Alnwick p2p where it promises to be rather chilly!

Busy Weekend

2012-01-20T10:25:00.000Z

Cold again today, horses having a couple of spins up the all weather before some more serious work tomorrow, hoping to run four at the West Percy p2p on Sunday- Northern Flame, Native Coll, Amulree and Flaming Thistle, all due to be ridden by Kit. Mrs A and I are speeding up the East Coast mainline after a productive day in London yesterday, will be joined by Kit in Newcastle by which time we will have sped past Catterick where Lucy is riding Stanley Bridge in the 12.30 and Sam Lord in the 2.40. She then heads back South to ride at Ascot tomorrow, The Holinwell in the 3.45 (on Ch 4) and another in the 4.15, she is then due at Market Rasen on Sunday to ride Jaws in the 2pm, and probably Wetherby on Monday, hopefully eventually returning home on Monday night by which time she will have been nomadic for a week. Main excitement of course is going to be Mrs A being reunited with her little Joey, missing since trainer stopped to listen to that owl late on 31st Dec 2011, seems like an age ago!

Joy of joys!

2012-01-19T08:20:00.000Z

Miracles do happen and 2012 is suddenly getting much better, yesterday afternoon a dog resembling joey was spotted by a friend being walked in the Lomond Hills, the "walker" was followed home and confronted and joey is now back in friendly hands and will be returning home tomorrow. I was in the loo on the East Coast mainline as this news was breaking via a suddenly hyperactive mobile, keen not to do a Mrs A and drop it I had to ignore it but by the time I returned to my seat I was able to break the news to Mrs A, unbelieving at first news was confirmed via photograph and emotional scenes followed, not sure what the other passengers thought was going on! Yipeeeee!
Away today but a quiet day for the horses at home after plenty of work yesterday, an hours hack around the farm and up into the forestry,weather cooler and a quick cold snap but hopefully ok again by the weekend.

Change

2012-01-18T09:40:00.001Z

A change in the weather again, much milder, all-weather in good fettle so plan is for plenty of work there there this morning, interestingly still a little bit of "bone" in the sand school indicating that the grass will also still be frozen underneath, go canny, I say. Sydney ran a better sort of race again yesterday and finished 6th beaten by a few improvers having their handicap debuts, he should have his day again and we may now put him away for a sping campaign at Hexham. Lucy has two rides at Southwell today assuming (a) that she can find it and (b) that it passes what appears to be rather a prolonged inspection, Penton Hook in the 12.40 and Douglas in the 1.45, we will next be in action at the West Percy p2p on Sunday, weather permitting of course.

Sydney Cove (left) at Hexham - a spring campaign there beckons

By the way, if you are in need of extra excitement in your sporting holidays have a look at this, Mrs A is in the final stages of booking our trip. Oh and another thing, quite a few horses at Ayr yesterday were particularly poorly turned out, whilst it doesn't making them run any faster trainers should recognise that the public upon whose goodwill we rely expect racehorses to appear well cared for and looked after, they certainly don't need plaited but they should at least be properly clipped and have their manes and tails in good order, otherwise they just look unloved and whether or not that is actually the case, it is certainly the perception.
STOP PRESS - Southwell goes ahead, will be on a train journey, no longer a relaxing one.

Brrr

2012-01-16T08:12:00.000Z

Minus 4 driving home at 8.30 last night and at least minus 4 now at 8am, sharpest frost of the winter so far but luckily the forecast looks better from tomorrow when we hope to be running Sydney Cove in the 3.10 at Ayr for Lisa Ogilive with Lucy on board. Gallop has already been harrowed this morning and doesn't look too bad so horses ought to be able to do their work, for me a rare away-day in the sporting field, back for evening stables though.
For those that don't buy the RP here is the article that I referred to yesterday - Racing Post - there is also a profile of Lucy in today's paper...

So

2012-01-15T15:43:00.001Z

Kelso abandoned, Ayr on Tuesday next target, quiet morning on the yard, horses on the walker, a few visitors, time in the office and perhaps a visit to War Horse this afternoon (if it's not too odd to have been to the cinema four times in 2012, twice the total for 2011 and its only the 15th Jan!). Yesterday morning when I was heading up the brae to feed the horses I felt particularly knackered, Friday had not been a great day despite Lucy's winner, she'd had a heavy enough fall and the proud parents were concerned when she drove off to Northumberland, she would be leaving very early from there to ride out in Yorkshire and was then booked for two rides at Wetherby prior to a four hour drive home, all too much in our view but certainly not in hers. Added to that I had a couple of (hopefully minor) setbacks in the yard, our horse had fallen and looked a bit sore, I had been out to dinner and only had about four hours sleep, another busy morning beckoned, reasons to feel a bit tired I think. However by the time I had fed the horses I felt completely reinvigorated, I don't understand it really, it seems to come from the horses themselves, my desire to do the best for them and their desire to reciprocate (well, most of them!), perhaps it was just seeing Forcefield bright and well and shouting for his breakfast after his fall, I don't know but there is some sort of force that works better than cafeine, just as well really! I remember marvelling at Scotland's great dual purpose trainer Jim Goldie's schedule last summer where he appeared to have runners all over the country under both codes, always smiling and jolly I asked him how on earth he managed, he replied simply "adrenalin is a great motivator" - long may it last I say. Frank was in yesterday and here are some marvellous photographs that he took on a dull and frosty morning...

Forcefield, none the worse, looks on as his colleagues head out to exercise.

Two greys by Terimon, Little Glenshee (Lucy H) left and Papamoa (Gemma) right.

Seeking Power (James) right shows Native Coll (Jen) a turn of foot!

Little Glenshee cooling off

Ooh, afternoon already, cinema foregone, too nice a day, harrowing gallop instead, some more great pics from Musselburgh on Friday, this time from Mike Bishop.... and by the way nobody should miss Tom Kerr's sensitive article in today's RP about the horse that died in the first at Kempton yesterday whose owners he had been assigned to follow for the day, he manages to convey so much of what all owners and trainers experience through this sport.

Isla Patriot (Peter and Kelly)

Red Tamber heads for home

Rossini's Dancer (Lucy)

The debrief.........

PS - if the Chief Operating Officer of Tesco didn't know that there was a negative statement from Tesco looming when he sold £200k worth of stock two weeks ago then is he fit to do his job anyway?

I'm not sure...

2012-01-14T17:01:00.001Z

... I like Friday the 13th, a difficult morning at home and then a heavy fall for Forcefield and Lucy at what is becoming our "bogey" hurdle in the back straight at Musselburgh, both a bit battered but battling on. On the other hand Isla Patriot at least put in a clear round this time, he ran well enough but is going to need everything in his favour if he is to get to the winner's enclosure. Also a cracking winner for Lucy on Red Tamber and a splendid article by Alan Lee in the Times, proud parents! Back here today frost not too severe and a nice dry gallop opened up beautifully and we were able to do plenty of work with the horses. Tomorrow's meeting at Kelso is subject to a 7.45am inspection, we run Sydney Cove in the 2.50 for Lisa Ogilvie, 16 run, Lucy rides and the ground is good to soft - he should go well if the ground isn't too sticky, we then run Seeking Power in the 3.20 with Peter Buchanan on board, his participation will depend on ground conditions. Lucy also rides Jetmaster in the 12.50 and Toy Gun in the 3.20. Some fun pics from Musselburgh yesterday taken by Frank Cornfield and Dennis Penny.

Forcefield and Gillian

Adjusting the Visor

Jockey on Board

Washing down, disappointing to fall when horse seemed so well and still travelling strongly

Isla Patriot and Peter skip over a hurdle

Lucy and Red Tamber on their way to a Musselburgh hat-trick

Forcefield - he's much nicer than this!

Musselburgh

2012-01-12T19:01:00.001Z

Another grand day and off to the woodchip went Four Fiddlers, Commercial Express and Amulree back here more schooling all adding up to a productive week ahead of a (hopefully brief) frosty spell. Tomorrow at Musselburgh we run 2 in the 2.40, Kinneston Racing's Forcefield (Lucy) and Philippa Gammell's Isla Patriot (Peter Buchanan), 9 run and the ground is good. We hope that Forcefield will return to form on the better ground, I think he will also be better going right handed although the track may be a little sharp. Isla Patriot bids to make ammends for unseating Lucy at the first here last time, he ran well enough in a similar contest to this prior to that and I would hope he can step up on that effort, though I think his best trip would be 2m 4f on a stiffer track. Lucy's long day today (another 4am start, expected home 8pm) was eventually rewarded with an excellent shadow of the post win on Big Water for Alan Swinbank, she has two other good rides tomorrow - Red Tamber in the 2.10 and Rossini's Dancer in the 2.40, the Kilmany Cup, won decisively last year by Isla Pearl Fisher, sadly not able to defend his crown as planned but hopefully back on the track next month.

Forcefield

Two more...

2012-01-11T14:59:00.000Z

.. fine days and a busy time using all the different facilities and Lucinda's woodchip, yesterday with Tipsy Dara, Flaming Thistle and Northern Flame and today with Here's to Harry, Massini Man and Native Coll. Working on the grass here yesterday were Isla Patriot, Sydney Cove and Forcefield and today Buffalo Ballet, "Flora," and Almost Blue. Back into work after a short hold-up was Academy and we have started Goldtrek with some light work. Plans firming up for Musselburgh and Kelso but a little concerned about frost re the latter. Tomorrow at Catterick Lucy has 3 rides, Hennessy for Ferdy Murphy in the 2.15, the "North Yorkshire Grand National," Turbolinas for Kate Walton in the 2.45 and Big Water for Alan Swinbank in the concluding bumper at 3.45

One fine day

2012-01-09T18:15:00.000Z

Glorious morning, the promise of spring round the corner, not yet, mustn't get carried away. After a productive Sunday mending storm damage and preparing surfaces it was nice to be able to do what I wanted with the horses today rather than be dictated to by the conditions. So a Monday and lots of schooling, hurdles and fences, most pleasing of all was to see Four Fiddlers jumping with zest back over the hurdles, he is a horse that I feared the worst for when he left Kelso on 5th Nov for the Royal Dick Veterinerary Hospital, his recovery has been remarkable and he jumped hurdles with plenty of enthusiasm considering this was the first time he had seen a hurdle since this...

Newcastle

2012-01-08T08:59:00.000Z

Back down the road to Newcastle yesterday and a so-so sort of day, Seeking Power seems to need four miles these days to be competitve, he plugged on in his own style to finish 5th, Papamoa's hurdling wasn't slick enough against decent experienced handicappers but he ran well enough to finish 4th in decent company, staying on strongly at the end. Back here a useful morning with 15 working on the all-weather in good conditions, forecast is not too bad at all for the time of year so plenty of plans hatched for next week, no runners until Musselburgh on Friday though.

We have started some of the spring horses this week, including Daasij (above) who is back on the horsewalker each day.

A lost week?

2012-01-06T12:09:00.000Z

Well, after 3 days without power it finally came on sometime last night, not sure precisely when because family Alexander were once again taking refuge in the Odeon, probably beginning to smell slightly and given a wide berth by the other cinema-goers. All sorts of knock-on effects of both the prolonged power cut and severe storms but horses and people all well, only dark cloud remaining is the missing dog. The stable routine was quickly adjusted to compensate for it being pitch dark from 4.15pm until 8.15am, none of the horses missed any exercise or feed and they are certainly fresh judging by this morning's exercise, the only ones that missed out were those on the barns and walker regime. Family have survived well but it will be a while before I return to "Fife Leisure Park," the novelty of which wears thin quite quickly, I did manage a flying visit with the boys to watch Newcastle thump Manchester United on Wednesday evening, there is nothing like the roar of the Geordie fans enjoying a famous victory on a wild January night to warm the soul!

Seeking Power

Anyway, back down the road to Newcastle tomorrow where we run Seeking Power in the 1.25 and Papamoa in the 1.55, 8 run in both races, Lucy rides and the ground promises to be particularly gluey. I was going to wait until Kelso next week with SP but seeing the bucks he was putting in as he went on to the gallop this morning I just couldn't resist declaring him in what looks like an ordinary sort of race. Papamoa has also been very fresh and well at home, we have taken the decision to up him in class and this may backfire as he is still inexperienced after only four hurdle races but he should handle the track and going and I am hoping (expecting?) that he will also improve for stepping up in trip, we will see tomorrow! After that nothing until Musselburgh next Friday....

Papamoa

Long Dark Night

2012-01-04T08:06:00.003Z

After writing my blog early yesterday conditions deteriorated dramatically, on hearing of lorries blown over on nearly all the main roads to Ayr I decided it was unsafe to travel horses and withdrew them, first lot pulled out here but I could hardly walk up to the school to see them, sent them straight back in and shortly afterwards the power went off, I headed off to Ayr with Lucy but was only 20 mins down the road when they abandoned racing. Serious damage caused by the wind right across central Scotlnad and though we have lost about 50 trees and have minor storm damage to schooling fences and buildings we have escaped lightly compared with many who have my sympathy as they start to pick up the pieces. The weather was reasonable in the afternoon, a chance to launch another search party but still no sign of dog, needle in a haystack I am afraid, then time to remove branches etc from gallop prior to an early evening stables then a cinema trip. Fine morning today but still no power so morning put back 45 minutes and time to write the blog whilst I wait for the light to come up. Horses slightly surprised to be greeted by me earlier with my miners lamp but all seem well and hungry, fresh this morning no doubt so plenty of work, off to harrow the gallop now!

Ayr today

2012-01-03T07:30:00.001Z

Yet another storm blown in off the Atlantic but milder than forecast and not as much rain so Ayr goes ahead, going to be a rough journey but we run Papamoa in the 2.40 and Sydney Cove in the 3.15, Lucy rides both, the ground will be very testing, Papamoa faces five opponents and Sydney ten. Lucy has four other rides, Desertmore Star 1.05, Something Silver 1.35, Posh Bird 2.10 and Malibu Dancer in the 3.45 (it was virtually dark for the 3.35 yesterday so hope Malibu has been eating his carrots!).

Papamoa at Perth

Yesterday 24 hours of drying wind had turned the ground to holding and Forcefield failed to travel or pick up, we will definitley look for better ground for him now (did I say that after Kelso??!!). Back here we will be on the all-weather today, I have already reduced the morning to 2 lots in view of the forecast, unfortunately still missing little terrier called Joey which is casting a bit of a shadow over the New Year....

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T10:20:00.001Z

Happy New Year to one and all, may the world be a happier place in 2012. So, how did you celebrate Hogmanay? After a fine dinner I took the dogs out with younger son Johnny, we paused to listen to an owl, as one does, a few minutes later our minds returned to the business in hand, and guess what, the dogs had vanished into thin air, plans to watch a DVD were abandoned and the next hour was spent searching high and low on the quad, in vain, alas, we still await their return.

Forcefield (left) on the beach at St Andrews this time last year.

We've had a bit of everything here in the last 48 hours, frost, rain, snow, wind just not sure if we've had any sun, still a productive couple of days with the horses working all over the place, on the grass, up the all-weather and a couple of lorry loads along to Lucinda's woodchip. No runners today at Musselburgh but four good rides for Lucy (Andrea Bambaleo 1.50, Marsh Warbler 2.25 - Ch 4, Fred Bojangles 3.00 - Ch 4 and Optimist 3.30) so we are going along to have lunch and support her and what looks like an excellent card, there is also the slightly bizarre annual Musselburgh Sprint to enjoy. Tomorrow we run Forcefield at Ayr, Lucy rides, 7 run and the ground will be heavy. Having blamed the overly soft and holding ground for his defeat at Kelso last time I am unsure about how he will handle the conditions but it's a good race for him and the ground is relatively fresh so I am hoping he will go through it, the meeting is subject to a precautionary inspection as a bit of snow and frost is forecast... there are small shares available in this horse who with luck will provide plenty of fun, brighten up your 2012, great value! - kinnestonracing
STOP PRESS - Mrs A reported sighting of overweight dirty yellow labrador outside back door, enjoyed party apparently, ruined ours!

Lots of Pics!

2011-12-30T12:09:00.000Z

Bitterly cold at Kelso yesterday and overnight rain produced testing ground, not what we wanted for Isla Pearl Fisher but we ran him and he put up a reasonable effort to finish 4th all things considered, he is bright and well this morning and the plan is to head to Musselburgh on 13th Jan to defend the Kilmany Cup (although the actual Cup of course is still sitting in a certain Mr Wyllie's cupboard, will it make it to the course on time this year??).

The ever-handsome IPF heads out to the course

Lucy took another couple of heavy tumbles, upsides the leader on the favourite in the last, that's racing but it isn't fun..

Today she heads to Haydock to ride Lockstown in the Last Fling Chase at 2.35, one degree and snowing on the M74 she reports. After that she has four good rides at Musselburgh on New Year's Day.

Of course this week we heard that Mark Bradburne had retired after an illustrious career involving more than 350 winners including two at the Cheltenham Festival, he is a top class horseman and often rode for us when available in the North, he was marvellous at educating young horses and his insight when he came back in was invaluable. Both his parents rode for us and speaking to Mark recently I don't think it will be too long before we have the opportunity to leg up a 3rd generation of Bradburnes! Frank took these pictures in September, Mark coming in after his final Perth winner on Jetmaster.....

Stormy again.....

2011-12-28T19:00:00.000Z

Another westerly storm blows in off the Atlantic and batters our little farm, fierce weather but amazingly we managed to get first lot out onto the grass where they worked well, brave horses, brave riders, 2nd lot confined to the school and all-weather in shocking conditions and, well, 3rd lot were yesterday's workers so I relented and they went on the "walking machine" as dear old Francois used to call it. I was accompanied for most of the morning by a senior man from the Charity Sector, wisely he spent much of the time sitting in my car on his Blackberry, I think he was formulating plans for the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Workriders, evil trainers........... anyway, down to earth with a bump for Lucy with two falls on her first two rides at Catterick, other two got round but on her way home now, battling the winds on the M74.

Isla Pearl Fisher at Kelso last season

Big day tomorrow, we run Isla Pearl Fisher in the 2.40 at Kelso, 7 run, Lucy rides and the ground is soft. He came out of his seasonal debut in mid November very well and I have been balancing a desire to run him again with a niggle in the back of my mind that I would like him to have a quiet winter campaign in the hope that we can have him in tip top condition come the spring, one thing or another has stopped me running him so far but he needs to go again now and although the ground may end up being a bit too soft for him he should still put up a bold display. Lucy also rides Edinburgh Gin Time, Mr Manson, Storm Surge and Eurohunter, the latter two both winners on their most recent visit to the track (as is IPF...)

Magnifico

2011-12-27T18:20:00.000Z

Kauto Star

Racing on the front pages for the right reasons today, the simply magnificent Kauto Star wins his fifth King George VI Chase as an 11yo with an awesome display of galloping and jumping, in doing so he warmed the heart of racing fans and the wider public that looks in on our sport every Boxing Day. Not since Desert Orchid has the national psyche been so gripped by such an outstanding steeplechaser. I think what endears these horses to such a wide public is that they are animals, they therefore transcend human frailties and jealousies, Kauto's brilliance is pure, a beautiful animal with exceptional athletic ability and, above all, heart and courage that has been given generously year after year in return for nothing more than care, I salute him.

Lucy unsaddles Charingworth after winning the Castleford Chase at Wetherby

Meanwhile, a fine day here and schooling over fences first lot and working on the grass second lot led to a productive morning, looks like Isla Pearl Fisher will be heading to Kelso on Thursday, Papamoa badly needs to run somewhere and the forecast for Ayr next week continues to concern me, decsion time is nigh...
Lucy had a fine winner on Turbolinas yesterday at Wetherby but topped it all with the biggest win of her career to date today on Charingworth in the Castleford Chase at the same track, she has four rides at Catterick tomorrow - Dynamic Drive in the 12.20, Jupiter Fidius in the 1.50, Emotive in the 2.50 and Danny John Boy in the 3.25, none of them look to have much of a chance so home safely will be the main target.

Boxing Day

2011-12-26T11:30:00.002Z

Boxing Day, 6.45am, the Kinneston kitchen, I come in from feeding the horses, make myself a lemsip, Lucy at the computer, packed up and ready to go, checking the traffic situation, very stormy outside, she has 5 rides at Wetherby this afternoon (4 hour drive first), then booked for one at Wetherby tomorrow, three at Catterick on Wednesday, four at Kelso Thursday and one at Haydock Friday - nothing confirmed beyond today but she heads off, nomadic, unsure where she will be spending next two nights, where she will be riding exercise, what horses she will be riding where, its a unique life, that of the NH jockey, made more unique by living on the periphary.

Riders at Dawn

I head to the office to prepare the daily worksheet. 7.15, pitch dark blowing a gale and raining, the girls start to arrive here, by 8.30 the yard is mucked out and 8 horses are trotting in the school warming up, I head over to assess and talk to each of the riders about what I want to do, can't believe it is still to all intents and purposes dark, shortest day behind us, trying to keep things simple this morning, repeat the process for second and third lot, big winds and fresh horses, sticking to the all-weather, all twice up apart from Isla Pearl Fisher, due to run on Thursday so he goes up a third time, a bit faster, strong work, he was the only horse exercised on Xmas Day, the rest on the walker for 50 mins but him, a lone dark figure training up and down the all-weather.....will do more with them tomorrow, back on the grass, perhaps a trip to Lucinda's woodchip, some schooling, take advantage of the open weather, although these south-westerlies are unpleasant they are preferable to cold hard weather for this job. Our only other entry this week is Papamoa who may go to Haydock on Friday if weather looks dodgy for Ayr next week.

Happy Christmas!

2011-12-24T12:55:00.001Z

Well, it's that time so Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2012 to everyone who follows the blog and, most importantly, thank you for taking an interest.

Isla Pearl Fisher

A mild, damp & breezy festive period with a benign forecast so happy trainer this morning as 20 horses had a couple of gentle canters on the all-weather, a quiet few days for them before we pick things up properly again on Monday. No runners until Thursday when we will hopefully be represented by Isla Pearl Fisher at Kelso, just need the ground to dry up a little, should do, Lucy looks like being busy on Boxing Day, 5 rides at Wetherby - Turbolinas in the 1.15 for Kate Walton then four for Ferdy Murphy, The Holinwell in the 1.45 (live on Ch4), Ockey de Neulliac 2.15, Le Roi Rouge 2.45 and Sophonie in the 3.15....... we will have a busy morning here with the horses then watch Lucy and the might Kauto attempt to win his 5th "King George" in a very strong renewal, I can't wait........

The Buffalo has wings...

2011-12-21T15:12:00.001Z

Far from the madding crowd, trainer and son opt for a close up view

Mild air arrives, bringing rain but banishing the frost. Another day of ups and downs at Musselburgh yesterday, Isla Patriot unseated Lucy at the first which was frustrating, she then had a good winner on Red Tamber, finally in the dark the moment arrived as Buffalo Ballet made his debut. It's an odd sensation, a process that began with planning a horse's conception, the foaling then five and a half years of preparation is distilled into 5 minutes of agony, in the gloaming round a track that won't suit and opposition that look decent enough. Normally no pressure, but this is a horse for whom I have always had the highest regard, doubts galore of course and they heighten as he turns for home, looking one-paced and weak, then the penny drops and in the last two furlongs he sprouts wings and flies, passes about 5 horses to finish 3rd at 40-1, beaten 5l by the winner, another furlong and he would have won going away, he tanks off round to the back straight, masses of energy left. Ate up, sound this morning, he eyes the lorry while he is being jogged up, ramp is down, he wants to go again. Trainer delighted, there should be so much more to come, we train our horses to come to themselves over time, he'd never really had a proper gallop before. Problem is that he is a valuable horse, I will need to put him on the market, being realistic we are unlikely to find someone that will keep him here, will try my best and discount accordingly if anyone shows interest...

Buffalo Ballet eventually returns to the winners enclosure

Back here today frost is on its way out but enough of it about still to confine us to the AW, it's riding well though and the horses look fresh and strong. They will all work tomorrow and then be wormed and have a quiet couple of days over Christmas, no runners until Kelso next week, no harm in taking the pressure off them for a day or two.
Vet in this afternoon to scan a couple of old injuries from last season, will help us decide when to start with them again. The mid point of the season, a chance to reflect on how we have done; 6 winners from 59 runners, 5 seconds, 44% placed - this time last season 2 winners from 18 runners so a material step up, loads of ambition to keep improving, targets for 2012 - well, a runner at one of the big festivals would be nice (not sure Perth counts!), 12 winners for the season, 20% first 2, 50% placed, main thing is just to try to keep the horses sound, healthy and running well.
Main story over the past couple of months of course has been Lucy, hard to believe that 3 months ago she was still an amateur, just hope she is lucky and avoids injury and she should continue to progress, she has 5 rides at Sedgefield tomorrow - Kealigolane 12.20, Samson Collonges 1.20, Stand Clear 1.50, Stanley Bridge 2.50 and The Ferick 3.20.. fingers crossed!

Musselburgh

2011-12-19T12:28:00.000Z

Unpleasant morning today, drizzle on top of frozen ground, fresh Monday morning horses all combining to create a trainer's nightmare, all just about in unscathed but laid-back temperament put to the test! Happy about the forecast, turning mild and not too wet for the next week or so, no white Christmas this year.

Buffalo Ballet (left) heads up Lucinda's woodchip with Isla Pearl Fisher

Tomorrow we run Isla Patriot in the 1.50 at Musselburgh, 11 run, Lucy rides, a slight step up in class but I am hoping the drop back in trip to 2m 4f will suit. And then, at last, Buffalo Ballet runs in the bumper at 3.25 also with Lucy on board, 13 run, track won't suit and the winners of the last two Musselburgh bumpers line up along with a runner up from Haydock that was subsequently sold for £100k, hmm, have to start somewhere.

Aaaaargh!

2011-12-18T12:31:00.000Z

There are few things more agonising than having to pull out a warm favourite but I have done that today at Carlisle. My view is that the very worst sort of ground is heavy with a hard frost coming out late, whilst Papamoa is a soft ground horse the holding glue-like conditions with frozen bits that arise just swing the risk-reward ratio the wrong way, let's hope he has his chance soon at Kelso or Ayr at New Year.
Rather a flat effort from Sydney at Newcastle yesterday, 8th of 13, perhaps it came a little soon after Musselburgh, perhaps he didn't handle the gluey ground, he will hopefully be back at Ayr at New Year as well. A fine winner for Lucy in a £15,000 chase at Haydock on Storm Surge, her first big "Saturday" winner, good press including nice article in Sun

Hard frost this morning here, an early start in vain but a chance to go for a decent walk up our hill in glorious conditions. I say in vain but such is my peculiar fascination that I enjoy surprising the horses by feeding them early some days, its curious, they all react in different ways, some are still asleep, others are always grumpy, just wanting their grub as quickly as possible, happy to try to eat me first if they have the chance. I don't do much apart from feed, just wander quietly from stable to stable, feel the odd leg, dispense a bit of arnica to those that might be sore or who have a big day ahead of them, think, dream, make plans, it's nice, family all home for Xmas (well, apart from the nomad), all tucked up inside, hmmm, time to start worrying about the next runners which will be at Musselburgh on Tuesday, perhaps Isla Patriot and then the Buffalo, a horse I love but will not be suited by Musselburgh, needs decent ground, nearly six, where else is there to go, and Isla Pearl Fisher, back over hurdles or keep waiting, desperate to run him, the words of the late great "Duke" ring in my ear, you need three things to train racehorses - "patience, patience and patience"........

Party Time

2011-12-16T18:44:00.000Z

I think the expression is "OMG" - well, didn't everyone scrub up well for the Xmas night out, great fun but not sure about all the girls wearing such high heels, made me feel a bit stumpy! Slower start this morning but no frost and all the horses worked on the all-weather, I sped off to the Carol Service where of course she read impeccably, can't really believe it was the same person that was downing the toffee vodka and black sambuca shots not many hours before - my sort of wife! Early alarm tomorrow, Sydney Cove in the first at Newcastle, 8 am inspection, ground soft, Peter Buchanan rides, 15 run, hope to change the tactics with him, could go well in an ordinary sort of race. Lucy at Haydock - another 8am inspection - rides Baccalaureate for Alison Thorpe in the 12.40, Storm Surge for Martin Todhunter in the 1.40 and You Know Yourself for Sue and Harvey Smith in the feature at 2.45 (live on C4). Then to Carlisle on Sunday (haven't announced when their inspection will be yet - going to be one of those winter weekends I fear!) where we run Papamoa in the 2.40, Lucy rides 8 run, he is improving and will relish the track and conditions but its a trappy little race, Lucy also rides Edinburgh Gin Time and Ballycarberry for Lucy Normile - let's hope the weather behaves!

Big night out....

2011-12-15T16:51:00.001Z

Sun shining this afternoon, most unusual, frost beckons no doubt, 8 horses first lot down on the grass but unbelievably wet so back to the all-weather for the rest of them. Busy afternoon, Peter in to school Academy over hurdles, physios looking at a few. Carlisle passed its first inspection so hope remains, Newcastle putting the frost covers down. Stables night out in Perth this evening, should be lively, sadly no Lucy as she is destined for Uttoxeter and will need to head down the road tonight, she rides Stanley Bridge for Barry Murtagh in 11.35, decent chance but meeting must pass 7.30 inspection. Mrs A most disappointed, she is filling in for Lucy at dinner, not that she minds a good night out it's just that she's reading the lesson at school carol service tomorrow and she feels she might perform better if she hasn't had a night on the tiles first, well, we'll be doing our best to lead her astray, reading to 500 people much easier through the haze of a hangover (perhaps not!). First for Lucy last night with a live radio interview conducted secretly from her room after trainer had retired for the eveing, I think you can just hear him snoring noisily in the background, she gives a horse to follow for 2012, he could be the one, you will have to listen here on iplayer 5 live racing , wind forward 37 mins, tee hee.

A clue

chill chill

2011-12-14T14:21:00.000Z

Cold but quieter today after a storm last night though another inch of rain confines us to the all-weather and hacking in the forestry for those that worked yesterday. Entries made for Musselburgh on Tuesday - Isla Pearl Fisher, Isla Patriot and Buffalo Ballet - the latter two the more likely runners. Warming to the idea of running Sydney Cove at Newcastle on Saturday, looks an open race and think the ground and track will suit well. Like to run Papamoa at Carlisle on Sunday but must be a big doubt re the weather, only question in my mind is weather it will be waterlogged before the frost sets in! Nice race for him at Ayr at New Year so we may have to wait and at least the forecast is for more clement weather next week.

Papamoa

It is becoming increasingly apparent to me that Mrs A has somewhere (or maybe several places) in our house that she keeps chocolate biscuits and bars of chocolate to which I am not privvy. This does not appear to be for her sole consumption but rather more so that she can occasionally produce a little treat for her appreciative husband, a bit like the way in which she produces biscuits for the dogs. I am uncertain that this is in the best interests of a harmonious marriage, it can produce periods of unnecessary stress when she is absent and the addiction strikes, if eventually found it then produces another bout of stress worrying about whether the supply is counted and a missing bar will be noticed thereby leading to a new place of concealment. In the distant pass I seem to recall the words "with thee I share my worldly goods," oh well, no doubt she will see it as in my best interests, "in sickness and in health"....

the joy of email.......

2011-12-13T16:24:00.000Z

Rough weather today again, gales, blustery showers of snow and rain. Good morning though with a few of the horses working on my favourite horseshoe gallop; Buffalo Ballet, Isla Pearl Fisher, Papamoa, Here's to Harry, Tipsy Dara (first time), Flaming Thistle (likewise), Isla Patriot all appearing to relish the good to soft ground - they just love it down there after working away on the all-weather and so do I, happy horse = happy trainer. More tomorrow if the weather permits, it's about 3 weeks since we've been down there and at this time of year we have to grab every chance we have. Spectacular unseat from Lucy at the first today at Catterick on "I Got Music," Mr & Mrs A glued to the telly to see if we could see her walk away, most relieved when presenter reports her to be laughing and smiling with trainer - I don't think these TV people realise how much some people hang on to their every word in situations like that, followed up with a good second on Storm Surge, long drive home.

Taking the plunge and ditching the tiresome aol email service and moving to nicholasalexander@kinneston.com am migrating historic data across, unfortunately this is leading to the best part of a year's worth of saved email being transferred as unread into my inbox in outlook, currently says 6604 unread emails and they are still going, interspersed with today's intake, help, what on earth am I going to do - need to postpone my Xmas shopping (again!)....

Hardy Types

2011-12-12T14:54:00.001Z

They come from hardy stock, those that race their horses at Ratcheugh on the Northumbrian coast in deepest December, there were certainly plenty of enthusiasts present on what turned out to be a remarkably benign day weather wise. Masses of horses from all over the place and big fields for all the races; I was delighted that our 3 runners all performed with credit - Native Coll appeared to be travelling nicely with the leaders when he blundered 3 out and unshipped Kit, Northern Flame was given a gentle introduction to this new discipline and crept into the race late on to finish 2nd of 13 - just the sort of confidence boost he required, finally Amulree tired late on but still managed 3rd of about a dozen.

Northern Flame

Benign also here this morning, the calm before the storm perhaps, but a chance to get back on to the grass and about 15 did long steady canters, some rather fresh, perfect. Our entries this week are Sydney Cove at Newcastle on Saturday and Papamoa at Carlisle on Sunday, Lucy heads to Catterick tomorrow where she rides I Got Music for Keith Reveley in the 2.20 and Storm Surge for Martin Todhunter in the 2.50

Native Coll (Holly)

Fog

2011-12-10T18:35:00.002Z

Freezing fog latest hazard here today but a productive morning with all the horses having a good spin on the all-weather which remains in excellent condition, early start tomorrow and an 8am inspection but here's hoping....
Some pics taken in the yard yesterday by Frank Cornfield -

The ladies barn - Little Glenshee, Goldtrek and Issabella Gem relax in the sun

Native Coll (Holly) leads Northern Flame (Kit) over the baby schooling fences

Sydney Cove (Gemma) leads Flaming Thistle (Kelly), Commercial Express (Emma), Almost Blue (James), Academy (Amy) and Amulree (Kit) up the gallop

Academy (Amy) and Ocarina (Holly) lead the way back down

Isla Patriot and Here's to Harry

Amulree (Kit)

Point-to-Point

2011-12-09T16:18:00.001Z

Well, a different country today, different planet perhaps, a fine quiet winter's day and a constructive morning schooling and working on the all-weather, very wet everywhere but only minor damage from what I have seen so far.
Our first ever pre Xmas point-to-point runners on Sunday when we send 3 down to Alnwick, Kit due to ride them all and the ground is on the soft side of good. Native Coll runs in the 12 noon (= 5.30am start for trainer, sunday lie in?), the big question for him regarding point-to-pointing is will he stay as his forte was 2 miles under rules, not sure we will find out on Sunday as it's a hot race and he isn't very fit! Amulree runs in the 1.30, 3 mile maiden, 2nd in her only previous p2p start, she is fit and I am hoping for a big run. The enigmatic Northern Flame is double entered but probably runs in the winners of one race at 2.30, we are hoping that he will deign to show a glimmer of his talent in a competitive environment..
Lucy in action at Doncaster tomorrow, Fred Bojangles in the 2.15 and Kellystown Lad in the 3.20 (live on Ch 4)

The eye of the storm

2011-12-08T16:29:00.000Z

Seeking Power (Amy)

Ferocious weather today, storm force winds and two quick lots cantering up the grass this morning, the 8 that worked hard on the all-weather yesterday were confined to the walker...... yesterday, what a day, Seeking Power ran his heart out in the 3m 1f handicap chase in extreme conditions, closing down the leaders all the way to the line to finish 3rd, luckily he doesn't read the Daily Telegraph in which he features in an entertaining article about Lucy, he's such an honest horse, just can't go very fast but I admire his courage. Lorry was late back last night and away sharp this morning to pick a horse up from West Lothian, Jim managed to nip over the Bridge and back before the wind closed it mid morning, Jim Barclay is one of the many rocks on which this operation is founded, his help in driving the lorry etc when we are busy at this time of year is invaluable. Conditions yesterday can be ably summed up by this little vignette.... Lucy received her first fine from the Stewards for breaking a rule - an £80 fine for pulling up and then passing a horse that was still in the race, problem was the horse still in the race had slowed to a trot having jumped the last when Lucy wisely pulled up before it and then cantered very slowly home thereby overtaking the horse still in thge race, rules say she should have stopped and waited for it to complete, for how long I wonder, darkness was falling! hmm, rules are rules... With a meeting in Edinburgh this morning and a drinks party to attend there last night on the way back from Hexham lazy trainer stayed away with Mrs A, Hotel Missoni was very convenient but by the time we were coming home from the Open Platform offices in the Gyle the weather had caused gridlock in central Scotland and a half hour journey took two and a half..... oh well, Kit trying to get back from Durham to sharpen up the pointers tomorrow over the fences before the scheduled start of the season on Sunday, and Lucy due to be at Doncaster by 10am tomorrow where she rides Red Lite in the 11.50, Tinseltown in the 1.35 and Oniz Tiptoes in the 3.20 - another early start beckons!

Boooooom!

2011-12-06T12:37:00.000Z

Seeking Power - just denied at Hexham

Hard frost but fantastically beautiful morning here with blue sky and snow-covered hills. Gallop working well so all horses working on it today. Superb day at Musselburgh for Lucy yesterday, her first double, combined odds of 100 and something to one, unbelievable. Sydney ran a solid race, ridden from behind to get the extended trip he appeared to stay on well but couldn't get close enough to land a blow, finished 5th of 12, I think he can win again. Tomorrow we run Seeking Power in the 3.20 at Hexham, 13 run, ground heavy, Lucy rides, subject to an inspection this afternoon, snow on the track, I always say he needs at lease two inspections from the ground to be wet enough for him to be competitive, so, here's hoping! Today Lucy is at Sedgefield riding King's Chorister in the 2.50, 8 run, an each way chance in a competitive little heat. She has a couple of other rides at Hexham tomorrow it its on, then she is at Doncaster on Fri & Sat, we will be appearing next at the Alnwick point-to-point on Sunday where we have 3 entries, most odd point-to-pointing before Christmas, good idea.
Changing for the races on Sunday morning at 10.15 I was staring at myself in the mirror whilst shaving, reflecting, literally and metaphorically, a pause in the rush - I try to start an hour later on a Sunday so it should have been an easyish sort of morning but even in that short period there seemed to have been so many ups and downs, my head was spinning, crazy really, it's such a bizarrely intense sport to be involved in, and all about whether my horse can run faster round a big field than someone elses.... big deal. I was unable to attend Musselburgh yesterday, I as at a funeral with Rose, my 3 brothers and mother, someone very dear to us all, she always supported Lucy in her races having cared for her a lot as a child (that was 25 years after caring for the four of us!) and she usually phoned in the evening after she had a winner - her partner loved to bet on Lucy, we all watched the 1.20 at Mother's house before going to the church, a winner, bittersweet funeral and burial and back in to watch the 2.50, another winner.....

Musselburgh

2011-12-05T12:02:00.000Z

Proper winter morning today, bit of snow & frost, out early to sort gallop, came up perfectly, happy trainer! Cold day at Kelso yesterday but a great atmosphere to warm the soul, huge crowd despite the weather and gritty National Hunt racing, Forcefield ran a solid race to finish 3rd, holding ground and extended trip just finding him out. Today we run Sydney Cove in the 1.50 at Musselburgh, 12 run, Keith Mercer rides, ground on soft side of good. Big step up in trip, if he stays he should go close, if he doesn't he won't! Lucy rides Kealigolane in the 1.20 for Hugh McWilliams, Humorous in the 1.50 for Brian Storey and Red Tamber in the 2.50 for Bruce Mactaggart.
Some pictures from a cold Kinneston this morning.....

down the gallop

cooling off

Academy

Heading in

Kelso

2011-12-02T16:42:00.000Z

A fine winter's morning today but a miserable evening now, gales and sleet. Plenty going on, mainly on the all-weather here but Flaming Thistle, Amulree and Native Coll ventured over to Lucinda's woodchip.

Forcefield (Lucy H)

On Sunday we run Forcefield in the 3.30 at Kelso, 10 run, Lucy rides and the ground is soft. He is in good heart and ready to run, the extended 3m 3f trip shouldn't be a problem but I am wondering whether ground as soft as this will suit. Lucy also rides Double Default in the Borders National at 2.30 (she is due to get up at 4am tomorrow to go and school this horse in Cumbria on her way to Wetherby where she rides Danny John Boy in the 2.55), she also rides Sported and Played for Lucy Normile in the 3.00.

Crisp

2011-12-01T16:24:00.000Z

Sharp air here this afternoon, cold and crisp whilst running a grass harrow over the "horseshoe" gallop, wet still but hopefully good to work on by Saturday. Generally quiet day for the horses, an hour's hack round the farm for most of them, easy canters for Buffalo Ballet, Academy, Tipsy Dara, Alflora 3yo, Amulree and Native Coll. Plans beginning to fall into place for next batch of runners, looks like Forcefield Kelso Sunday, Buffalo Ballet Musselburgh Monday, Sydney Cove Sedgefield Tuesday, Seeking Power and possibly Papamoa at Hexham on Wednesday.... much easier if they all ran at the same place however we have to give them all their best chance.

Lucy rather embarrased by my "day in the life of" yesterday but she did point out that I omitted her 5 mile run in the afternoon, she runs at least 5 miles 4 or 5 times each week........

Papamoa (Holly) and Isla Patriot (Kelly)

Commitment

2011-11-30T18:52:00.000Z

Northern Flame

Bright, breezy and cold this morning, the first dusting of snow at the top of the all-weather where most of the horses worked, it has dried out (a bit). Another trip to Lucinda's woodchip, this time the turn of Forcefield, Northern Flame and Seeking Power all of whom have important engagements in the next 10 days. Off to a meeting at Perth Racecourse and staggered by the flooding, the River Earn has burst it's banks in a big way. Useful meeting at Perth regarding our media deal for the next five years, I hope all the courses are about to see similar increases in their income and see fit to pass a fair percentage on to the owners via prize money, we could be looking at quite a different situation in 12 months time, it certainly needs to change. No luck for Lucy down at Catterick, I hear her car arriving home now exactly 24 hours after she left, her commitment is admirable - in the second half of last week she did round trips to Wetherby, Musselburgh, Newcastle and Carlisle, yesterday she was up at 6am, fed 34 horses, went to Lucinda's to give the Buffalo his final prep for his first run on Monday, came back here to ride Academy, prepared all the evening feeds, did the bandaging & left here at 6.30pm to drive 3 hours to spend the night at her grandparent's in Northumberland, up at 5am to be at Alan Swinbank's to ride 3 lots prior to going to Catterick for 3 rides then driving 4 hours home... an average week, no more than what every successful National Hunt jockey does but I feel exhausted just writing about it, they really are a breed apart..

Blowy

2011-11-29T11:00:00.000Z

Ayr abandoned and very wild here this morning, didn't stop us taking Isla Pearl Fisher, Here's to Harry and Buffalo Ballet to Lucinda's woodchip, all worked well, I love watching the bumper horses develop as they work with a good yardstick like IPF, these two both look pretty decent. Going on our own gallop changed from marshmallow to porridge thanks to another inch of rain overnight but nice on the old turf and all the horses here cantered 3 times up the grass banks.

Buffalo Ballet and Isla Pearl Fisher on the woodchip a week or two ago

Tomorrow at Catterick Lucy rides Secret Desert for Ferdy Murphy in the 12.30, Emotive for Barry Murtagh in the 1.00 and Jan Smutts for Wilf Storey in the 1.30, some interesting comments in the latter's form on the flat, hmm. We will be quiet until Sunday when our only likely runner will be Forcefield at Kelso, winner last time at Newcastle he will go there with a leading chance and 5% shares are available for a mere £595 at http://www.kinnestonracing.com/ - roll up, roll up!

Ayr

2011-11-28T14:14:00.000Z

Bright, cool and breezy here today, 21 horses ridden, all seem well, last 7 brought in from grass - forecast pretty rough all week and whilst the horses seem fine it seems kinder to have them in, 4 pensioners and 3 youngsters, that will mean 34 needing breakfast in the morning!

First jumps action of the winter at Ayr tomorrow, ground is soft and we run Sydney Cove in the 2.40, Keith Mercer rides, 9 run, I think he will like the ground and the step up in trip. Lucy rides Alexander Oats in the 1.35 for Robert Goldie, however if the forecast is correct the meeting will be abandoned as they are due about 2 inches of rain in the next 24 hours, that will mean no racing at Ayr this side of New Year - grump, grump.

Lucy stands up for one of The Paddy Premium's less elegant efforts at Musselburgh last week (pic from Dennis Penny)

Stormy

2011-11-27T11:03:00.003Z

As wild a night as I have known last night, gusts of 94mph recorded at local weather station and well over an inch of rain. There is always a certain amount of trepidation when one heads outside to feed the horses after a night like that but to my amazement there appears to be no damage, these ancient buildings must have been cleverly built.
Initial reaction has to be an ordinary couple of day's racing for the yard, that's the nature of the game, there will be plenty of them for various reasons but that reaction soon overtaken, firstly by the magnificent Overturn who became the first horse to complete the Northumberland Plate/ Fighting Fifth hurdle double in front of a rapturous Geordie crowd all of whom appeared to have backed him, great stuff, and then sitting in the car waiting for the jockey I opened my ipad to discover the wonderful news that Carruthers had won the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury; after last Saturday's great win by Kauto the sport was again united in celebration, this time for a struggling but talented journeyman jockey gaining the biggest win of his career aboard a horse owned, bred and trained by the Oaksey family. The manner in which Mattie Bachelor's weighing room colleagues celebrated this success with him sums up everything that is good about the sport, to quote Oaksey himself - "the brotherhood of hazards shared" - is one of the great but unsung qualities of National Hunt racing. And of course, a wonderful victory for Lord Oaksey - sadly too frail to attend but hopefully aware of this great victory through the mists of old age, most of you will be aware that he founded the irreplaceable Injured Jockeys Fund which has done so much for so many people and was himself a thoroughly accomplished journalist and amateur rider, in the latter role giving my father his greatest moment as a trainer when winning the Aintree Foxhunters for him back in (dare I say it!) 1967.
Today Lucy rides at Carlisle, Red Tamber in the 1.20 for Bruce Mactaggart and Proud Times in the 1.55 for Alan Swinbank, we hope to be back in action at Ayr on Tuesday then Kelso on Sunday.

A day in the sun, Mattie Bachelor aboard Carruthers

Newcastle

2011-11-25T09:38:00.001Z

Filthy morning here, cold, windy & wet. Not ideal for schooling but with Kit home from Uni for a day needs must and we popped the pointers over the fences and a few over the hurdles, bad ground, but mission accomplished.

Capital Venture on a brighter morning!

Tomorrow at Newcastle re run Ocarina in the 12.35 and Capital Venture in the 2.55, Lucy rides both and the ground is good to soft, both seem in good heart.

Musselburgh

2011-11-24T16:46:00.001Z

Isla Patriot

It's a blessing that I cut short my career in the City, I could have done a lot of damage judging for my propensity to press the wrong button on the computer, fortunately today it only resulted in Buffalo Ballet being declared by mistake for Musselburgh tomorrow. He is fit and ready to run well but for a variety of reasons would be better to wait another week or so, banned for 6 days now but not missing anything. We do run Isla Patriot in the 12.10, this is a good race for him despite a minor setback earlier this week, Lucy rides, 8 run and it is on the quick side of good but rain forecast tonight. We also run The Paddy Premium in the 2.25, 7 run, Lucy on board, he will hopefully benefit from the drop back in trip and Lucy's claim. Lucy also rides Red Lite for Wilf Storey in the 12.40, King's Chorister in the 2.55 for Barry Murtagh and All American for Alan Swinbank in the 3.30.
Tomorrow also sees the launch of our new ownership concept - have a look and do contact us if you are interested or know of anyone that might be.........

http://www.kinnestonracing.com/

Mud

2011-11-23T09:56:00.001Z

Awesome Kauto

Cold and blowy up the all-weather this morning, pleased to be using it though, it has undergone a minor refurbsishment this week and Holly described it as like riding on marshmallows- perfect.

Buffalo Ballet (Holly), The Paddy Premium (Lucy H) and Ocarina (Gemma) after their work on the grass yesterday

closer inspection of The Paddy Premium reveals why everyone might be quite happy to have the all-weather back!

Sedgefield has never been my luckiest track, best moment cheering on brother Jamie to win there a few years ago from the bar at Cheltenham, broken a couple of nice horses down at the track, yesterday the starter screwed up letting them go before Sydney and another were even on the track, they had an inquiry into it and have referred to to the BHA, too late for Sydney, at least he's back home in one piece having run a decent enough race to finish a never nearer 5th.
Today Lucy has two long-priced rides at Wetherby, I Got Music for Keith Reveley in the 12.25 and Jan Smuts in the 2.35 for Wilf Storey. Our next stop is Musselburgh Friday followed by Newcastle Saturday all being well, and big excitement is making first entries this winter for Ayr, too late though, they should have starterd there at least a month ago...

Sedgie

2011-11-21T16:20:00.000Z

Sydney Cove

Fair and mild still here, plenty of schooling and cantering this morning. Tomorrow we run Sydney Cove in the 3.30 at Sedgefield, 14 run, ground good and Keith Mercer rides - this is a good race for the horse but the soft ground and steep hill sorted out the opposition when he won at Hexham last time, I'm not sure this will suit as well but he's in good order. Lucy rides Farm Pixie in the 1pm for the Hamiltons, such are the timings of the day that three vehicles will leave Kinneston for Co Durham tomorrow morning - something wrong there!

Mighty, mighty Kauto

2011-11-20T11:29:00.001Z

Standing in a dank Perthshire wood on a dull November afternoon I was transported to a different place listening to the commentary of Kauto Star's magnificent victory over the heirs apparent at Haydock yesterday. Seldom have I felt so overwhelmed with excitement listening to a horserace, no money involved, I don't know the connections, essentially it should have meant nothing to me but it meant everything thanks to the pure admiration I have for one utterly exceptional steeplechaser. It was an iconic victory and united the fractured world of racing in rapturous praise, we all wanted to see him do it just once more, we all thought maybe the lights were dimming but doubts were swept aside, fantastic.. this is what it is all about, the horses, they are humbling in their ability to transcend.

Kauto Star

Well, back down to earth, another gentle Sunday morning in the office making plans, this week it looks like Sedgefield Tuesday (Sydney Cove and possibly Amulree), Musselburgh Friday (Isla Patriot, the Paddy Premium and possibly...... the Buffalo) then Newcastle and Carlisle next weekend.

Lucy will be in action on a few of the above and hopefully at Wetherby on Wednesday, Los Nadis ran well for a long way in the big hurdle at Haydock, great experience for Lucy to ride in a top class race like that with all the top jockeys, onwards & upwards!

PFN greets the mighty one, how proud he must be

A bigger stage...

2011-11-18T10:47:00.000Z

Well, after the usual 30 minutes box-walking trainer decides not to send Buffalo Ballet down to Haydock for his debut tomorrow, too far to travel for his first run ("didn't you know where Haydock was when you entered?" says Mrs A), it was a close decision because he is becoming scary at home, I have never seen a horse put in so many huge bucks whilst cantering round our BGF (big grass field) this morning, Holly did very well to stay put, he will now be entered for Musselburgh next week, he needs to run. Lucy though has headed off down the motorway to Haydock where she rides Phoenix Returns for Alan Swinbank in the lucky last at 3.40. Another step forward for her tomorrow when she has two rides at the big Saturday meeting at the same venue, Pokfulham in the 12.40 and then Los Nadis in the 2.30, an £85k race live on Channel 4, I am delighted that Jim Goldie has entrusted her with these two important runners. The latter race is the precursor to the best chase of the season so far when a cracking field line up for the Betfair Chase including the mighty Kauto facing up to the great young pretender Long Run, Diamond Harry might just steal their glory, could now be the moment to back him for the big race in March?

Seeking Power towers above his rivals at Hexham

Any five mile races anywhere?

2011-11-17T12:53:00.002Z

Well, all three runners from yesterday jogged up sound and seem bright and well, can never be taken for granted, always a big relief. They ran well, all looking like they needed further, unfortunately Seeking Power was running over 4 miles, ground was soft with heavy places, bit sharp for the old boy, expanding middle-aged girth meant they couldn't find one (a girth) big enough for him (sounds familiar), late out, trainer narrowly avoided fine. He ran to his form, improved actually to beat Matmata on 3lb worse terms than in the spring, only a short head away from 4th, will be better when the ground is really deep, also lower class race would suit. Capital Venture ran well enough considering the ground, track and trip didn't suit - he was outpaced early on but stayed on stoutly, should be plenty more to come from him. Papamoa was great, I thought he would run well, I actually thought he might win, I still thought he would win coming over the last hurdle, but he ran into a very well-hadicapped horse. A horse now with a good northern trainer that has the benefit of a southern handicap mark earned whilst with an average trainer, there we go, just as well I'm not a gambler. He was well clear of the remainder including 4 horses that had won their previous races, this was an excellent run from such an inexperienced horse, we just have to hope the handicapper isn't too hard on him.

Papamoa

Fun here this morning, weather OK, some jumping, some on the all-weather others hacking about. Big decision required as to whether to send the Buffalo south to take on the big guns on his first start on Saturday, otherwise Sedgefield Tuesday the next stop.

Oh, and let's not forget the fixture list, announced yesterday and looks fine......

Hexham

2011-11-15T13:51:00.000Z

Capital Venture

A grey sort of week here so far, quiet and mild though so long may it last. Horses mostly been on the all-weather here and a sortie to Lucinda's woodchip this morning involving The Paddy Premium, Here's to Harry and Amulree. After a couple of winners the yard feels busy and industrious, lot of people working hard, plenty of visitors and the horses appear in good order.
We have 3 runners at Hexham tomorrow, Lucy rides them all and the ground is soft with some heavy places on the chase track and good to soft places on the hurdle track.
Capital Venture runs in the 1.40, 8 run, 2m NH Novice Hurdle, a few decent looking horses and I'm not sure he will like the ground much however the small field and stiffish track should suit well and he is ready for a run.
Papamoa runs in the 2.10, 2m 4f handicap hurdle,12 run, ground should be perfect for him will improve when he goes up to 3 miles but the testing conditions and uphill finish will play to his strengths and he seems well.
Seeking Power runs in the 2.40, 4m handicap chase, 10 run, conditions to suit and horse in great form but is 6lb out of the handicap and would have a better chance carrying more weight against lesser horses, can expect a big run if they go a gentle pace.
Lucy then rides Boston Court in the 3.40 for Wilf Storey.

Seeking Power just denied for the 2nd time last season by Matmata de Tendron, they meet again tomorrow - 3rd time lucky?

Slow Sunday

2011-11-13T09:19:00.001Z

Seeking Power (Kelly)

Ah, the delight of a 7am alarm rather than the standard 6am, horses always especially pleased to see me on a Sunday, breakfast is late, Forcefield bucking in his stable waiting for his, a sign that he is over his exertions on Friday. My own breakfast spent watching yesterday's racing from Cheltenham, unlucky Noble Alan, fantastic for the Pipes and the shrewd Ferdy nearly pulls it off, was that really the same horse that pulled up at Carlisle less than a fortnight ago? Morning in the office, weekly reports to owners, plans to be made, potter about the yard taking time to look at a few issues that might have been puzzling me. Friends for lunch, Cheltenham on TV, when will we be playing on this stage? Before too long I think. Time at last to talk to Lucy about last week's rides, where she is going this week, what she thinks about my plans for the horses, little things to tweak the routine and facilities here. Not much racing up here this week, its a shame, November produces nice ground but there is a dearth of fixtures, plenty in December and January but always the dreaded weather hanging over us by then; we are heading to Hexham on Wednesday where we have Seeking Power, Papamoa, Capital Venture and Sydney Cove entered, hope to run the first three, might leave Sydney for another week. May make a specualtive entry for Haydock's big meeting on Saturday, the Buffalo is nearly ready to rumble, can't decide if he's feeling one of his shins a little bit though, something for me to go and puzzle over....

Boom boom

2011-11-12T10:10:00.001Z

Forcefield

Ho, ho, another memorable winner yesterday when Forcefield came good in the 3m handicap hurdle at Newcastle yesterday, backed in from 28-1 to 14-1 he crept into the race under a supremely patient and confident ride. It was Lucy's first winner for the yard since Feb 2010 since when we have had 14 winners ridden by other jockeys, so you can understand it was quite an important monkey to get off our backs and we then had the fun (?) of giving a live TV interview together for the first time, nice for me to creep back into the limelight!

Back down to earth with a bump when Lucy came off Isla Pearl Fisher at the third last in the 3m handicap chase, he was unsighted by the horse in front veering across him going into the jump causing him to blunder badly. He was travelling well at the time and clearly going to play a major part in the finish, frustrating but hugely encouraging to see that the horse has clearly retained all his ability and no harm was done, he's as bright as a button this morning.

Today Lucy rides two at Wetherby, in the 1.45 she rides Panthers Run and in the 2.25 she rides Oniz Tiptoes. I shall be listening from my phone on the touchline of Merchiston vs Glenalmond U14s, that strange man on his phone jumping up and down gesticulating again........

Newcastle

2011-11-10T14:15:00.000Z

Forcefield & Isla Pearl Fisher take each other on in the surf at St Andrews late last year

So, quiet week weather-wise, fair and mild, and tomorrow its off to Newcastle for their inaugural jumps fixture of the winter. We run Forcefield in the 1.35, 17 run, and then Isla Pearl Fisher faces 8 others in the 3.20, Lucy rides both and the ground should be generally good. Forcefield was 3rd off a 13lb higher mark at the track in March, that was 4f shorter on much softer ground and he appears to have lost his way since but he seems well at home and could put up a decent effort in this sort of race. Isla Pearl Fisher has been off since injuring himself at the end of January, prior to that he was progressive and his form stacks up well; he seems fit and ready so let's hope he can continue from where he left off.....
Meanwhile Mr & Mrs A are practising being "empty-nesters" and earlier this week we had our 2nd night alone at home in the last 21 years, time to revert to type and head off to the local curry house to fill up, tremendous, and Mrs A has lost none of her ability to down pints of Cobra just as quickly as me, 25st here I (we?) come....... and then last night (Lucy back so lettuce back on the menu) the wonderful Frozen Planet, perhaps the best wildlife doc ever? I think so, and David A's narration is made perfect by his silences letting the animals take over - did you see those terns attacking the polar bear? wow........

Ah

2011-11-08T17:07:00.000Z

Ah, human again today, yesterday I felt as though I had spent the weekend being run over by a very slow moving steam roller. "Dreich" weather, whole country apparently, at least it will prevent the ground drying up at Newcastle before Friday. Important final piece of work on the grass for the potential runners this morning and very pleased with Capital Venture, Isla Pearl Fisher, Forcefield and Isla Patriot. Lucy good 2nd in the last at Sedgie, remains in England riding out for another day or two. Interesting trend developing in people ringing me up and congratulating me on Lucy's success but completely failing to mention my runners, even when they win and that includes my own Mother who I had to politely ask if she had managed to watch the 2.10 at Hexham, "oh no" she siad, "did you have a runner?" - think I better get used to it........

Humdrum Monday

2011-11-07T18:22:00.000Z

Cold and foggy today, horses mostly exercised in the school and on the all-weather, no joy for Lucy at Carlisle, tomorrow she rides at Sedgefield, Bunacurry in the 3.30 and Stanley Bridge in the 4.00, both for Barry Murtagh. No runners from here until Newcastle on Friday, Four Fiddlers continues to improve rapidly which is excellent news.

Taming Lions

2011-11-06T18:40:00.002Z

Four Fiddlers runs into the back of Dark Glacier when he slammed the brakes on going into the first at Kelso

Lucy is subsequently ejected from the saddle

Another favourite expression, Ferdy Murphy's saying that "this game tames lions" sprang to mind after a roller coaster day at Kelso yesterday; at the first hurdle in the first race a horse I adore Four Fiddlers had a nasty collision with the well-backed favourite leaving Lucy on the ground, he galloped loose for two circuits then pulled up lame, he had a painful swelling on his side and after another 30 minutes could barely move at all, he was transferred to the RDVS Equine Hospital for further examination and kept in overnight; I was hugely relieved to be advised that there is no internal damage just bad bruising leading to a large haemotoma, I collected him this morning and he is already on the road to recovery - phew!

Happier times, Lucy drives Storm Surge clear

Later in the afternoon Lucy had her third winner in three days when Storm Surge romped home in the 2 mile handicap chase, on the ground one minute, cloud nine the next! Tomorrow at Carlisle she rides Battle Honour for Susan Bradburne in the 1.20 and Ballycarberry in the 4.05 for Lucy Normile, we have Sydney Cove in at Sedgefield on Tuesday and will see how he is tomorrow before deciding on a quick reappearance, otherwise next runners likely to be at Newcastle on Friday.

All smiles now!

It had been quite a day, celebrations on Friday evening after a long day had left me feeling slightly bleary first thing and this wasn't helped by the lights fusing as I was feeding the horses at 6.15am, I then managed to bog my car when out trying to follow first lot and had to abandon it and borrow Mrs A's to rush to Kelso and then all of the above happened, it was wonderful after all of that to be able to head off to a local party with a blond bird in the evening....

The Alexander house party for Mr David Stanistreet's 50th Birthday Party assemble before departure

Boom boom

2011-11-04T19:03:00.000Z

Sydney Cove

The little fish are sweet, as the great WA Stephenson said as he watched The Thinker win the Cheltenham Gold Cup from his beloved Hexham, and right now for me there is no little fish sweeter than Sydney Cove who battled bravely to win his first race today under Keith Mercer. Sheikh Mohammed bred "Sydney" and until today he has lived very much in the shadow of his Group winning siblings but, whilst it was a lowly race, I can assure you the pleasure he gave his connections today will have matched anything his illustrious brothers have achieved. It is deeply rewarding to win a race with a horse other trainers have given up on and Lisa Ogilvie deserves credit for giving this horse another chance to shine and taking time to work him out; another colourful chapter in the book could be written, it was a team effort and particular credit should go to our physios Grania and Gillian as well as Gemma and Lucy who have done most of the work with him at home, he is not straightforward! It was of course a shame that Lucy was not on board and therefore all the more pleasing that she had a good winner later in the afternoon on Danny John Boy, I was on my way home by then but am hoarse from shouting at my hands free as "Tommo" called her home, haven't seen it yet but it sounded like a tremendous ride, something to enjoy this evening when the "man from Beijing" arrives. It is also worth pointing out (and I hope the owners won't mind) that the last three horses to win for this stable have cost an average of just under £2500......

Four Fiddlers

Tomorrow we run Four Fiddlers for Dan and Michelle Macdonald in the 12.25 at Kelso, Lucy rides, 14 run, ground easy side of good, this is a decent horse but this looks competitive and I am uncertain whether the extended trip will be a help or hindrance........ will know tomorrow!

So

2011-11-03T21:27:00.001Z

Bizarrely mild this evening and I am informed that children were bathing in the sea at my golf club's beach this afternoon. I've certainly never been as warm jump racing at Musselburgh, only 2 nights ago it was cold enough for us to be doubling up the horses' rugs - what is going on? Rather wish I had stuck with my original decision re running today, neither horse was suited by the race, too sharp for Ocarina and The Paddy Premium was right up there turning for home before appearing not to stay, back to 2 miles for him. Nevertheless at least my indecision produced a handy dividend in the form of an excellent winner for Lucy on Fred Bojangles, delighted, but all too much going on for me! Early starts all round tomorrow, 4.45 am for Lucy as she heads to ride out for Rose Dobbin on her way to Hexham where she has no less than 5 rides and 5.30 for me as Sydney Cove will need an early brekkie prior to his journey to Hexham, he runs in the 2.10, 12 run I think, good to soft ground, Keith Mercer rides, Lucy otherwise engaged....

Volte-face

2011-11-02T12:23:00.002Z

The Paddy Premium enjoys his pre-race bath this morning

Hmm, after deciding not run at Musselburgh tomorrow further consideration of the likely ground and a bit of rain in the forecast forced an about-turn and we run two in the 3.30, a 2m 4f Handicap Chase. Ocarina with Harry Haynes on board and The Paddy Premium with Wilson Renwick, ground should be good - I will walk it on arrival - 10 run including Fred Bojangles ridden by Lucy who I had unfortunately released imagining we weren't participating. Lucy also rides All American in the 4.00 for Alan Swinbank; Alan is widely regarded as one of the best bumper trainers in the country and I am delighted that he has the confidence in Lucy to put her up on these decent un-raced horses.

Buffalo Ballet (Lucy) with Isla Pearl Fisher (Amy) on Lucinda's woodchip last week

Another fine morning back here and a really useful one with plenty of them working on the grass, catching the eye was Buffalo Ballet........ he's going to start keeping me awake at night!

Whip again!

2011-11-01T17:08:00.000Z

Decent sort of weather today and a busy one, this morning some of them did quicker stuff on the all-weather, Here's to Harry, Seeking Power and Forcefield worked on Lucinda's woodchip (here's to Harry particularly impressive) and Peter Buchanan was in this afternoon to teach some of the youngsters to jump including one of last week's recruits, Goldtrek who was a natural. Peter reported that he picked up the first whip ban of his 7 year career last week at Uttoxeter, not for excessive use but for a technicality that had changed (unbeknown to him) regarding the time a horse should be given to respond to the whip. Peter is a superb horseman and for him to be banned for what is effectively a welfare issue indicates to me that the new rules are profoundly flawed, lots of us, including many jockeys have failed to pick up on the minutiae of the changes and clearly my initial welcoming of the changes was misplaced, though I was always disappointed by the manner of their introduction.

Here's to Harry (Gemma)

Anyway, enough of that, not sure I will be declaring anything for Musselburgh; good, good to firm in places is probably a bit quick for me so it looks like Hexham Friday and Kelso Saturday, excellent card at the latter which I expect will draw another huge crowd - where does all the money go?

Bliss

2011-10-31T14:24:00.002Z

A little more daylight is always welcome..

is..... the clocks going back, once a year, an extra hour, badly needed after 3 trips to Edinburgh in the previous 24 hours aside from everything else that is going on, impatient though - are those "average speed" cameras that are to plague us for 5 miles on the M90 actually live, can anyone report "being done"? - I hope not because if so I am in trouble, I just can't help myself and to compound it all I was nabbed by a plain clothes car just South of the roadworks on Saturday afternoon, infuriating but if those cameras are working I suspect I will be requiring a driver - FINGERS CROSSED - and self-control the new mantra. Anyway, a quiet Sunday and time to reflect and plan, horses seem in good order and am very keen for more runners, plenty of entries at Musselburgh, Hexham, Kelso and Carlisle over the next week. Rode the three horses from the sales this morning; Academy who was then gelded, Goldtrek and Issabella Gem - they all appear to have settled in nicely, we will teach them to jump and then make plans......

What on earth is he about to say?

Soggy

2011-10-29T12:54:00.001+01:00

Who is this taking her first steps onto Kinneston?

Half an inch of rain overnight and its back to sodden conditions, only light showers this morning and the horses all worked on the all-weather, new arrivals introduced to horsewalker, Northern Flame and the pointers jumped coloured poles in the school then NF went for a four mile scamper round the flat ground, not even puffing at the end, schools rugby beckons this afternoon then theatre tonight to see James Corden in One Man, two Guvnors; absolutely no idea what it will be like!

Well..

2011-10-28T16:03:00.002+01:00

The excessive demand for racing opportunities in the North at present meant that our two intended runners on Sunday were both ballotted out, not a disaster but frustrating for connections, particularly for those involved with Northern Flame who was due to have one more run to help us evaluate whether to continue to run him under rules or try a point-point. We will now have to take that decision before Monday without the help of another run, he missed the "cut" by one and I am confident there will be non-runners by the time Sunday comes round, I fail to understand why the BHA can't run a reserve system like they do in Ireland as it doesn't help trainers to sell the sport when horses are ballotted out of races that end up undersubscribed...Lucy rides Phoenix Returns in the 4.20 at Carlisle on Sunday for Alan Swinbank, the entire field are making their racecourse debut, Alan always has his horses well prepared..

So, that minor grumble is off my chest, a fine morning here; Isla Pearl Fisher, Amulree and Buffalo Ballet went to work on Lucinda's woodchip, the others did steady canters for a couple of miles on the stubble. Frank Cornfield was in to take some photographs and put the finishing touches to two new ownership opportunities that we are putting together, both intended to enable people to become involved with the excitement of racehorse ownership here at a very affordable level - watch this space!

Big excitement though was the arrival at lunchtime of three horses from Newmarket Sales, I have hardly been able to sleep all week in anticipation of their arrival and I wasn't disappointed when they came off the lorry, over the moon!

Someone wondered why nobody leaves comments on this blog, probably because they've fallen asleep reading it, do comment if you feel like it, at least then I know somebody's read it........ should have some runners next week - Musselburgh Thursday, Hexham Friday and Kelso Saturday are all on the radar screen

Quiet Thursday

2011-10-27T14:46:00.000+01:00

Four Fiddlers

Dry today, a bit cool, a quieter day on the yard with Four Fiddlers and Northern Flame jumping 8 hurdles each ahead of their potential engagements this weekend, most of the rest had a long hack apart from the point-to-pointers who all had their first canter - Massini Man, Commercial Express and Flaming Thistle - all very fresh and enthusiastic. Working on transport arrangements and stabling for 3 new arrivals due here tomorrow.......

Exciting times..

2011-10-26T17:14:00.001+01:00

It feels like the week has just begun but Wednesday evening already, oh dear, showery afternoon after a lovely morning but the ground remains sodden after yet more rain yesterday. Monday was fair and we had a fox control visit from the Fife Foxhounds, luckily my furry friends escaped but good to see the hounds out and in particular to see ex promising young jockey Ryan Mania clearly enjoying his new job as whipper-in, there was also a good representation from Lucinda's expanding band of point-to-pointers including Peter Buchanan, remarkably fresh at 8am on Monday after a productive weekend riding in the States where he won a race and was 3rd in their Grand National.

Northern Flame

A 4.15am alarm yesterday for a long day at Newmarket's Horses in Training Sale, 1400 flat horses selling this week and an eclectic range of buyers from around the globe, some wonderful horses and having struggled to hit the mark in the morning I was exceptionally pleased with the two horses I ended up buying later in the day, sometimes one can feel a little flat (and tired) on the way back from the sales but I was over the moon this time and smiled the whole way home, arriving at about 10.30pm. Sharp start again this morning and 3 horses over to Lucinda's woodchip; The Paddy Premium, Capital Venture and Papamoa all worked nicely and I am looking forward to them running again soon though given the weather here I am a little perplexed to hear they are planning to water at Musselburgh, must be on a different planet! Back here we worked Isla Pearl Fisher, Isla Patriot, Amulree, Four Fiddlers, Buffalo Ballet and Here's to Harry on the grass with the rest working on our cushiontrack. Entries this weekend at Carlisle where we will be hoping Northern Flame pulls as hard as he did following the hounds....

Just another Saturday morning..

2011-10-22T12:39:00.001+01:00

Some pictures from first lot today..

You might call this a water trough, I would call it a bidet...

Heading up....

and away..

Back down...

Something's funny..

Ah, the sheep...

Seeking Power (Jen)

Four Fiddlers

Papamoa

Ocarina

Forcefield

Grimmus Maximus

2011-10-21T12:32:00.001+01:00

Describes the weather earlier this morning, low cloud, howling gale and soft but persistent rain, 10 degrees warmer than yesterday but brighter now (well, less dull) and a good morning's work with Isla Pearl Fisher, Sydney Cove and Here's to Harry going over to Lucinda's woodchip (the latter's first time ever off the farm aged four and a bit - how about that, there's a big world out there.....). Back here Ocarina and The Paddy Premium worked on the grass and the rest (due to work tomorrow) either lobbed round on the grass for 3 miles or popped up and down the all weather a few times (depending on their propensity for pulling arms out of sockets on the grass.) No runners from here this weekend but she who is now beginning to clock up rather a serious mileage is riding at Stratford tomorrow; Fool's Wildcat for Gordon Elliot in the 2.20 and Nevsky Bridge for Bruce Hellier in the 5.00pm. I think she needs to find a sponsor - any ideas?

Here's to Harry (Gemma)

Oh and by the way, the BHA appear to have acceeded to nearly all the PJA demands on alterations to the whip rules, they've rescinded the bans imposed so far which means Soumillon will rightly collect his £55k and Hughes will be back riding at Newbury this afternoon........ and they all lived happily ever after.. maybe... perhaps there is no such thing as bad publicity (2nd item only to Gadaffi on Radio 4 10.00am news bulletin today - move over Sarkozy & Merkel) but all so unnecessary and badly handled by the BHA, the Chairman took full responsibility... is his position really tenable now.........

Frosty

2011-10-20T09:43:00.001+01:00

First frost of the year winter today after an inch of rain on Monday and some blustery conditions since then, a real joy to be out with the horses this morning in cold crisp sunshine, most worked yesterday so a quietish day lobbing along steadily on the grass for about two miles, all seem relaxed and focussed. No runners for us today at Carlisle, a little soft for Isla Pearl Fisher and Sydney Cove balloted out; we will have a couple of entries at Haydock next week otherwise likely to be back at Carlisle on the 30th for our next runners. Lucy rides Emotive today for Barry Murtagh in the 2.55.

Pete (Lucy)

Champions Day

2011-10-16T11:34:00.001+01:00

Capital Venture (courtesy of Dennis Penny)

An average sort of day at the office yesterday, Capital Venture jumped nicely on his hurdling debut but the tacky ground blunted his cruising speed a little and he finished midfield, he will come on hugely for this experience. The Paddy Premium's training had an interupted pattern since his run at Perth but he jumped and travelled well until they turned for home and he should also improve. Northern Flame did little to silence his doubters looking unenthusiastic from flagfall, but he ran to the line and we will run him again soon. Forcefield seemed to appreciate being ridden a bit handier but was on and off the bridle finishing mid-div in the end, hopefully the handicapper will give him a chance soon, 6 races later he is still paying the penalty of finishing within 16 lengths of the Grand National winner Ballabrigs. All ate up and sound this morning so plenty to look forward to.
A magnificent day's racing at Ascot and the wonderful Frankel duly made it 9 out of 9; it was a fantastic starting point for the new "Champions Day" concept and it gives RFC a great mandate going forward as many sceptics (including myself) were hugely encouraged by the sheer quality of the racing across the board, they just need Newmarket to release a couple of 2yo Group Ones and perhaps tweak the date and they will be there, I think it proves that if you put up the money the horses will come. The quality racing fortunately overshadowed the whip fiasco but the penalties imposed on Christophe Soumillon did highlight the absurdity of the detail of the rules and the manner of their introduction. Sadly this typifies so much that emanates from the BHA, like it or not the stakeholders have no confidence left and the embattled Chairman sounded pretty desperate when interviewed yesterday by Nick Luck (listen here), however everyone must take heart from the success of yesterday, I reiterate my thoughts of last month that where there is a sport that provides so much fun and excitement to so many people the laws of supply and demand will ensure it succeeds in the long term. I've never known Kelso as busy as yesterday and there are over 250 entries at Carlisle on Thursday, including two from here, Sydney Cove and Isla Pearl Fisher..........

Isla Pearl Fisher

Big big day

2011-10-14T14:57:00.001+01:00

Oh dear, British racing's biggest day tomorrow and the whole thing is being overshadowed by controversy regarding the new whip rules, most unfortunate and now the jockeys are thinking of striking on Monday. BHA not looking clever, the magnitude of change was such that they should have phased the rules in gradually and this scenario could have been avoided, as a result the racing authorities appear in disarray and of course the press are making hay. A noticeable turnaround in opinion from many leading figures in the industry (McCoy, Nicholls etc) which doesn't say much for them, personally, I stick to my guns, in the long term the changes will prove worthwhile but the manner of their intoduction has been crass.
Still, huge day at Ascot and sports fans quite like a bit of controversy so maybe more people will end up paying attention to it, and a big day for us at Kelso where there are 8 races including 4 maximum fields; ground is good to soft and we have 4 runners, all with Lucy on board...

Capital Venture (Lucy Henry)

The Paddy Premium (rt) at Perth

Northern Flame (Emma)

Forcefield (Lucy Henry)

We run Capital Venture for Ray Calder and Jan Scott in the 2.45, 14 run - hmm, this is a smashing horse with a high class pedigree that won his bumper over course and distance last time out, new trainer now though and I deliberately haven't been hard on him, he seems very well and I will know a lot more about him after tomorrow's run. In the 4.30 we run the enigmatic Northern Flame for the Peglegs, 11 run, first time blinkers as last season his attitude came into question, he would probably prefer better ground but I am just looking for him to show some sort of desire to finish ahead of some of the other horses. In the 5.05 we run Mark Fleming's The Paddy Premium, 7 run, the handicapper was tough on him for his win at Perth in June considering he is 11 and he didn't relent after running back there in September and he is likely to continue to come up against improving younger horses, we are giving him some assistance this time via Lucy's 7lb claim. In the 5.40 we run Forcefield, 16 run, first time visor, 2nd top weight but in great form and hoping for a decent effort. Lucy also goes for the three-timer on Pete in the 3.55.....

And now........ Frankel

2011-10-10T08:22:00.000+01:00

A quiet Sunday at last and some time to catch up in the office, reflect on the recent runners and make plans for the coming week. Isla Patriot wound himself up a bit at the start at Hexham on Saturday but he bowled along nicely at the front for almost two circuits, just tiring when he met the hill at the end, there were plenty of positives to take away from the run. On reflection last week's runners all did well enough but unsurprisingly needed their races and will come on for them, they are all fit and well this morning.
This week we will have plenty of entries at Kelso on Saturday and Lucy has possibilities all over the country all week but schooling here this morning first (most important!). New whip rules in force from today, bound to be controversial but hopefully the racing world's attention will be focussed on the appearance of the mighty Frankel on Saturday at Ascot's inaugural Champion's Day, wherever you are on Saturday, don't miss this...

The mighty Frankel

Sweet Pete

2011-10-08T09:39:00.001+01:00

Pete

It was fitting that Pete, the horse that gave Lucy her last winner as an amateur should also provide her with her first winner as a professional yesterday at Carlisle when he just held on by a nose in a ding-dong battle up the run-in. Earlier in the afternoon she had been runner up on Proud Times, 4th on Four Fiddlers and 6th on Ocarina, the latter two representing this stable. I was happy enough with both of them, Four Fiddlers travelled into the race strongly before running out of steam after the last, he had a small hold up early on in his training and I suspect that told, Ocarina was a bit free and gassy on the first circuit which took the edge off his finish. Today we run Isla Patriot in the 3.55 at Hexham, Campbell Gillies rides, 10 run and the going will be on the quick side of good. He is stepping up in trip which I have been waiting to do but may find an easier opportunity. Lucy rides Little Missmoffat in the 2.40 for the Hamiltons.

Isla Patriot

Stepping Up

2011-10-06T14:51:00.001+01:00

We step up another gear tomorrow with two runners at Carlisle's opening meeting of the season; Ray Calder's Ocarina makes his stable debut in the 2.45, Lucy rides, 11 run and the ground should be good, I will be having a good look at the track and if they miss the showers and there is much good to firm in it he will come out. He is a big strong experienced chaser that I am delighted to be training, he seems fit and well. We then run Dan and Michelle Macdonald's Four Fiddlers in the 3.20, again Lucy rides and 12 run. This is being run on the new hurdle track and the ground is meant to be good, this is a horse with plenty of potential but tomorrow's race is pretty competitive and as ever I would just like him to run well. Lucy has a couple of other good rides, Proud Times in the 2.10 for Alan Swinbank and Pete in the 5.00 for Barry Murtagh, both have a chance.
Filthy here today, horrid cold rain being blown in on squally showers - all the horses were on the all--weather this morning and Louisa is braving it as I write teaching "the Buffalo" some dressage - tee hee. call it "thumb's revenge!"

Ocarina

One thing that has me very puzzled is the strength in the yearling market, Tattersalls Newmarket sale yesterday had turnover/average/and median all up by 40-60% on this day last year, difficult to correlate with the general economic gloom, is this a lead indicator or an irrelevance, who knows....

Four Fiddlers

Heart of a lion, a day of dreams

2011-10-05T07:38:00.001+01:00

Big wind again today but quiet day in general for the horses after excellent work yesterday. Home alone last night so fat-boy pizza and ice cream and a chance to sit down and enjoy the BBC coverage from Longchamp on Sunday; well, I thought it was just great, former Northern jump jockey Tom Eaves takes his first Group 1 on the most glamorous stage of all on a horse trained at the top of Sutton Bank, then Dream Ahead runs the race of his life to deny the awesome Goldikova a winning swansong in front of her home crowd and then..... a EU9,000 diminutive German filly shoots clear off the best horses in the world to break the track record and claim racing's greatest prize, just fanatastic and the canny Japanese had already purchased her before the race to capture those very special German genes. I have been banging on about the virtues of the German breeding system all summer to anyone that would care to listen and it appears to be going from strength to strength...

Danedream

Big Breeze

2011-10-04T16:04:00.000+01:00

A big breeze today and a busy morning with nine horses doing important pieces of work; firstly Four Fiddlers, Buffalo Ballet and Isla Pearl Fisher on Lucinda's woodchip then Isla Patriot, Seeking Power and Forcefield on the grass here and finally Ocarina, Capital Venture and Northern Flame on the grass again. All pleased me though Seeking Power doesn't seem to be getting any faster, still must be the slowest horse in training but give him 4 miles a stiff track and heavy ground and he comes into his own! The others all cantered on the all-weather or grass.

Isla Pearl Fisher (Amy)

2011-10-03T07:28:00.000+01:00

Back to autumn weather this week, very breezy, showers and turning colder after a mild start. 10 riding out here this morning, plan to school over fences then Louisa in to do flatwork with some this afternoon, I have the "Buffalo" on her list, point blank refused to do anything with her last time and nearly took my thumb off feeding yesterday but most impressive work with Four Fiddlers on Saturday so I will forgive him most things, likely to be busy, meant to be my office day - will do my best! A fine start to Kelso's season yesterday despite some rather inclement weather, we achieved exactly what we wanted to do with Sydney Cove, he was very keen, I am sure we will get there with him given time. This week we have entries at Carlisle on Friday and Hexham on Saturday, ho ho, and what a surprise in the Arc, first three home all fillies and a somewhat overlooked outsider from Germany romps home in a record time, Herr Schiergen paid EU100,000 to supplement her for the race, he clearly knew what he had in his hands!

Sydney Cove

A hump with a view (apologies to EM Forster)

2011-09-30T12:17:00.001+01:00

We know that the National Hunt season must be resuming in earnest when we head back to Kelso, and they have an excellent 8 race card on Sunday to kick off the season. We run Sydney Cove for Lisa Ogilvie in the 5pm; he is making his debut for the stable, Lucy rides, 14 run and the ground should be good. He is a well-bred but head strong sort of horse and the object on Sunday (as it has been for the last month) will be to try to teach him to relax and enjoy his racing, he has a nice handiap mark and if we can sort this out then he should be effective. Lucy has a three other rides on Sunday; King's Chorister in the 2.05, Stanley Bridge in the 4.25 and Waterski in the 5.30 she will be doing her best to get her first winner as a pro on the board, this afternoon she rides Bunacurry in the 5.25 at Hexham.
Another glorious morning today, I even had to remove some of the horses' rugs when I was feeding them at 6.15 as they were sweating - completely unprecedented for the time of year & something's up with the cattle as well! Some images from this morning at Kinneston....

A hump with a view.....

Isla Pearl Fisher (Amy) leads first lot up the all-weather

Cooling Down

Heading Home

Four Fiddlers (Emma) heading home from 2nd lot

Now..

2011-09-28T13:55:00.000+01:00

.. what have we done to deserve this, glorious sunshine and temperatures in low 20s, straw being baled, horses basking in the fields, trainer in his deckchair (ha ha). First decent summers day since, well, longer than I can remember, I'm confused and nature is confused, several horses have their winter coats and were dripping this morning, first two due to be clipped this afternoon. A few house martins and swallows still hanging about, normally well gone by now, and only one small skein of migratory geese seen so far - apparently there are lots around Montrose but normally we see thousands by now, too hot, they knew. Constructive morning, some working on the all-weather others enjoy slow steady canters for a couple of miles round fresh stubble fields, all calm, until........ Joey (Mrs A's number one beloved) ate the plumbers' lunch (already had the farrier's and the vet's in recent history) - panic - all bread in house mouldy, time to hide in office and blog......

Update

2011-09-27T08:38:00.000+01:00

A bit damp here but harvest finished last night and indian summer on the way, today Lucy rides Daytime Dreamer in the 3.50 at Sedgefield for Martin Todhunter, he has been in good form on the flat but has a few questions to answer back over hurdles in what looks like a competitive race. We have Isla Patriot entered at Hexham on Friday and then Northern Flame and Sydney Cove in at Kelso on Sunday. Busy here with Ocarina, Capital Venture and Four Fiddlers heading to Lucinda's woodchip and the rest working on our own all-weather.

The Paddy Premium (courtesy of Dennis Penny)

Le soleil

2011-09-24T11:44:00.000+01:00

Yes, the sun made a rare appearance today, a glorious autumn morning and after a bit more rain tomorrow night we are going to enjoy some much needed better weather for a few days, harvest can be finished, straw baled and the grass gallops rested. Plenty of action here this morning with next week's potential runners doing some faster work and the youngsters stepping up a bit, a few snaps below...

It's probably of very little interest to anyone but if you use twitter then do follow @kinneston - throughout the winter I intend to update regarding runners, going changes, Lucy's progress and also probably quite a lot of completely irrelevant drivel (not more they sigh!) as and when I remember!

Seeking Power (Kelly)

Isla Patriot (Holly)

Seeking Power, Isla Patriot and Sydney Cove (Kit)

A quiet hack for some...