Friday 28th July, 2023

Shibuya Song ran creditably at Newbury last night.  They went a very slow pace to the straight when the whole field quickened and although she was in contention with two to run, she faded in the last half furlong, probably due to ground conditions.  However Georgia Dobie reported that she was tough in going for a gap when challenging in the straight, despite being hampered.  We will look for something for her on some nicer ground – possibly over a shorter trip in August.

We took Sheila Nash out of her race at Worcester due to the soft ground and will aim her for a race back at the track on Tuesday or consider Perth on Wednesday.

Before going to Newbury yesterday, I was delighted to speak to some students from the Riding A Dream Academy at Solihull Riding Club.  The Academy is industry led and supports talented young riders from diverse communities, under privileged backgrounds and urban equestrian centres throughout Britain.

It was great to meet them and speak to them about the benefits of working in the racing industry and I look forward to members of the Academy coming to work here at Adlestrop and at other yards in Britain in the future.

As previously stated, my favourite race of the year on the flat is the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot and tomorrow’s race looks to be one to savour.  The Derby winner and runner up take on the older generation led by Hukum, Emily Upjohn, Westover and last year’s winner Pyledriver.

With soft ground anticipated it should be a fascinating contest and with ground conditions as they are, I’m hoping that Emily Upjohn will be seen at her best now back over her favoured trip with Frankie Dettori back onboard.  Good luck to all and may the best horse win.