Friday 7th October, 2022

Corrany once again ran very well to be placed yesterday at Worcester in the three mile handicap chase.  Travelling better throughout the race on this occasion and jumping very well, he stayed on up the straight to be beaten just over four lengths by the winner.

The ground was quicker than his previous race which did not help him as he is blessed with plenty of stamina.  However hopefully we will be able to get a win out of him soon, especially if we can find a race in the right grade over a further trip on a staying course.

The October meeting at Chepstow has always traditionally kicked off the proper jumps season, however with the ground still good to firm, like many courses throughout Britain, conditions are not proving safe for all horses.  We will need a fair bit of rain to ease the going in many parts of the country but no doubt it will arrive soon and there will be plenty of opportunities for everyone.

Tomorrow at Newmarket the Cesarewitch is staged once again with Nicky Henderson saddling the favourite, Ahorsewithnoname, who was not only placed at the Cheltenham Festival but the winner of two decent staying handicaps on the flat this season.

Often in these staying handicaps it is wise to stick with those that train plenty of jump winners and good luck to Gibraltar who is owned by Ed Ware and has shown good recent form for W Mullins.

The race before is the Dewhurst Stakes which always throws up Classic clues for next year and it looks a fascinating contest with Nostrum trained by Sir Michael Stoute being the favourite.  Chaldene should give him a run for his money whilst Godolphin and Coolmore are represented by Naval Power and Aesop’s Fables.

A small but select field and if you witnessed the prices of yearlings at this year’s Book 1 Sale at Tattersalls, with millions being paid, especially for sons and daughters of Frankel and Dubawi – it’s hard to compete with the big battalions.

This weeks results prove that despite uncompetitive prize money, many of the world’s best horses are bred in Britain and Ireland and thankfully also raced here.  Long may this be the case.