Monday 10th March, 2025

A busy Monday on the eve of the Festival with lots of visitors, including some of Idas Boy’s owners who came to see him in action on the gallops.  The Jockey Club comms team also visited to film him in preparation for his Grand National run which will be used on their social media channels on the build up to the big day.

We don’t have any entries until the end of the week but hopefully we will have plenty of runners next week as the ground dries out but hopefully not too much.

Festival fever has certainly begun and I’ve been lucky enough to attend a few previews including the annual one at the Fleece in Bretforton last night organised by former senior handicapper Phil Smith.  It was great to be on the panel along with bookmaker and pro-punter Andy Smith, Lee Mottershead and Jonjo Jnr.  All races were discussed and as ever a million views exchanged.

It will be fascinating to see how many of the runners cope with the drying ground this week as many have been racing on a far softer surface this winter.  Whatever your views of who will be victorious, it is a great opportunity to view some equine stars in action with Majborough, Constitution Hill, Jonbon and Galopin Des Champs all likely odds on shots.

Good luck to all and may it be safe one for all horses and riders.