Monday 6th June, 2022

Off to Southwell today to saddle Corrany in the three-mile handicap hurdle at 2.45pm.  He is gradually dropping down the handicap but is still top weight in this race, however Finn Lambert takes off seven pounds.  Hopefully as he comes down in grade he will be competitive again as he definitely has plenty of ability.

Delighted to attend Saturday’s Derby at Epsom which had a really good feel to it.  As ever, it began with a course walk which is always a great way to start the day.

Although gone are the days when the Downs are packed with people, there was much to do and certainly the crowds were roaring the horses home in some exciting finishes.  However, whoever thought of setting a firework off before the race I’m sure will think again about such ventures in the future.

All in all a great Derby with the winner being both impressive and trained by one of the all time greats.  I do hope you took the advice in backing Hoo Ya Mal each way.

It was great to see many friends who were attending, including Willie Newton who I worked with many years ago and sculpted Lester’s statue which nobly stands at the course where he showed such prowess.

We were all thinking of him on the day, as we were of Her Majesty – who although was not in attendance, was very much with us.  This weekend’s festivities were a joy to witness and never again in history will there be a person so admired by so many.