Saturday 3rd January, 2025

The Last Drop is declared at Ludlow on Monday in the two miles five, novices handicap hurdle run at 3.15pm.  She did not cope with the very heavy ground at Uttoxeter last time and with the freezing conditions, the meeting is in doubt but we have other options for her at the end of the week so hopefully the weather will warm up a bit.  The Last Drop definitely has the ability to be competitive with conditions in her favour.

Bluenose Belle is entered at Taunton on Thursday in the mares handicap hurdle.  Once again it is dependant on the weather but hopefully ground conditions will suit as she ran an excellent second in her last race.

Dora Vita ran pleasingly on her debut at Wolverhampton on Monday.  She was slow out of the stalls due to being stood in them for some time but made headway and was not beaten too far by some useful types and I am sure she will come on for the run.  Callum Hutchinson thought that she would be competitive once in handicap company and we look forward to her running again soon.

Elfride travelled and jumped well until the straight at Uttoxeter on Wednesday but stopped rather quickly.  We will investigate as to why this happened as we were pleased with her comeback run at Exeter previously.

Sad to hear of the passing of legendary trainer Ian Balding.  Trainer of the mighty Mill Reef, his influence on racing has been immense.  He had a passion for sport in general and particularly both flat and jump racing.  A keen and talented sportsman, he was a brilliant full back in rugby and a gifted horseman.  His name and spirit will continue for years to come thanks to his children Clare and Andrew and surely his finest decision was his wonderful wife Emma.