Tuesday 12th November, 2024

We have made some more entries for next week on courses that might be able to provide some safe ground.  Much has been said about the lack of rain and therefore the lack of runners in the last week or so.  As ever there have been comments from some journalists, including Matt Chapman, wondering why trainers are so cautious in running horses on what is reported as good ground.  Some trainers have pointed out it is a welfare issue and running horses on ground that can create tendon damage is certainly unadvisable.

There have been many good horses in the past who have run on good or good to firm ground without injury for many seasons.  However rather like people, horses have different preferences and certainly with a young horse it is always best to proceed with caution as even the slightest of tendon injuries can damage their careers.

Popular flat jockey Jimmy Quinn retired at Doncaster on Saturday.  Having known Jimmy for forty years, it is easy to see why he is so popular – he is an excellent jockey and a likeable character.  It was certainly interesting that it made the main BBC Sports news programme as the channel has not appeared to be too keen on reporting on other racing news over the last few years.  We look forward to Jimmy continuing within the sport and keeping us smiling for many years to come.

Due to the lurgy which seems to be doing the rounds, I was unable to attend the funeral of Christopher Sweeting yesterday.  I’ve known Christopher and his wonderful family for decades – he was truly one of life’s greats.

Wonderfully loyal, interesting and opinionated, he cared for people and animals in equal measure and was respected by all.  A powerful advocate for National Hunt breeding in Britain, from Sunny Boy to Kayf Tara, his influence will be in evidence for generations to come.

A fine trainer of pointers, he not only guided the horses but also their riders and all three of his children rode winners on the enigmatic but talented pointing legend Border Sun.

Like many, it was a privilege to know him and spend time with him.  May he rest in peace.