Friday 14 November 2008
Morning Partners,
Just off the telephone to our esteemed trainer!
She had just come back from the dentist - obviously having had injections to numb any pain because I could hardly understand a word she was saying. However, I was quick to inform her that I was seeking a detailed update regarding our resident flying machine MYSTIC TOUCH and if he was anything less than Group class she wouldn't be needing a dentist again!
From a garbled telephone conversation and some mumbled threats back, about my voice getting higher, I was able to comprehend that MYSTIC TOUCH was absolutely fine, has been working well this week and is definitely going the right way ( I did think to myself, which way has he been going then for the past 12 months but I didn't share my thoughts as I was beginning to feel sorry for her as she had just taken a slurp of hot coffee that obviously had found it's way down the front of her shirt which somehow became my fault! - don't ask!;).
Again I asked about likely outing dates and distance - regarding distance, she thought 7f to start with, acknowledging that he would most likely benefit from a mile but she wouldn't want to over burden him first time out. She wants him to enjoy the experience - don't we all!
Regarding a likely date - I am trying, I promise you - She reminded me that I had only asked the same question on Monday and the answer remained the same but with the added fact that she knows we would all like as much notice as possible and she will ensure that we have at least 2 weeks notice, so rest easy.
Other matters;
Regarding the proposed Christmas get together, as a result of my late notice, it now transpires that the vast majority of our small (but perfectly well formed) group are unable to attend because they have rather hastily made alternative arrangements (excuses), ranging from weddings to visiting relatives. Truth be told, I expect they have heard the truth about my Mrs' legendary punch (low alcohol!!!) and don't dare attend. One even asked for a 'doggy bag' - guess who - 8/15 Watson, 6/4 Brenchley - King.
Anyway, because of that I suggest we all meet up instead on the racecourse when that other legend of ours, the legendary MYSTIC TOUCH, puts in one or two eagerly awaited performances before Christmas.
Because the Christmas get together has been cancelled I will definitely be giving early notice regarding next year's SUMMER BBQ. So although you may have escaped the 'punch' you will have no excuses but to attend for the burnt burgers and booze.
Regarding next year, next season. I will prepare a set of accounts at the end of December 2008 to show how we've faired over the year. These should be ready by mid January following reimbursement of the VAT element from the taxman. In total, we have finished the year with and elite team of 18 individuals paying bits and pieces from shareholdings of 25% to 100% providing 15.5 shares that have - with the added efforts of TIME LOUP and ZEBRANO (and Emma doing us a unique deal) enabled us to keep our heads above water, great news.
As I think you all know, the intention a year ago was to have 3 horses in training, supported and funded by 36 fully paid up shares. Although we've fallen way short of the ideal number of investors we've still had a bloody good year and some exciting times - hopefully with the icing on the cake still to come from MYSTIC TOUCH. I am aware that agreement was for a 12 month period (ending 31 December 2008) but I am proposing and asking that we leave our bank balance as it is, carry on for another 12 months, leave our existing standing orders in place (for the same amount per share) in order to provide a healthy bank balance to start off the new season early next year.
Obviously, we'd only have the 2 horses in training (ZEBRANO and MYSTIC TOUCH) not 3, but I think ZEBRANO has shown plenty of promise already and should be better next season as a 3 year old and MYSTIC TOUCH we are told, will not disappoint! With that in mind, next season should be plenty of fun with plenty of outings and winning opportunities (straight from the start with ZEBRANO still being a maiden!).
I think we'd all have settled for the position and season we've experienced so far and if we could have taken this at the start of the season I think we'd have been happy. From 3 youngsters that we had from foals, we've had two runners - that's an achievemnet in itself! - with the third about to run. TIME LOUP' s form for us was 501 and ZEBRANO's 032322.
I appreciate and fully respect if anybody wants out at the end of December. If that is the case, please let me know and when I've drawn up final accounts I will draw a cheque for your respective share of our positive bank balance. Please don't be too hasty, 1 to withdraw your share but more importantly 2, booking your world cruise!
I'm very much hoping everybody stays on board because I think we have some more good times ahead and we have a great bunch of people - At this time I am also asking whether anybody wants to increase their stake and take on another whole share ( or even another 50%)? I don't propose to advertise as we have a nice close knit team but would ask that if you have any friends or colleagues that may have expressed an interest then this would be the time for them to start thinking about joining in - if you think they are serious then why not invite them along to see MYSTIC TOUCH run and they will also have the opportunity of meeting the rest of the team - hold on, maybe that's not such a good idea, that could put people off (only joking) - let me see whose going first!.
Failing the recruitment of any fresh faces (we all had them before we started getting involved in this game! even me), if all existing members agree with the above proposal we should be in a fairly healthy position to press on as we are and get some more winners on the board.
In addition, for those business bods amongst you, please don't disregard the opportunity for a corporate sponsorship deal (excellent tax breaks for you) to have your company/business name on the front of the jockeys silks and grooms shirt, paddock blanket and in the race card. Bear in mind the way ZEBRANO has been running - from the front - your company name will always be seen on the television and we still have the best to come!......A lump sum would secure the deal with the added opportunity of your company/business hosting some corporate hospitality days for their clients when either of the horses run. If you consider this idea or just have some questions regarding such, please give me a shout. I can assure you it wouldn't take much to top our existing deal.
Anyway, enough from me. Please give some thought to the way ahead, I can soon prepare new share certificates. Let's catch up on the racecourse and raise a glass (or a few) to our future success.!
regards
Paul
Sunday 19 October 2008
Evening All
First things first, I've copied in everybody's e mail addresses as I'm away from Wednesday for a fortnight (back on 7/11) on holiday. In addition, I've attached a template, should MT run, for John Oakey to sort out badges etc. John will also contact Emma each week and report back to you all by e mail with the latest news.
Good luck and get another winner on the board!
Right, news this morning was Zebrano has really chilled and seems happy to doss about the paddock and continues to eat as the string walk out to work each day. Now for the important chap, MYSTIC TOUCH. He is now back in full work and going well - as well as he was before his blood cock up so the signs are still very positive. Again she wouldn't be pushed on debut date so over to you Mr Oakey to use your charm.
Right must sign off as Mrs wants me to get stuff out for packing. Blimey woman we don't go for another 3 days!
See you all soon and all the very best of luck.
regards Paul
ps I'll be working on the Christmas get together whilst I'm away -
Monday 13 October 2008
Morning All
I didn't e mail until today because I spoke to Emma last Monday and e mailed round and in all honesty, when I rang her late last week, there wasn't too much news but here we go.......
Obviously, for those of you that haven't been to the moon this weekend, you must be well aware that the stable is on fire and the nags running extremely well ( Crack Away Jack and Seymar Lad, plus Oceana Gold last week). Good news then, at least they must be in the right place!
News late last week was that Zebrano was being roughed off before his return home. On the walker once a day - to loosen up - before going out into the paddocks whereupon I understand he immediately puts his head down to nosh and it stays like that - only coming up for occasional air - until they get him back in alter in the day.
All good news still with MYSTIC TOUCH - her words were " Slowly slowly catchy monkey", Then I got the English translation which meant that he is progressing and they are slowly, slowly increasing his work again and monitoring his blood enzymes levels accordingly. Good news for us is that he will definitely run as a two year old but in all honesty she would not be pushed or commit to timetable on likely date of first outing - other than to say and reiterate, "I'm not rushing him, he's worth waiting for and doing it the right way". Who am I to comment!
Ill speak to EL again this weekend and will then hand the reins over to John Statto Oakey to keep you well briefed re impending runner/news etc as I'm off on holiday for a fortnight. It'll be sods law that I miss MYSTIC TOUCH win first time out but I can live with that, heres wishing.
FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2008
Once again, the big fella done us proud with another front running display at Goodwood yesterday. Ok, only second, but an excellent day all round and a
good turn out to support him. Many big bets were laid as he was sent off at 2/1 favourite, thankfully not our members money!
Interesting this morning regarding the comments in the Racing Post - highlighted his particular high knee action (indicating he may want softer ground) and the fact that he may benefit from a step up in distance to a mile. That really endorsed Emma's after race thoughts but Alan Munro felt that he may benefit from a drop back in distance - a stiff 6 furlongs in soft ground (Sandown uphill on a wet day comes to mind! - Statto Oakey start looking for suitable dates) Alan felt that he still ran very green in front, he had his ears pricked again until the business end when they were flat back as he was going about his work. Positive remarks from Mr Munro who feels that there is still more in the tank and more to come from him, very encouraging. He reiterated that he is genuine although he felt he may have dossed abit in front and was looking around (it is lovely scenery up there Mr Munro, what d'you expect?) but started running again when the big shot came past him - however, we'd have never have caught the winner even if they'd gone round again!
Some of our members asked Emma whether we may have gone to the well too much with him as a two year old - that was his sixth run yesterday - she said that when if and he's had enough, the horse will let us know - just the way he is at home and how long it takes him to come out of his race.
Anyway, spoke to the boss this morning and she was pleased to inform me that he's come out of the race well, trotted up sound this morning and grubbed up as normal. She was quick to pick up on the remarks from the Racing Post, endorsing her views, and said that basically at the moment he is a little weak and just cannot see out the finish. I said we'd had a great day are were treated well by Goodwood. Because the owner of the winner never turned up we were all invited for complimentary drinks/ nibbles and repeated viewings of the race afterwards - that was a great touch but I think we may have outstayed our welcome as we seemed to meet the owners of the winners of the third and fourth races as well! We will have to win to get invited next time!
Emma went onto say that despite our pleasure with another sound placing she was p......d off we hadn't won and is determined to get him a win on his card as a two year old. She intends to give him a few weeks off (four quoted yesterday) before his next run and then find him a race to win! Talking of winners, she said that Mystic Touch had done a lovely piece of work this week with stable mate Ambriosano and will run very shortly. Pushed on the question of distance, she said she intends to start him off at 7 furlongs but appreciates that he may well want further after that. See how he gets on first time out - all the preliminaries, racecourse visit, attitude, performance, how he recovers and all that stuff.
Friday 19 September 2008
Just spoke to Emma who is flying off to Poland today until Sunday - she was in the boarding queue as we spoke! I thought to myself , blimey, I hope the nags aren't that bad that she' s had to leave the country! Then again, I thought it may be because her dog is running on Saturday evening at Poole? Whatever, the news however is good regarding our ponies;
"Both are in top form. ZEBRANO has come out of his race extremely well and is ready to run agian, hence my entry at Goodwood."
She asked if I'd had chance to look at the entries yet and I said "Well I had a quick look as I started to eat my fry up in Sainsbury's this morning and thankfully I was sitting down as there are a few rated 78, one at 81 and all the big named trainers have made entries".
She replied "Don't let that put you off, the horse is very well", I said " Nothing puts me off because I blame the trainer if it all goes pear shape!"
She said she will have a good look on Monday morning and maybe make some phone calls before deciding whether to run or not.
"MYSTIC TOUCH is looking good. When he came back to me he was a bit fired up, much much too sharp to start with. He's since turned off and if anything has become too relaxed at home, that's why I'm going to take him to Andrew's (Balding's) next week and get him fired up again and then look for a run for him. Basically, he's ready and I think he will go well".
Needless to say I didn't ask whether it would simply be Listed or Group class!
Sunday 14 September 2008
I rang Emma this morning at 10.30 and she said "Ok if I ring you back in 5 minutes?" - well, just as well I didn't wait in, she called back at 3.30! Anyway, spoke to Miss Lavelle, who is pleased with her tan and happy to be back from Spain, albeit disappointed that ZEBRANO didn't get his nose in front in her absence - weren't we all!
She has spoken to Mickey Fenton and to Alan Munro regarding our maiden ZEBRANO and both are firmly of the opinion, as she is, that he should stick to 7 furlongs at the moment as they feel it's only a matter of time before he truly lands one.Following his tough race at Folkestone last week she said "He hasn't lost much condition and worked well today". All being well she'll look for another race for him in two weeks time.
MYSTIC TOUCH. She said " As you know, when he came back he was abit of a boy but he seems to have settled in well and if he starts to get out of hand we simply increase his work. That takes the sting out of him. He really thinks he knows it all and just to keep him on his toes and sharpen him up I will take him to Andrew Balding's to work him amongst two or three two year olds just to see how he reacts. He will be ready for his first outing in about 2/3 weeks time - depends how he does at Andrew's and how he comes on following that piece of work."
Finally, both the MARES are well, extremely well, especially TIMBERLAKE as she was trying to boot me when I was poo picking yesterday so I ended up using the wheelbarrow as a barrier between us (and no I wasn't trying to catch it fresh as it came out!) and on a couple of occasions threw hard turds at her to get her to bugger off and leave me alone - actually I was most likely throwing more poo than I was picking up - maybe that's why ive been out there so damn long!
Tuesday 9 September 2008
Right, let’s start off with Emma’s Open Morning last Sunday– a great event and our ponies done us proud - although MYSTIC TOUCH did rear as he was being led back to his box and some of you may have heard Emma issue a health warning before he came out on parade, classic.
Now the racing update – ZEBRANO travelled to Folkestone yesterday, a 7 furlong maiden event. At the start of the day it was hit and miss whether he’d get there at all because the lorry was stuck in traffic on the M3 at 11 o’clock. I received a call from the box driver at 11 when I was already at Clacket Lane services on the M25 downing a latte and caramel slice ( I won’t be copying my Mrs into this e mail this week!0 Fortunately he arrived with enough time to spare.
As you know, the going changed from heavy to soft, heavy in places but that didn’t trouble him at all. Another cracking race he ran, giving his all. Beaten ½ a length after leading most of the way – 4 lengths clear of the whole field at the 6f marker and interesting enough the Racing Post comments that the eventual winner (Brazilian Art) and the rest of the field were all off the bridle and working away at the 4f pole. ZEBRANO was still cruising at the 6f pole but as we know, he seems very one paced and doesn’t really find much when he comes off the bit, basically because he gives his all. I do think we’ve found the best way to ride him at the moment – from the front.
Initially I thought maybe we should let him run the same way over 6f – soft going, back at Folkestone but then again, if you recall, he wasn’t able to dispose of Rapid Release over 7f last time he ran at Folkestone so maybe the field yesterday, in hindsight, wasn’t too hot – especially as the third horse home (who we beat by 1¾ lengths ) was 10l clear of the 4th horse?
Emma called after the race, from poolside in Spain (keen to tell me what she was wearing, I said I haven’t time for that , just let me fill you in with the race details – only jokin!). She was keen to know if he had settled in front and how he’d handled the soft going. I was pleased to report excellent on both counts and she was chuffed with the result following his poor run last time.
Neil rang from the yard this morning to say that they were all screaming him home and thought he was going to hang on. He was keen to inform me that there was a lot of money gambled on the winner yesterday and apparently it had been working very well at Newmarket, plus the fact it cost £85k as a yearling – All good stuff but we still need to get that elusive win. However, ZEBRANO has trotted up sound and well and eaten up as usual – good news.
I mentioned to Neil about the 6f idea and he said he thought 61/2f would be spot on as he keeps getting mugged on the line, possibly arguing that we should put him again round a bend to let him scoot clear and those faster finishers would find it harder to pick him up off a short home straight – but it’s up to the boss to decide – again. All bodes well for his next run.
Finally, both mares have now started their course of EHV (Equine Herpes Virus) injections, the next one is due in two months time in preparation for foaling……..I was going to give dates here but I really don’t know! The only help is that Whisper’s foal should be due first and hopefully we will see the signs in advance and be ready, listening each night with our ‘baby listener/alarm’ (the type that plugs into the electrical sockets) –many sleepless nights coming my way.
It certainly caused a stir (the talk of the tea room!) when I sent an e mail round at work this week to see if anybody had a second hand baby listener/alarm available!
Thinking again about the likely dates; Yawmi actually went into their field on 14 February (how apt!) but was still bonking Timberlake the day before he went off to Emma’s so we are hopefully looking for early new year foals and in an ideal world, both of the same sex. Needless to say, watch this space for further updates in due course.
In summary, another great day racing – pleasing result – one better with him next time – who knows, maybe MYSTIC TOUCH will be the next one to oblige for Caloona Racing!
Today!
EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING...... Because she is the size of a house we've had WHISPER ( AMBIENCE LADY) blood tested again to make sure she is not in foal. Would you belive it, SHE IS IN FOAL TO YAWMI! Needless to say, TIMBERLAKE is booked in for a second bloodtest next week!
Wednesday 20 August 2008
Rang Emma today for weekly update. Both horses working very well and she will be tipping them up as ones to watch as most likely winners at her open morning – oh dear, cringe cringe! MYSTIC TOUCH is a little bit buzzy but nothing to get concerned or too excited about. Nothing they cannot handle and she will simply increase his workload.
Monday 18 August 2008
Great to see a nice turn out last Saturday at an impromptu open morning at Emma’s to see our two youngsters shoot up the gallops. I think we are all in agreement that MYSTIC TOUCH certainly looks the part and it was very exciting to see him on his toes jig jogging around the yard in anticipation of his early morning exercise. Emma relayed, to those present, that the rest seems to have done him very well and he has strengthened up at the front end ( instead of resembling the shape of a dragster) and levelled off well with a nice top line. The added bonus is that with the increase in work he also seems to have left his rather wayward antics behind him and is well behaved!
He worked upsides ZEBRANO who, despite losing a few pounds between his back legs, still looks a very interesting and exciting prospect. Both looked to come up and travel very well with not too much between them. ZEBRANO is obviously the fitter of the two but without having prior knowledge of that it would have been difficult to separate them. All good encouraging stuff. Side by side MYSTIC TOUCH is definitely the bigger and more robust looking of the two. Rather like John Oakey and myself, but I’m catching him up rapidly!
Emma received a variety of questions from left, right and centre regarding MYSTIC TOUCH. Ducking and diving, abit like Frank Bruno (being caught by the occasional sucker punch) she answered questions relating to preferred distance, speed, future outings, jockeys and tactics for both of them. The only thing that seemed to slow down the question and answer session was the onset of donuts, flapjacks and chocolate crunch things (sorry Dave BK and Kevin but we enjoyed a feast of delights!) and the fact that Emma tried each of them but at the same time which slowed down her response! Only kidding Miss Lavelle! The fact that she then appeared on Channel 4 racing later that afternoon from Newbury, still with sugar round her chops, leads me to believe that some of the donuts obviously went racing.
Anyway, we digress, back to the racing. From conversation snippets we gleamed that Emma feels at this stage in the preparations – although things may change – that MYSTIC TOUCH may need at least 7f if not more first time out and they both may be ready to run around the second week in September. Music to John ‘Statto’ Oakey’s ears as he shared with all those gathered that there are a variety of races available that week.
Hopefully, if not before, at Emma’s Open day we will have a good idea of where and when we are going next on our travels.
11 AUGUST 2008
I expect most of you saw YAWMI's crashing fall at Southwell this afternoon, many thanks for your texts concerning his welfare.
As I text in reply from the course, he'd got up and walked into the horsebox by time we get to where he'd fallen. Very shaky but still in one piece and nothing broken which surprised us all.
We went back to the vet stables on the course and he was there still very shaken, bruised and battered but seemed ok. However, the vet was concerned that he was still heavy breathing and gave him a pain killer. He thought after trotting up sound that he may have cracked a rib and we planned to leave him in the Southwell area at the equine hospital for observation for a couple of days then bring him home and call it a day. At that point I left with Emma as there was nothing we could do and fortunately John stayed with Heather.
Unfortunately, the vet rang and spoke to Emma after about half an hour to say that the horse wasn't really recovering and felt he may have some internal bleeding. He said he'd give him another hour and call again. Regrettably, the next call was no better but worse and he felt the horse was distressed and should be put out of his pain. This was agreed and I'm afraid he's no longer with us.
ps thanks John for taking Heather home - a true gent.
pps id already arranged this morning for anybody to go up this Saturday to see the 2 youngsters work. Still all welcome and it would be nice to see a few faces turn out.
Normal pull out time 8.30 so please be sharp
3 AUGUST 2008
Went up the gallops this morning with Big John 'Statto' Oakey, who has now become Emma's entries advisor!, to see the nags work and catch up on plans for the near future for YAWMI. Both ZEBRANO and YAWMI worked well this morning and both looked very good in their paces - that ZEBRANO is certainly a brave lad pounding up those gallops after only having 3 days on easy list following his nuts op! Emma's theory is based upon 'if theres nothing there how can it hurt him?' at which point John winced and I turned white and felt feint.
However, most exciting and bonus view of the morning was watching MYSTIC TOUCH have his first sight of the gallops since returning from our pad. The girl riding him (Claire) had been forewarned by both Barry and Emma to ride with a long leg and keep a tight hold. They were right - it was like the Hatherden bucking bronco show - fantastic, how she stayed on God only knows! I was amazed to arrive at the top of the gallops and see them still together. Ok, he was fresh at home but that was truly something to behold. Following that performance I gave her a couple of donuts in reward.
Emma and Barry said that the break has done MYSTIC TOUCH the world of good but he has returned with his testosterone levels overflowing! Apparently, he tried to jump over the stable door this week to sniff a passing mare and rammed the turn out cage to forewarn a passing gelding to push off his patch! We obviously treat them mean down here in the South and take no prisoners.... Poor little bugger, I think he was simply trying to say "Hello".
Circling next to ZEBRANO he (MT)is definitely more compact and with a pilot on board, looked fantastic. It will be good to see him on the Open Day - if they dare bring him out - I shall certainly have my Caloona fleece hidden firmly in the boot of the car!(Janey and David - please do not forget to remind me that I have fleece's for you both - ha, ha just when you thought you'd got away with it!).
Anyway, second time up for MYSTIC TOUCH saw him return to normal as I think his first effort certainly took the wind out of his sails - but he still looked good.
Entries : YAWMI will be entered to run a week Monday at Southwell! Yes, I know it's miles away but Emma (and her latest recruit, Mr Oakey) confirmed that there are very few novice hurdle races over 2m around at the moment so we have to take what comes along save him sitting in his stable all day. So going permitting - Good to Firm (confirmed again by Mr Right Hand Man Oakey!) will see him travel north for the day - race time, from memory is 4.15? ....I'll e mail again during the week when entries are known, to see who would like owners passes.
ZEBRANO will not be out for at least 4 weeks as he is on a slow course of anti biotics following his op - although he will still be in full work and early September should see him back on course.
31 JULY 2008
YAWMI doesnt run tomorrow as the ground today at Bangor is good to soft with rain and Emma says we need rock hard ground for him - a let off for the Pipe team!!!! -
a race up the middle of the M1 would be ideal!
ZEBRANO had his nuts off yesterday and will be cantering again on Saturday morning. Very little swelling according to our trainer!
MYSTIC TOUCH is being ridden every day, out on the roads. Very very fresh the first day but has settled down since and will soon be back pounding up the gallops. Now he's back she says he really looks to have filled out well.
regards and hope to see you all soon
27 July 2008
point of note: YAWMI has been entered to run at Bangor on Friday in a novice hurdle. It's over 200 miles from Andover! I hope the bugger has already started walking!
25 July 2008
I spoke to Emma the morning after (yesterday) who said that the horse never gave his true running. She feels he only performed at a rating of 60 when he is an 80 rated two year old.
She did say that he was a little jarred up but now we've conceded to give him the chop, an extra couple of weeks off won't do him any harm. Emma still thinks we need to get him to settle and my only comment was, "Over 7 furlongs I don't think he has a second gear, maybe that's something to consider when he goes over a further trip". Anyway we'll see what time tells us.
MYSTIC TOUCH has his shoes on and is already out on the walker. Still very cocky but he's settling in nicely. He knows what it's all about and let's hope our patience pays dividends.
Ive telephoned again today re entries for YAWMI but Emma was riding out and they have banned mobiles on the gallops - a good thing, so I've left a message to shout if she has anything in mind.
23 July 2008......Evening people.
Strange day, started well when I read the Racing Post and got even better when we arrived at the course and Emma informed us of her earlier telephone conversation with Sir Mark Prescott who was enquiring whether ZEBRANO was going to run. When she answered yes, he said "we'll withdraw from this one then" and so the second favourite didn't run.
Odds on favourite was a new position to be in. I can't think of any of our runners ever being such a short priced favourite before. Was it just a formality?. The horse looked the part and when the jockey parted with comments of "I see you've a big gathering for the winners photo" and "We should win this", I think the nerves began to set in. Becky said to me "Don't be too confident Dad" and I thought she's right but this must be a given!...She was right.
The agreed tactics were to, if chance, hold him up and settle in behind but keep him handy. That worked to the tee but he never had the speed to catch or go past them.
"the bit worked well" (he rode him in a gag and that gave him a lot more control and indeed he did mange to tuck him in behind)
"When I asked him to quicken he preferred to doss in behind the front two instead of getting on with the job in hand."
"I' ve finished this race and have loads of horse under me, he's not given his all today - look at him he's hardly breathing or had a race. Maybe I should have let him bowl along in front"
"Right that's it, I'm having his nuts off" At this point Alan Munro (the jockey) definitely took a step back and went white!
" In hindsight, we may have got the tactics wrong today"
"I definitely want to geld him and we will have to rethink the way we tackle our next race. The only issue with letting him go off in front is that if something decides to take him on they will each cut their own throats"
Ok, not in the same league for opinions as the two above but I'm writing this e mail so I may as well chip in (everybody else welcome by the way!)
Anyway, all finished safe and sound, another 3 rd on the card and we live to fight another day. I don't expect we will be that price again and I don't think many of our members got there fingers burnt today with stake money. The big plus is Ive cleared my debt to Dave BK with a pork baguette! We are quits now big man.
regards to you all. Emma will ring tomorrow to report on the well being of our odds on nag and unless you hear from me again then please assume all is well.
19 JULY 2008
Good news to report is that Emma came down today without 'sicknote' Fenton and said she will be sending the box down this week to collect MYSTIC TOUCH. She said he has certainly strengthened and the rest looks to have done him the world of good, time will tell.
I was going to have his shoes put back on myself but she is keen to get him back and start training again so she will arrange for that at Cottage Stables. Good news.
18 July 2008
OUR FIRST WINNER and a day of mixed emotions!
That was a surprise and the least of the three I ever thought would produce us with our first winner. TIME LOUP rightly obliged at Leicester winning the seller over 5 furlongs by one length. Looking good in the process and the jockey done a wonderful job and was well worthy of his 7lb claim (goes down to 5lb claim from Monday as he rode a double on the day).
Some of the group had obliged themselves of the 5/1 odds and had a damn good shout screaming him home – not me with the betting but I did have a good holler.
The day was slightly tarred by the fact that he was then bid for in the auction (another surprise for me) and duly went to Roy Bowering’s yard. It was a day of mixed emotions because he was the smallest of our three and he truly battled hard for us yesterday. It will be interesting to see, and I am sure many will be watching, how he does from now on.
Latest news gleamed from yesterday regarding our other ponies was;
ZEBRANO is up for the chop (well his private parts at least) following his next run and that will either be next Wednesday 23rd July (class 5 maiden) or Saturday 2nd August (class 6 maiden) both at Lingfield. Afternoon on the all weather over 7f and evening meeting, 71/2 f, on the straight grass track, respectively.
I’ll e mail all on Monday as soon as Emma lets me know if we are running on the Wednesday. If it’s a go go go then I’ll need names of those wishing to attend the Wednesday fixture by no later than the Tuesday (22nd) lunchtime.
Choice is with Emma but we are looking for the easiest option. So far there are 35 entries for Wednesday and we are second highest rated behind one of John Gosdon's called Seeway (rated 93 after coming second, for third time, at Royal Ascot!) Obviously one to avoid? And I’d like to think Emma gets on the telephone on Monday morning to the Prescott yard to establish whether the big gun will be declared.
Emma is coming down to see MYSTIC TOUCH this weekend with a view to having him back if she thinks he’s filled out, strengthened up and able to take the training. Just to reiterate to those who were not in attendance on Thursday, Emma said for all to hear “Mystic Touch looked the best of our three!”…If she’s right, is a woman ever wrong I ask? Then we are in for a good season.
YAWMI schooled very well again this week. The trainer reported “He’s very clever and now it’s only a matter of finding him a race”. As soon as I know, accordingly invites will go out to all members and guests.
Talking of invites, you should by now have all received your personal invitation to Emma’s Open in September. If not, please let me know.
10 July 2008
First things first - TIME LOUP WILL BE ENTERED TO RUN ON THURSDAY 17TH JULY at LEICESTER in a 5 furlong selling race. Emma said this morning that it will be perfect timing for him so we will have a go! Accordingly, please e mail me your ticket requirements by next Wednesday lunchtime.
YAWMI hasn't been schooled this week because the ground is too wet at home - he's working well and they may school him tomorrow - again, weather permitting.
ZEBRANO is doing very well at home and she is very satisfied with him. She doesn't want to look for entries for him this week and will try and find a 7 furlong race for him within the next 2/3 weeks. Yes, 7 f not 6f. She wants to run him over the same trip with a view to trying to tuck him in and settle early on - she feels this will be easier at 7 than 6, despite what Alan Munro said! - Please don't shoot the messanger. She went onto say that trying to settle him over 7 f will give us a chance to produce him later in the race as oppossed to over 6f, by time he settles they may well be gone and the race over!
MYSTIC TOUCH is fine at home - learning to swim lovely with all the rain we've had and eating us out of house and home - the sooner he goes back to Emma's the better and with that in mind she is aiming to come down one evening as I'm tied up this weekend - not literally I hasten to add!
right, anything else comes up then i'll shout but hope to see you next Thursday - any queries, questions etc then shout
ps Let me know if you haven't had your invite to Emmas Open Day by next Wednesday and i'll chase her up again.
7 July 2008
Sorry for lack of update on Saturday but I had no news to share. The reason for this is that I got up at 5 to do the dogs with Dad and we got absolutely soaked. I text Emma at 5.30 to say I would not be riding and duly went back to bed! Needless to say by 7.30 the sun was shining and I could have gone afterall.
Anyway, I've telephoned this morning - She asked immediately for anybody that hasn't received an invite to her Open Morning by the end of this week to let me know and one will be in the post forthwith (point of note here - this is well worth attending if you are free as it's normally a good morning). -
regarding the nags;
YAWMI has come out from his Newbury blo' in fine fettle and Barry will be schooling him again tomorrow morning in preparation for his hurdling debut!
ZEBRANO done three pieces of work this morning instead of his usual two as with his reduced workload he has been on his toes lately! All good news. Did you see that Rapid Release took on Wilbury Star and endorse the form at Brighton yesterday. Emma was keen to reiterate the comments made on the box by Sir Mark Prescott yesterday that he thought his Rapid Release is worthy of class 4 entries but thought he could pick up a class 6 en route - ps the third in the race was by Systematic, sire of MYSTIC TOUCH
MYSTIC TOUCH. Emma is keen to come and have a nose at this strapping mule we have at home and intends to come down sometime in next 10 days to see him. Geoffrey Deacon also rang yesterday as he bumped into Emma at the sales in France last week and she was telling him of ZEBRANO's exploits. He phoned to remind me (now I told him I'd repeat these words to all ) that MYSTIC TOUCH would be the best of the three!
TIME LOUP seems ok within himself - he is scheduled to do a fast piece of work tomorrow and all being well she will look for a race for him within next 10 days - All sytems go then John Oakey as I'm sure you'll know all the available fixtures off the top of ya head!.
28 June 2008 – the morning after the day before!
Good day people, I went up to Emma’s this morning to ride out - haven’t sat on a horse since my Newbury retirement although I’ve been out on a bike a few times – I think with the state of our roads and the amount of traffic I’ll stick to horseback as it seems safer!
Anyway, I digress. The purpose of my e mail is to update and report on yesterdays run by ZEBRANO. What can I say? What a brilliant run, only beaten a head. Even the Post today remarks he should win one or two and noted that the time was 2 seconds faster than standard and two seconds faster than the all age 7furlong race after us. Things are looking good and even more exciting times are ahead for us, it appears as everyone keeps telling us, as a three year old!.
Emma said this morning, as did Alan Munro yesterday, that he is very sharp over the first furlong and she simply doesn’t know, from his breeding, where he gets this pace from to run as sharp for a two year old when he is really bred as a middle distance three year old. Anyway, a nice problem to have.
Emma’s main job now is to aim to get him to settle as opposed to bowling along in front or taking on the other lead horse as he did yesterday. Alan Munro said that it would be easier to get him to settle in behind over a 6 f trip as obviously they go a faster pace – maybe he didn’t see the Lingfield race! But I fully understand the theory and that’s for Emma to solve.
He trotted up well and sound this morning and was last seen as I left, on the walker. Emma thinks again that this race may set him back a while so she wants to give him time to come into himself again – talking about 6 to 8 weeks before next outing – She also said before the race, in the paddock, that she’d like to get a bit more substance to him, try to get him to thicken out more. At first glance he does look mostly front end, big shouldered horse whereas we need some growth, filling out, at the power end – his behind. However, all is very well and plenty to look forward to.
Just a reminder, YAWMI is at Newbury again on Thursday evening in another Charity race. Last prep run before an anticipated outing over hurdles about 10 days later – all being well!
Emma is looking for a race for TIME LOUP – he worked well this morning (not with me on I hasten to add!) and as soon as we have a date I’ll shout and advise accordingly.
Emma is coming down sometime over the next few weeks to see how MYSTIC TOUCH is getting on, with a view to him returning to go back into full training. Again, I’ll shout with any feedback or proposed movement of our nags.
Regards, Paul Attwater
- - - - - - - - - - - - LATEST NEWS - - - - - - - - - - - -
14.6.8 (courtesy John Oakey)
re TL and Z, had a brief discussion in the paddock with Emma, but really didn't say very much. Both were back in full training, but taking it relatively easy .
she said that she would leave it another week before looking for possible races, to see how they progressed. Z might run in 2 weeks time , but more likely 3-4 weeks time. She said he would definitely run over 7f next time. She really didn't give a time or distance for TL , I think it would be based on likely opportunities rather than waiting for a specific time.
Re races for Z, there are fair number of possible 7f races coming up ,with about 1 to 2 per week,from around the 23rd of june onwards. , although not too
many between 14th and 21st july.
the first medain auction race is 27th june at folkestone { but this seems less likley given emmas comments}.
2nd july catterick
6th july brighton
and the following maidens
doncaster 28th
newmarket 28th
salisbury 29th
sandown 4th
newmarket 9th
york 11th
salisbury 12th
from a racing point of view the median races are clearly generally the weakest., but I recognise that everybody will be taking off holidays, and the maidens at some of the other venues might suit better although they will be tougher.
the opportunites for TL are less because he is weaker horse, as very generally there is little point in looking at maidens { although there is a 51/2f race at bath on the 25th june which suits from a race distance} . I am thinking we would look at all weak races at 5f and 6f .
the following are options
23rd june chepstow 5f seller.
26th june great Leighs median auction {cl 6} 6f
1st july brighton 6f claimer.
5th july nottingham 5f med auc {cl5} 5f
5th july leicester 6f seller.
7th july brighton 6f med auct { cl5}
9th july catterick 5f seller
my guess is the race at chepsow is an option , although a tad early . from a course point of view the races at leicester and nottingham are fairly straight and fair with the race at leicester being the weaker. Brighton is obviosuly nearer , and generally has small filed and might suit.
Re Y - re Hurdling , I guess it depends on if he is Ok over poles or not ., we haven't got a long time to educate him, so he needs to be a bit of natural .
Re systematic- have only seen one systematic offspring run , the perrys corisamtic filly. That ran at yarmouth in a seller yesterday over 7f. Much better run,
comments such as much better over longer trip{ it led for 5f before being beaten a shortish distance into 4th} would indicate the MT is likley to be 7f or 1 mile horse
rather than anythingelse.
13.6.8 ( charity race feedback!)
Afternoon all,
Well if you haven't heard by now the Fatboy and his trusty steed finished in 7th place (of 11) both totally knackered!
Going down the back straight at Newbury it was like trying to stop a runaway truck going downhill. As instructed by the trainer, I kept my trusty steed - no sorry, attempted to keep my trusty steed - at the back of the pack in order to save something for the finish (what that something was I never found out!).
"Keep breathing" I was told as I set off - "why would I stop breathing?" I asked myself - I didn't give that question much thought as we shot off from the start - both me and the horse with our mouths wide open taking in air. However, being at the back of the pack in rain sodden ground became a nightmare abecause as the damn thing was pulling my arms out, I started breathing harder and heavier and the more I opened my mouth the more mud and sh.. came up from the hooves of the pack in front of me! I think by time we turned round the first bend - after some 5 furlongs - I'd actually eaten most of the back straight of Newbury racecourse.
Travelling well round the bend, because at this stage he'd stopped pulling, I eased him up the rail - forgetting we were in race 9 and loads and loads of horses had already taken a similar course earlier in the day that I was now taking - leaving the ground like a muddy bog - so instead of eating the whole of the home straight as well, the horse stared to drift wide but made steady headway. I new I wasn't in last place because I recall we had actually passed something as we turned for home. I gave him a couple of slaps down the neck and he gathered speed - was this the something my trainer had referred to? - To inject even more speed I thought I'd give him a swift backhander and drive him for home - unfortunately my first and only swipe at half a ton of horse that was under me, missed! and hit the girl next to me who wasn't too amused! Something beginning with f....... and then b........ she called me and it wasn't Fatboy I hasten to add!
After that we came home in our own time to finish a more than satisfactory 7th
Anyway, I'm now busy eating cakes/ices and various nicies following on from my eagerly awaited fish and chip supper last night, all good stuff.
Thanks for all your support, donations and remarks ! prior to and following the race - all for a good cause, spinal injuries association................
Regards Paul Attwater
5 June 2008 - ZEBRANO SHINES IN SECOND OUTING
“Lovely big horse, great stride with plenty of early pace, needs 7 furlongs, may even nick a 6 furlong race, have a little patience (at which point we nearly burst into the Take That song!) and can I ride him next time out please?" Were the words from Shane Kelly as he shared his thoughts with the Caloona Racing gang keenly assembled in the third place spot of the Lingfield winner’s enclosure. It’s great to be back!
He added that the horse was happy in front, bowling along at a good pace. Although the plan was to ping him out and settle possibly in behind, Shane said that he felt he had such a good stride that he’d let him sail on – which he truly did – just tying up 100 yards from the winning line. A great result that will no doubt keep us on the crest of a wave, ever hopeful.
As most of you will be aware, TIME LOUP was also in the race and was first to show from the stalls. Chris Cattlin, his jockey, said that he didn’t really handle the first bend too well as he was trying to take it too fast – abit like the wall of death (did he think he was on a motor bike? I asked myself!) However, he felt he definitely would be more suited to 5 furlongs and preferably, for his next run, on a straight course. “Let him shoot out and stay in front as long as he can.” Once he’d been bustled up abit he let him come home in his own time. The only good thing with that is he may be out soon again.
Simon commented after the race that ZEBRANO had been in a proper race this time and as a result it may take abit out of him. Remember, even this time, it was hit and miss whether he would run but thankfully a speculative entry was made and he picked up during the week to give the go ahead to run.
6 June 2008 – the morning after
Emma and Barry arrived back from Auz in the early hours of yesterday morning but were up and about to watch the race on At the Races. Emma commented that Claude Duval told everybody on the tv to put the name of ZEBRANO firmly in your notebooks following an impressive run.
Emma told me this morning that they are both fine and seem to have come out of the race well. She commented that ZEBRANO ran very impressively bearing in mind she felt he’s not really bred to be a two year old and also, if anything, 6 furlongs was always going to be too short for him. In addition, the bonus from yesterday is obviously that he acts on the all weather.
The dream is still alive – don’t forget, we’ve still got the quickest one at home!
Ps – This morning I’ve e mailed all with the arrangements for next Thursday at Newbury – Please come back to me if you haven’t received them
Regards, Paul Attwater
28 May 2008
Morning All
Just arrived back from a wet morning riding out at the stables.
Both have been entered in the same race at LINGFIELD on Thursday 5th June over 6 furlongs (Class 6)..on the all weather round a bend!..
Simon tells me that TIME LOUP has come out of his race very well and had a good education. ZEBRANO he thinks has gone back abit and his race may have taken more out of him than initially thought although he continues to eat well and they are banging the grub into him.
The basis for the double entry is that TIME LOUP will definitely run but ZEBRANO will only be declared at the 48 hour stage providing Simon feels he is well enough and back to his normal self and able to do himself justice.Failing this, he will give him another week to build up again.
I know it's abit strange to have two in one race but some financial advantage if they both run is one lot of travel costs and twice as many owners passes!
Im up again next Tuesday so will have a definite answer regarding declarations by then.
Any queries then shout but other than that please can you let me know by next Tuesday, say 5 pm of names who would like free passes and I will then arrange this with the course accordingly.....
regards
ps YAWMI continues to work well, now doing 4 pieces of work!
26 May 2008
Afternoon All,
According to the commentator a hot little race in store for Time Loup's debut run this afternoon at Leicester.
Well what a great little horse we have. Running on into 5th place and not disgraced, totally surprised me!
Dave Pugsley rang me from the course to report that Steve Drowne gave him a very nice introduction and said he will win a small race for us and maybe next time out even consider running him over 6 furlongs. Totally agree that he had a nice into'. Stalled well, came out very well and only received a couple of slaps down the neck for his troubles. It will be interesting tomorrow to see what is says In the racing post.
All in all a very good day.
I'll be up the stables on Wednesday morning and will report to all accordingly.
Regards
Paul (who has put on a few pounds this weekend!!!! oh dear)
22 May 2008
Evening dudes
Fantastic day today - great venue, company and promising result.
Zebrano looked a picture and credit goes to Neil who led him up - and managed to hold on to him!
Slowly away from what we perceived to be a favourable draw on the rails but as we now know the field opted to run down the centre of the track leaving Zebrano on the outside on his tod.
At about 3 furlongs out he loomed with menace and this became quite exciting but as Big John and Emma predicted , with his breeding the 6 furlongs is abit on the sharp side - and when the question was asked the leaders left him abit for toe - he appeared one paced over this trip.
Mickey Fenton gave him a couple of backhanders - really to let him know what the game is all about. He stayed on a straight course - encouraging - and as he had no chance of winning from the 2 furlong pole he pushed him out with hands and heels to run on strong.
The R/Post commented slowly away, tracked leaders, ran on final furlong. A nice start. He was only beaten 7 lengths and thankfully the course at Goodwood is fenced off at the end because the jockey had trouble stopping him -again encouraging, full of running - and thought he was on his way to Midhurst!
I must admit initially I was a little disappointed in the run as I was hoping realistically for a first 6 position - following what I had seen at Andrew baldings - but on watching the replay on racing uk, plus the headon and reading the race remarks, all in all that wasn't a bad run and we live to fight another day.
Micky Fenton and Simon(head lad) both thought he should run again over 6 furlongs before being stepped up to 7 furlongs soon.
Some dates were mentioned by Emma before she went away for both of them, Zebrano and Time Loup - 4 and 5 June and 6 furlongs and 5 furlongs respectively at Lingfield, but I can't remember whether they were provisional dates if for any reason we failed to get in today and Monday . However, Simon will ask her when she rings over the weekend.
Soz if I never said goodbye to all at the end but we had to leave after the 3rd race to get Becky home who is working nights. Those who are travelling on Monday to see Time Loup - good luck - we'll catch up by e mail next week.
Regards, Paul Attwater
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