Damp and dark this afternoon, the mizzle making the shortest day seem even shorter. Short days at this time of year are one of the few downsides of living in Scotland and whilst I hate wishing time away it is always nice to know when things are going to start to turn – albeit slowly. Musselburgh tomorrow with two runners on ground that is likely to end up pretty soft for the track with overnight rain forecast.
The G Wizard
That won’t bother our two and we start with The G Wizard in the 12.38. He was 2nd on his last start at Kelso and would have a chance on paper but this is a competitive little maiden hurdle with a good flat horse and several promising young hurdlers. He should go well if he takes to the track – 6 run and Bruce rides.
Beat The Retreat
We then run recent Ayr winner Beat the Retreat in the 14.38; he won round here in February over 2m 4f and seems in very good form though he steps up to 3m tomorrow and there is a doubt as to whether he stays that trip. Feasibly handicapped still so will hopefully go well – 13 run and Bruce rides. Our third declared runner, Oor Wish, unfortunately had a minor setback yesterday and will hopefully be out in early January.
A bracing walk on the beach in St Andrews yesterday after a lovely family celebration
At Carlisle last week our horses only ran OK, all three travelled and jumped nicely through their races but found little for pressure in the closing stages finishing 4th, 5th and 5th. Generally outran their odds but I feel they are better than that. After tomorrow we will be quiet until after Christmas; one runner pencilled in for Boxing Day then hopefully one at Catterick next Sunday followed by Kelso, Haydock, Musselburgh, Ayr and Newcastle the following week.
A special birthday for a special lady!