Ed and the string.
Cold and overcast with rain on the way – the Indian Summer seems to be over.
I hope you all enjoyed an excellent weekend. The rugby was a definite low-point with England turning in a particularly uninspiring performance, although Zarwaan registering a first Listed win at Redcar was the obvious high. He is such a tough and consistent little horse and he fully deserved to get off the mark – we are delighted for Sheikh Hamdan and all of the team at Shadwell.
Arc day lived up to the tremendous billing despite Treve proving unable to land the hat-trick. Frankie was simply sublime aboard Golden Horn and bar the one blip at York, he has given the horse a masterclass of riding displays this season. Despite concerns about the quality of the three-year-old crop in the spring, we have certainly found our standout. Congratulations to all those involved.
Inspections continue for Book One this morning with the opening lots going under the hammer tomorrow. We could have some early fireworks courtesy of Lot 43, Galileo x Alluring Park, a full brother to Oaks winner Was and 5,000,000gns purchase Al Namaah, who set this sale alight two years ago.
Also, Newsells Park Stud look to have a superb draft including Lot 24, a three-parts sister to Legatissimo by Australian super shuttler Redoute’s Choice. I can’t wait to see her go under the hammer.
One declaration for Thursday with Opposition heading to Nottingham for the mile maiden which is restricted to the progeny of stallions who won over at least 1m2f. Adam Kirby will ride.
A handful of entries for the weekend including Sharaakah in the valuable fillies’ nursery that opens the card on Future Champions Day and Scrutinise in the three-year-old only mile and a half handicap at Goodwood on Sunday.
Manndawi was also given an entry in the Herbert Power Stakes on October 10 and he could begin his Australian campaign in the Caulfield Group 2.
Back tomorrow, although updates will be brief this week given the time of year.
Ed.