String walking home.
Overcast but not too cool and the forecast is relatively dry for 2,000 Guineas afternoon. Those heading to Newmarket might get away without bringing umbrellas, although it’s not a given!
A routine cantering morning for all four lots but plenty of visitors to keep us on our toes. Lord and Lady Derby joined us for breakfast before inspecting Girl With A Pearl at exercise. Mrs Rogers, owner of Airlie Stud, made the journey across the Irish Sea to view Seaworthy, who she co-owns with her brother, Sir Thomas Pilkington. Andrew Bengough was here to see Arethusa and Gabrielle. Johnny Weatherby dropped in very briefly and Mr Milmo and Mr Gompertz were here shortly before lunchtime to view an array of their charges. Barely time to draw breath!
We have four runners this afternoon, with Fieldsman our sole representative at Newmarket in the concluding 1m handicap. He progressed nicely last year, winning twice, and the fast ground will suit. The trip ought not to be a problem with a winter on his back. Ryan Moore rides.
At Goodwood, Island Remede tackles an open renewal of the Daisy Warwick. She is nicely drawn and has pleased us since the Further Flight. A little more ease underfoot would have been preferable, but she should acquit herself well under David Probert.
Red Avenger drops back to 7f in the succeeding handicap. He ran well in the Spring Cup and the return to this course will suit given his win at the Glorious meeting last summer. He is now only 1lb higher than that success, although the trip might be a little on the sharp side. It’s a valuable prize so we had to take our chance and we are pleased to have secured Adam Kirby.
Lastly, Harlestone Hopes ventures beyond one mile for the first time in the concluding 1m2f handicap. He is bred to do better tackling this sort of test, the ground is fine and the draw has been kind. We are hopeful of a big run.
One declaration for Monday this morning with Oasis Fantasy set to line-up in the 1m4f 0-85 at Windsor under George Baker.
We also made a bucketful of entries for a busy day of racing next Friday, spearheaded by Prince Gagarin in the Dee Stakes at Chester. The rain we have been promised for what feels like forever keeps failing to materialise, so we have everything crossed that the heavens open at some point in the next few days.
Have a wonderful weekend all – enjoy the Guineas those who are venturing to this part of the world!
Back Monday. Ed.