27/02/22

Although the storms had been and gone, our running plans were still affected by the resulting damage as both of our trips to Chelmsford last week were abandoned. A couple of the floodlights at the track blew down in the gales and they couldn't get them fixed in time. It was frustrating as we were due to have four runners there but hopefully they can get things fixed this week in time for their next meeting.
Some of the cancelled races were switched elsewhere, including one for Arpina who will head to Wolverhampton for that race on Monday. Her best form has come at this venue so I expect another good effort although she is up against two horses who have already beaten her recently.
Accompanying her to Dunstall Park will be Smokey Malone in the amateur race. He was a cosy winner last time and this type of race should suit him as he likes a fast pace to chase and getting into trouble keeps him interested. Hopefully he will go close again granted luck in running.

On Wednesday we will head to Kempton with new girl Initiate. We bought her earlier this month from the sales and she has settled down well now after being a bit buzzy when we first got her. She only ran last month so didn't take long to get fit and this will be a learning curve for us as we figure out her best trip and how she likes to be ridden. It's also her third career start so she will qualify for a handicap mark afterwards.

Rounding off the week will be Oud Metha Bridge at Southwell on Saturday. He got an early win on the board on New Year's Day at the track before not showing the same form the following time. He's been freshened up since then and has every reason to run well providing he is in the right mood.