Gossamer is very content in his new home with Bob Nicholls in Leicestershire. He has a friend in the field with him and they seem to be getting on very well indeed. Bob is going to give Gossamer as much time as possible to recover and then work with his (and our) vet to plan a regime forward to enable him to be ridden again in to the winter. He's a gorgeous horse with a cracking personality so i'm sure they will all get on very well.
Vuvu is 'terrorising' the other horses in the field, he obviously thinks its far too boring to have a relaxing break and spends his days chasing and playing with the older horses. Think if he was a human he would probably holiday in Magaluf, wheras Samson would be more of a Maldives horse......
I am still trying to secure a yard for this season and will let you all know when anything is confirmed.
B
Unfortunately On Gossamer Wings will be unable to run on Saturday due to a knock to his fetlock joint. I hope that this is just bruising and nothing more serious. If its what we think, we will be able to start working him again in a couple of days. Anyone who has planned to come up and would still like badges to support our other runners would be very welcome. Just give me a call. B
Samson is still on track to run and with four below him in the ballot , he SHOULD get in. Ideally we'd like a bit of rain as the going currently is good to soft, but this shouldn't worry him. Tomorrow we have two in Wetherby, it will be great to get racing again, i've been confined to West Witton for far too long this week!
For those who don't yet know I am currently in the process of exams, modules and securing a yard to train from. There have been a few stories circulating and I would like to let everyone know that i'm reviewing all options very carefully and have not yet committed to any yard. I hope to base myself in Middleham , so will have full use of the "moor" facilities. Its a massive step for anyone to take, ideally this would have happened a couple of more years down the line, however the opportunity to start training with such a talented selection of horses, along with great support from Ferdy and others has led me to decide upon starting in 2013.
Licence and yard permitting, I aim to have between 8 and 10 horses for the NH season 2013/2014 initially with Tony Kelly as a "working conditional" and Catherine Walton as an Amateur. Being based in Middleham will allow me to bring in proffessional NH jockeys to work alongside Tony & Catherine on schooling and work mornings, which I know will be invaluble. I will of course keep everyone posted as plans are finalised and once this has happened I will then be able to chat to everyone individually about the future of the horses / syndicates. I would be really grateful if anyone does have any thoughts, for you to e-mail me in advance to rebeccaelizabeth. Menzies@hotmail. Co. Uk
Becky
We have made entries for On Gossamer Wings and Samson Collonges at Cartmel on Saturday (evening) . Ground dependent they should both run.
The rain is persistant this morning in Wynbury and the horses that have been turned out in the paddocks for their break have now been brought back in! Not good !
Samson Collonges had an abcess in his foot which is basically an infection in his hoof that takes its time to come out. Catherine Walton is in this morning and she's going to let me know how he's feeling. On Gossamer Wings was stiff after his fall but luckily we've got away with no damage. He's in good order and will run again in about two weeks all being well.
Vuvuzela has now been moved to a bigger paddock where he has more room to stretch his legs. He has progressed really well and will probably be moved to Ces's paddocks in Leyburn next week with Chavoy as there is much more grass and shelter down there.
Another bit of news is that I will be going to Newmarket on the 3rd of June to begin the module 1 for a full trainers licence. A little daunting, but I feel the time is right and providing I can secure premises during the summer I will aim to start fully in September 2013. I will be calling everyone during next week to discuss plans for the horses and to find out your thoughts on the matter, or if anyone wishes to drop me an email to rebeccaelizabeth. Menzies@hotmail. Co. Uk i'd be thrilled to hear from you.
Gossamer has an entry at Sedgefield on Thursday 2nd May but is more likely to wait until Saturday, when he is entered in the 2m5f Handicap Chase at Uttoxeter. We will keep an eye on the race on Thursday and will consider running if the race cuts up. However, I would expect most declared to stay in, so it looks like a trip to Staffordshire is on the cards at the weekend.
Samson ran to his best yesterday but the race was run a little too quickly for him. He stuck to his task well, as usual, and jumped well too, finishing 5th. He has eaten up but is a little bit stiff this morning, which is simply the effect of running on firmer ground. He will be absolutely fine after a few quiet days.
Catherine Walton rides, ground described as good and they are watering to maintain. Lets hope he comes out on top of the Ferdy Murphy 4! B
Hexham have reported Good ground this morning. There is some rain expected during the course of tomorrow, with the possibility of watering still being considered to prevent to going become too quick. Link to latest report is here http://www. Britishhorseracing. Com/goracing/racing/going/default. Asp
Sammy will be declared and will run if he gets in.
Sammy has been entered at Hexham on Monday 22nd April. He is entered in the 0-95 3m1f Handicap Chase. It is our intention to run, the only concern would be the ground drying out too much. We will monitor the reports from the course and keep you posted.
Good news all round this morning as it has been announced Ryan Mania is expected to be released from hospital later today following his fall yesterday.
Here at Wynbury both Gossamer and Sammy have come out of their races well. Both have eaten up and are fine. They will have a quiet day and then go back to work.
Luckily, for PRP, we had the happiness part. Gossamer finished 2nd under a good James Reveley ride and proved that he does appreciate slightly better ground. He battled away well to re-gain contention and then held his 2nd place well. We are very pleased with his return to placed form.
Sammy had a slightly more exciting afternoon as we had a last-minute jockey change when Catherine Walton was unseated in the 2nd race and was left unable to take up any other booked rides. Harry Challoner (claiming 5) took her place and, having never even seen the horse before, let alone sat on him, gave a very positive and patient ride to bring him home in 3rd. He jumped superbly and we can only be pleased with the confidence that will give him. He will definitely come on for the run and, safe to say, we are delighted with him.
Unfortunately, the afternoon was marred by Grand National winning jockey Ryan Mania suffering a fall in Chavoy's race (which he went on to win), in fact, right next to him. It was a very unusual fall in that the horse appeared to have jumped the fence fine but then crumpled a few strides after. Ryan was treated on the track and then air-lifted to hospital in Newcastle. It was reported that he had sustained a strong kick on the back between the shoulder blades but was conscious and able to move all limbs. He was put on a spinal board and has had several scans. Hopefully, these will show no long-lasting damage. We wish Ryan well and hope for a positive report on his progress tomorrow
Both Samson Collonges and On Gossamer Wings will run at Hexham tomorrow. Catherine Walton (claiming 7) partners Sammy and Gossamer has James Reveley in the plate.
Tomorrow at Carlisle - Sam Drake will ride.
We are hopeful that Wetherby will go ahead on Wednesday but just in case we have made an entry for Carlisle on Saturday too!
Newcastle look very doubtful after heavy rain and snow. They are planning to inspect and I will keep youi posted.
We have declared for Sedgefield tomorrow however it looks unlikely that racing will go ahead due to snow and ice. We've plenty of snow at Wynbury with top temperature of 0 degrees today forecast to go to -4 again tonight. Its not looking good for the Northern meetings this week.
We have made entries as follows:
On Gossamer wings - Tuesday @ Sedgefield and Thursday @ Hexham
Samson Collonges @ Hexham
Both On Gossamer Wings and Samson Collonges worked very well this morning and will both head for Hexham a week on Thursday all being well.
Abandoned due to snow, we will now aim for Newcastle on Friday instead - the weight is slightly higher so James Reveley will ride him.
Samson has been declared for Sedgefield tomorrow, we have booked Catherine Walton to ride him as she does much of the schooling work with him at home. The top horse looks the one to beat but Samson should like the ground and he has a nice weight. The main objective will be to get a clear round in to him to refill his confidence after Ayr.
Catherine rode two winners at yesterdays P2P at Anwick, one for us (GALANT NUIT) who will now try to qualify for the Foxhunters at the Cheltenham festival next month. . .
A Cheltenham Preview Evening will be held on Friday 1st March at Catterick Racecourse. Ferdy will be on the panel, sharing his views and opinions and he will be joined by Brian Hughes and Andy Gibson (At The Races). Whilst the panel can't go through every single race over the 4 days, they do go into detail on all of the main races and try and cover as many others as possible. It is always informative and entertaining- and often lively - as questions are encouraged from the floor too.
The evening starts at 7. 30pm and will include a pie and pea supper. A cash bar will be operational throughout. Tickets cost £10, with all proceeds going to Racing Welfare. Tickets are available from Catterick Racecourse Office or from Anne Jaques-Morgan on 07895030353.
Smoked Salmon and profiteroles
Been a difficult few weeks with racing cancellations and severe weather conditions all over the country.
We have been very lucky as we’ve managed to keep the gallop open at all times and made full use of the indoor school for jumping training. Regular trips to Redcar beach keep the horses mentally and physically sound and have proven an invaluable training aid.
A lot of credit has to go to Simon, our Gallopman and conditional jockey John Winston who have been working really hard to get the surface just perfect. Its a real art getting it right and harrowing just a couple of centimeters too deep could end in disaster. With temperatures getting down to as low as -9 overnight, watering and exercising the horses gets extremely difficult and everyone has had to pull together and work as a team to keep the ball rolling.
The hard work has paid off and the recent results from the yard are very pleasing, we had a winner at Kelso last Sunday (MANSONNIEN L’AS) and a winner and two seconds at Ayr on Wednesday (HOLLO LADIES). We were very lucky that there was an additional fixture programmed at such short notice at Ayr. Clerk of the course Emma Marley suggested that as they were the only jumps track in the UK with a positive weather forecast, the BHA should consider staging a meeting 4 days later at the Scottish racecourse. She was proven to be correct even after several frost/ snow scares, racing was given the go-ahead at 12. 00pm on the day. With the uncertainty and unpredictability of the weather in recent times perhaps this should be the way forward for British NH racing, the races received plenty of support from trainers from all over England and Scotland and there was a decent crowd considering the lack of notice to promote the event.
Ayr really look after the owners and trainers that visit the track and go the extra mile by providing a complimentary three course lunch in the neighboring Western House Hotel. Even though we had seven runners I still managed to find the time to call in and have a selection of smoked salmon and profiteroles before racing (strange combination, but set me up for a busy day!). A very long drive home, combined with a 45-minute tacograph break at Gretna Green services resulted in us getting back to the yard at 11. 30pm but spirits were high on our return. I have to say that I bounced out of bed the following morning at 6. 00am and have been buzzing ever since. It’s fantastic when a plan comes together and a lot of hard graft pays off.
I am currently watching our CCTV from the office and I can see plenty more white flakes falling down upon the Wynbury driveway. John & Simon are still busy harrowing the gallop and I currently have the racing calendar open in front of me, occasionally glancing down at meetings that probably aren’t going to go ahead. Its frustrating to have so many horses fresh and ready to run and no where to go with them, we’ll aim to keep them sound and happy at home so we have plenty to work with when the racing begins again.
This morning we schooled about 40 horses over hurdles in the indoor arena, James Reveley came in and sat on a few young horses to put them through their paces. Its a crucial part of what we do, sometimes its straightforward but other times horses need individual attention to perfect their technique and its very useful to have James to do this.
James has been involved with horses all his life, son of Keith and Grandson of the highly successful Mary Reveley. During the British season he rides for his father, Ferdy and Nick Williams. He comes to us on a Tuesday and Friday to ride and school horses in the yard. To date he has chalked a credible 180 winners for his 23 years. He is a true Francofile as he has taught himself to speak French fluently and he spends the summer race riding in France. He has achieved 80 winners there. His career aims include winning the Grand National, The Grand SteepleChase de Paris and the Pardubice. He came fourth in the latter race on the Nick Williams trained Maljimar in 2012. Quite some achievement. He’s a very useful part of the team!
Our headgirl Carly has been working hard in freezing conditions and she’s always the first one to arrive in the yard at 5. 30am. She drives a Citroen C3, which she manages to plough through the snow from a village out in the sticks of the Dales. She’s a “Yorkshire Lass” through and through and the weather never stops her getting to work! I’m lucky enough to live on the yard so the commute in to work never gets affected, however I’ve slipped over three times on the ice on my way in, much to the amusement of my fellow collegues.
We have A LOT of snow this morning and it is falling heavily now. The ground is also frozen underneath the snow and its not forecast to get any warmer for a few days.
Samson schooled well again yesterday and had a good work session this morning which will hopefully leave him right for his race next week. HOWEVER - Catterick updated their official going today at 3. 15pm and said "Soft (Frozen)
-4C overnight and a light snow shower
Forecast: Remaining wintry with overnight frosts. Snow, heavy
at times, Friday evening/overnight, with further snow showers
Saturday,Sunday and Monday. Staying cold next week"
It doesn't look too optimistic, we have plenty of snow here so we'll just have to monitor the situation. If there are any other suitable options available for him I will keep you posted. B
Mansonnien L'as ran a great race to win in good style up at Kelso yesterday. He's a brave , tough horse who seems to be improving all the time. We have been able to get plenty of work in to the horses over the last week which seems to have done the trick. Snow is currently falling at Wynbury but hopefully we will be able to get everything cantered before it sticks. Just a reminder that there are shares available in Samson Collonges (who runs at Catterick before the end of the month) and Chavoy, who is ready to run now. Please email me for details.
Please let me know if you would like to receive a copy of the December Newsletter - e-mail premierracingpartnerships@hotmail. Co. Uk
On Gossamer Wings - there is a race in Leicester on Tuesday 22nd January for conditional jockeys 2m4f 0-100. Think the track would suit him and we nearly always find good ground there! We will aim for this. . .
Samson Collonges rode out yesterday and seems in exceptionally good order, he will go to Catterick on Wednesday 23rd January 3m1f 0-95 handicap chase. Jo Watts will be in on Monday to do a bit of schooling with him and he should be back on song for the race.
Had a good morning yesterday with a few partners, the weather was kind to us and we managed to watch a few horses work up the gallops. Vuvuzela was center of attention and received his own bodyweight in polos and carrots (which he loved!). He will start his walker work in 10 days and we will re-scan him after that to see his progress. I'll keep everyone updated.
Chavoy rode out yesterday and seems in particularily good form, he will go for a novice hurdle towards the end of this month.
Just a reminder that everyone is welcome to visit the yard tomorrow morning at 9. 30am. We will aim to watch a few horses work up the gallop and have a coffee / chat. If you are attending please could you let me know on 07843169217
Thanks, B
Really looking forward to seeing how Samson will cope with the very testing ground here at Ayr today. He's travelled up to the track really well and I'll take him out for a leg stretch in a while out on the track. They are inspecting at 7. 30am today but with only 1mm of rain overnight I'm sure they will be hopeful of racing.
We will head to Ayr on Wednesday - the ground and track should suit so that's his aim.
Gossamer in good form after last run so Ferdy has decided to enter him up again at Catterick on Friday. 2m3f handicap chase.
Gossamer ran a really game race on ground which wasn't ideal for him. Will come on again for the run and we will probably step him up to 2 1/2 miles next time.
Racing was abandoned yesterday at Hexham which was a real shame as Samson looked the likely winner on paper. We had owners Keith & Sandra in for a visit anyway, it was great to see them before Christmas and we couldn't have asked for better weather for a day in the card. It was a cold and frosty morning and we managed to work a group of horses up the gallop for them to watch. Samson worked really well, and it was very very tempting to put him in the re-opened 3m1f race at Folkestone next Tuesday. . . . . But I think we'll wait for something a little closer. . . . .
Hexham
(Updated: 10:01) HEAVY, Soft in places (light frost)
(GoingStick: 5. 5 on Sunday at 11:00)
INSPECTION 8am Wednesday am due to forecast of overnight temps dropping to -2c
x4 hurdles have been moved onto fresher ground. Bend up hill has been moved onto fresh ground.
Back straight horses will run on standside (same as last meeting not as originally planned) to reduce chances of frost from shadows. Temps dropped to -1c overnight. Very slight crust but not a problem. Daytime temps today expected to get up to 4c.
Chance of another frost Tuesday evening into Wednesday. Could drop to -2c with Daytime temps struggling to get above 3c.
Monitoring closely. Fence 1&7 & also Hurdle 1 will be omitted for all races.
We have declared SAMSON COLLONGES tomorrow at Hexham in the Woodcock Handicap Chase (CLASS 5) (4yo 0-95) Winner £1,949 . There are 6 declared runners however Tim Vaughans horse ran today and finished 2nd so is unlikely to make the trip up. Theres an 8. 00 am inspection but the clerk of the course in relatively confident that racing will go ahead. They were raceable today and 10. 00am so we'll be keeping our fingers crossed that we get racing.
Ouest Eclair ran today in Sedgefield and didn't enjoy the testing conditions, he loves a quicker surface so we will wait for some better ground before going again.
Rocky will run in the 3m1f Winningexpress. Com Novices' Handicap Chase
Samson is entered again for the 3m1f handicap chase at Hexham. There are only 11 entries so fingers crossed the weather stays kind to us and we get racing! There are still some shares left in him and its not too late to get involved before Wednesday! E-mail me on rebeccaelizabeth. Menzies@hotmail. Co. Uk for more information!
This year Ferdy has launched the Wynbury Winners Challenge, which is a bit like an equine Dream Team. Anyone can enter (only once per person, though, for the more competitive amongst us!) and will pick 4 horses that are currently in training with Ferdy to follow through the season. Horses will earn points for finishing 1st, 2nd or 3rd and the person with the highest score at the end of the season will be crowned the winner. This year the dates between which the horses will earn points are 14th December 2012 and 1st May 2013 - so get your entries in quickly.
Prizes are available, so please join in and have a go. Full details of rules and how to enter are on Ferdy's website - www. Ferdymurphy. Co. Uk.
Both Samson and Rocking & Reelin have been entered at Wetherby on Saturday. We will now cross our fingers that the weather is kind to us and racing will be on!
Sammy will also be entered at Hexham on 12th December, with this currently being the preferred option for him. We will continue to monitor the weather and make a decision later in the week.
Ground reports for the coming week (praying for sunshine. . . )
Wetherby (Confirmed: 11:58, 26th Nov) Soft, Heavy in places (waterlogged)
FOLLOWING THE FURTHER 1/2 INCH OF RAIN OVERNIGHT AND THE
FORECAST FOR THE REMAINDER OF MONDAY AND TUESDAY, THE RACE
MEETING HAS BEEN ABANDONED DUE TO A FLOODED TRACK.
15mm rain on Wednesday. 7mm rain on Thursday. Dry throughout
Friday. 35mm rain on Saturday night. Further 12mm rain on Sunday
night and forecast a further 20mm throughout Monday
Newbury (Updated: 8:31) Soft Heavy in places
Last 24hrs 1. 5mm
Forecast:Tues light showers am turning patchy and then dry.
Wed:Dry with a risk of light showers. Max 8 Min overnight zero
Thur Dry clear and Bright. Max 6 Min overnight zero
Fri Dry clear and Bright. Max 5 Min overnight zero /-1
Sat Dry clear and Bright Max 5.
Uttoxeter (Updated: 10:52) CHASES ABANDONED - Now an All Hurdle Card. With an additional
2m4f Nov Hur - Entries close noon.
Hurdle - HEAVY
(GoingStick: 5. 2 on Tuesday at 09:30)
Hurdles only. Hurdle course at longest (add 58yds per
circuit) with hurdles located adjacent to chase fences
and dolled out wide
Rainfall:
Wednesday - 25mm (1 inch)
Thursday night - 11. 5mm
Saturday pm/Sunday am - 31mm (1. 24")
Sunday night - 2mm
Monday night/Tuesday am - 5. 5mm
After overnight rain now dry and breezy with minimal rain
forecast today. Dry and cool tomorrow and Thursday. Monitoring
temperatures as frost creeps into the equation.
Musselburgh (Updated: 8:28) Good to Soft, Soft in Places
All Bends have been moved to provide fresh ground
22m Rain over weekend Dry since Sunday
Tues am dry cloudy and cold
Forecast Dry Cold with some Sun
some wintry showers possible
Doncaster (Updated: 14:49, 26th Nov) Soft, Heavy in Places
35mm of rainfall in total Saturday the 24th and Sunday the 25th
8mm of rainfall at 14. 00 on Monday 26th November
Further rain forecast Monday night
Bangor-On-Dee (Updated: 9:39) Soft, Heavy in Places (some small areas of standing water)
25mm of rain in the past 24 hours.
Forecast: Possible further light showers during Tuesday. It is
then due to turn more settled and dry but colder till the
weekend.
Newcastle (Updated: 9:37) HEAVY (waterlogged in pls)
All bends moved to provide as much fresh ground as possible.
The 3m bend and bend into straight have been divided to ensure
best ground possible for hurdlers.
All hurdle sites have been moved. All bar one have been moved
inside to allow fresh ground not raced on since March.
49mm of rain fell on course yesterday (75mm in last 4 days).
Worst of main rain has passed however we do expect some showers
on and off today. 2-4mm today & similar overnight this eve.
Turning drier & cooler thereafter with strengthening winds.
Monitoring closely.
Towcester (Updated: 9:14, 26th Nov) Soft
Chase and Hurdle Courses on shared bends.
Hurdle Course dolled out onto fresh ground.
29mm Rain over Weekend.
Standing water returned in some places along the bottom of the
hill.
Forecast to improve,drier and cold from tomorrow onwards.
Any travelling companion horses are to be booked in with the
Clerk of the Course at least 24 Hrs before racing. IF NOT BOOKED
IN,THEY WILL BE TURNED AWAY.
Clerk of the Course - Robert Bellamy 07836 / 241458
Carlisle (Updated: 12:04) Heavy (waterlogged in places)
All bends moved out futher 2 yrds
A further 24mm last 24 hours. Tuesday onwards - dry, sunny
spells, getting colder -2C/-3C overnight, 4C/ 5C during day
Leicester (Updated: 8:54) Hurdles- Heavy waterlogged in places. Chase- Soft,Good to Soft in
places and Heavy waterlogged in places on the flat course
crossings.
6 mm Rain overnight. Forecast:Dry and colder all week with slight
frosts overnight.
Samson has eaten up and will have an enjoyable morning out in the field with Rocky and Brandon Thomas. Not sure where we will go with him yet but we'll ride him out tomorrow and see how he is. What a star!
2m4f conditional jockeys hurdle
Samson Collonges has followed up with another win today in very testing ground at Hexham. We are so pleased with how his jumping has progressed and he seems to have gained a lot of confidence. He looks like he's going to keep improving and shares still remain in him!!!
Ran a good race in Leicester yesterday to finish second. Looked like the weight just beat him but he jumped very well and ran on in the finish. Lease shares are available in him, please e-mail me for details.
Both Samson Collonges and Rocking and Reelin will run tomorrow at Hexham. Lucy Alexander rides Samson and Tony Kelly will ride Rocking.
We have made the following entries for the PRP horses:
Samson Collonges : WARWICK, 3m2f 0-100 handicap chase and HEXHAM 2m4f Handicap chase 0-95.
Rocking and Reelin : HEXHAM 2m 0-110 Beginners chase
We will monitor the weather and decide where to go over the weekend.
Both Samson Collonges and Vuvuzela are 100% after their races, Vuvuzela is enjoying a leg stretch in the field this morning with the other runners from yesterday.
Vuvuzela was a very impressive winner today - James Reveley said he jumped very well and battled strongly to the line. He has continued to improve every run and I am so pleased with how he has progressed. He'll probably have a short break now and run again at Christmas.
Great handicap mark and has come out of the race really well, get a winning winter horse in time for Christmas!
A fantastic day for the yard, with 2 winners, three seconds and two more placed horses! Sam Twiston Davies gave Samson a great ride, beating stable mate "Mansonnien L'as" by 1 3/4 lengths. The Racing Post Analysis on Saturday said, " Samson Collonges" showed the benefit of a previous start this Autumn, coming through from a stalking position at the back of the field to take up the running approaching the last fence. He appreciates a staying trip on this testing ground, and this first success at the ninth attempt over fences shouldn't be his last under such conditions".
It was a great day for Vuvuzela's and Rockin and Reelin's rider Tony Kelly who had a double at Hexham winning on Diane Sayer's horse " Shoal Bay Dreamer" and "Ibn Hiyann" for Ferdy.
We will be entering Samson Collonges at Hexham a week tomorrow (friday) in a 3m 0-95 chase. He worked very well yesterday and seems to have improved for his last run. The handicapper has dropped him another 3lbs which is slightly confusing considering the horses he ran against (and beat) last time were rated much higher than him.
Vuvuzela has been declared tomorrow in the first race. Tony Kelly rides as James Reveley is in Uttoxeter for the day.
The October Owners Newsletter has been sent to the regular subscribers - hopefully, you will find it an enjoyable read. If you are not currently on the list and want to receive a copy, please send your current e-mail address or contact details to premierracingpartnerships@hotmail. Co. Uk
Entered for Kelso on Saturday 2m6f novice hurdle
2m4f novice hurdle wednesday
Samson worked very well today and will probably have an entry at Wetherby in the 2m4f novice hurdle on the 17 October.
Rocking and reelin runs in the 3m novice hurdle tomorrow at Hexham. The ground has been described as heavy, soft in places , which he should love but we expect he will come on for the run. He has improved a lot since last year and really has strengthened up. I think he'll give a good performance. We were very pleased with Vuvuzela at Sedgefield, James said that he jumped really well and settled better than in his bumper. The pace of the race seemed to suit him as it allowed for him to be dropped in and to relax, he's come out of the race really well and was extremely fresh this morning (back to usual!!!!) B
James Reveley is provisionally booked to ride
In the 3m Novice hurdle at Hexham - link to the racecard : http://www. Racingpost. Com/horses2/cards/card. Sd?race_id=563672&r_date=2012-10-05#raceTabs=sc_
Tony Kelly is already jocked up on him.
Its continuing to rain in West Witton - Ferdy and the lads have been working round the clock digging channels on the gallops to prevent it from slipping down the hill. So far so good and we've been able to keep the horses cantering in the indoor school. We're hoping that the back ring will be dry enough this morning, its just getting light here now so we'll have to wait and see.
This season will see the introduction of a monthly update for owners. It will include news on each of the horses, including their intended targets, as well as general updates from Wynbury.
Every owner will receive the inaugural edition later this week and will be given the choice as to whether they wish to receive it in future. Hopefully, you will find it useful and informative but any feedback will be welcome - including any thoughts on anything else you would like to see included.
Why not book into the Wensleydale Heifer this Christmas for an ultimate get away? There is also a tour of Wynbury Stables on Boxing Day morning! Visit http://www. Wensleydaleheifer. Co. Uk/events. Html for further info. . .
WELL, IT IS THAT TIME AGAIN, AUTUMN BECKONS AND WE ALL LOOK FORWARD TO A NEW SEASON. IT COULD NOT HAVE STARTED OFF IN A BETTER WAY.
OWNERS, PROSPECTIVE OWNERS, INTERESTED PARTIES, FRIENDS AND FAMILY ALL GATHERED IN THE LARGE BARN AT WYNBURY TO WATCH THE BBQ DAY PARADE OF 60 HORSES. SOME WERE LAID BACK, SOME VERY FRESH AND FULL OF THEMSELVES WITH VIEWERS COMMENTING ON THEIR GOOD CONDITION.
FERDY GAVE A DETAILED COMMENTARY WITH INFORMATION THAT INCLUDED FEATURES SUCH AS EACH HORSE’S BREEDING, OWNERSHIP, HEALTH, FORM, PROSPECTS FOR THE COMING YEAR, AND WHETHER THEY WERE AVAILABLE FOR SYNDICATION OR FOR SALE ETC.
As the rain started the horses were settled in their stables and the visitors made their way to the marquee. An excellent hog roast, sweets, along with plenty of wine, music and good company made for a great day. Here, amongst the discussion about the horses, racing gossip and some good craic there were expressions of best wishes to Wynbury for a great season ahead.
This was one of the feedbacks from this morning’s mail.
“This Sunday’s Open Day at Wynbury was our first visit to Ferdy’s stables. We enjoyed a really good few hours of informative introduction to the stable stars and also the up and coming youngsters. The relaxed and sociable format of being able to wander through the yard, meet the horses and extremely helpful staff worked well and the following hospitality - including the fun band - made for a very pleasant time. It was great to see such obviously well looked after racehorses - all a picture of health and happy in themselves.
Having attended other national hunt stable tours, up at Wynbury we were made to feel very welcome and we look forward to following the progress of Ferdy’s horses over the coming season. "
Many thanks to everybody at Wynbury.
Vanessa & Chris Leak
Thornton Steward
Tony and Pauline Weight came in this morning to see vuvuzela and Samson on the gallops, both horses are going really well - Vuvu was slightly reluctant to keep still for photos as usual but Samson was cooperative! Mary came on Saturday to see Rocking and Reelin in action, she brought along baby Freja to meet him, but unfortunately, she slept through the whole morning ! Definately won't be too long until she wants a pony! Amanda and Anne are coming to visit tomorrow but unfortunately I'll be in Perth so I'll leave Ferdy 'in charge' . . .
The horses all had their annual flu/tetanus/herpes vaccinations on Thursday and have now resumed their work on the gallops this morning. I'm so pleased with how they have all progressed over the summer. Rocky has a new friend in 'stacie' who has started riding him and looking after him on a daily basis. They have formed a bond really quickly and I think this will be a catalyst for success this year. Samson and vuvuzela are as fresh as ever and vuvuzela seems to have grown a bit while at grass. I'll post photographs soon !
Please let me know if you can come to the FMR owners day on the 16th September - it really is a great day out. B
All the horses did their first bits of cantering yesterday morning, everyone is welcome to visit the yard before the BBQ in September to see how they are progressing. Please just call my mobile to arrange. B
The open day has been postponed, I know many of you couldn't make the Auguat date so I hope the change will suit everyone. Please drop me an email to rebeccaelizabeth. Menzies@hotmail. Co. Uk to confirm your attendance. Many thanks for your co-operation. B
The red and yellow colours submitted by Tony and Pauline Weight have been voted for Vuvuzela. I will have them made up next week and I'm looking forward to seeing him run in them this season. All of the horses will be brought back in to work within the next two weeks, ideally, they would be left out longer but with the current weather conditions this doesn't look possible .
The owners BBQ & parade of horses will be held on the 19th August at Wynbury. Ferdy would like to invite you all and I'd be grateful if you could confirm attendance and numbers with me to rebeccaelizabeth. Menzies@hotmail. Co. Uk. If anyone would like assistance booking a hotel etc then please drop me a line. B
Two sets of colours for the Vuvuzela partnership have so far been nominated, please see the horses section of the website for further details.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Sedgefield ground and race looks to be ideal for samson on Wednesday so keeping everything crossed for a great run. He was outstanding in the chairty race, running over a much shorter distance that would have suited him and finished a brave 7th/12th. I was one place ahead of him on Formulation and a great day was had by all (horses and people!). Collectively Zoe and I have raised a great deal for the injured jockeys fund which is brilliant.
Samson ran well again to finish 4th - Lucy reported that he would be much better going on a left handed track. He jumped left at a lot of his fences and bumped in to a horse at the second fence which really knocked the stuffing out of him. He seemed to handle the better ground down the back straight so he looks promising for a late spring/early summer campaign. There are plenty of options coming up for him :
Sedgefield 30th May (WEDNESDAY) - 2m4f novice handicap chase
Cartmel 2nd June (SATURDAY) - 3m2f Intermediate handicap chase & 0-100 2m5f chase
Hexham 9th June (Saturday) 3m Handicap chase
Vuvuzela and Rocky are doing really well in the field, Vuvu can't really make his mind up which paddock he wants to be in and regularily jumps out in to another one over a substantial railed fence! See seems to be having lots of fun anyway. I'm counting down the days until my race, getting a little nervous now and I still need to find a horse!!!
Thanks so much to everyone who has sponsored me so far on the justgiving website. . . My total for last year and this year combined is £2,994 already and there's still nearly three weeks to go!!
I ran up the gallop last night (well got to about half way up in the deep sand!!) and have been working really hard on the weight. . . Its a great cause and all of the support I've already been given has really spurred me along. I can't wait for the day itself and if anyone wants to join me in Kelso please drop me an e-mail and I'll help to organise you some tickets.
www. Justgiving. Com/rebecca-menzies
Samson is number 1 on the ballot for his race on Friday. . . . However they are forcast up to 16ml of rain up until the race and i'm thinking that the few "good ground" horses above him will come out and he'll get a run. Fingers crossed as it would be great to have a winner on my Birthday!!!!
All co-owners of Vuvuzela have the chance to choose a set of racing silks for next year. I think the best way forward is for everyone to choose one set (which are available) and submit them to me - I will then put the selection on the website and everyone can vote on which set they like best.
The website link below takes you to the "allertons" site where you can have a play around with colour combinations. Only certain colours/designs are available to register in England so please check the BHA website or contact me if your unsure. Happy designing!!!
http://www. Allertons. Com/oddington/pages/Colours/design_colours. Html
SOFT (HEAVY in places)
(GoingStick: 5. 6 on Monday at 07:30)
Divided bends. Chasers on innermost rail.
9mm of rain yesterday. Forecast to be dry and cloudy today and
tomorrow with temperatures around 10C
Vuvu has been declared for tomorrow in Sedgefield, the race looks competitive with a really well bred horse of Donald Mccains and a dual point to point winner from the Will Kinsey yard to beat. We think he'll run well again and it would be great to win one before he goes out for his summer's rest. James Reveley rides.
Samson has come out of his run really well and weather permitting he will run on Saturday night in Hexham.
Samson Collonges and Rocky both ran blinders yesterday to finish 4th and 3rd. We were really pleased with them, Samson will come on for the run and was a bit "ring rusty" after a break. Rocking and Reelin ran a blinder and the heavy going really suits him, I'm looking forward to seeing him over fences next year and its great we have earnt some money for Cancer Research this season. He'll now go in the field for his summer holiday and return back in July. Samson will run again in a few weeks and will have a couple more runs in to the summer.
Vuvuzela will run at Towcester in the bumper on Tuesday evening, it looks a competitive enough race but Racing Post rate him as the second highest in the entries and we think the track will really suit him.
Rocking and Reelin will hopefully go to Hexham on Monday for another novice hurdle, this will probably be his last run before a summer break. We've taken things slowly with him as we know his future will lie in chasing next year.
Samson is entered to run in a 0-95 3m chase in Hexham on Monday, he's number 4 in the ballot but hopefully with a bit of rain the good ground horses will come out getting him a run.
We have shares available in exciting up and coming staying chaser Samson Collognes.
£1000 per 1/12th share and £150 per month (inc VAT)
He's a striking white/grey horse with a fantastic attitude and loves a trip on winter ground. Ferdy thinks an awful lot of him and with his handicap mark we are hoping he can run up a sequence. He'll have a couple of runs now before the end of the season, then we'll put him in the paddock until the end of August for him to fill out and mature.
Please call me / e-mail for further details or to arrange a visit to see him on the gallops!
07843169217
We have entered Vuvu in another bumper on Sunday. It looks fairly competitive with a field of 45 horses entered, we'll check the ground on Friday and decide whether or not to run. He's really well and there seem to be plenty of options for him in the near future including Hexham and Perth.
We'll be taking Samson Collognes to Ann Duffields yard on Good Friday to try and get some interest in shares for him (watch this space!!!)
Great for the yard to get a winner on Sunday and two seconds on Saturday. A couple have scoped badly recently so it was promising to get some positive results on the track. We have a lot of entries this week and hopefully we can bank a few more winners!
Vuvuzela and Rocking and Reelin are well in themselves and will both be back out on the track around easter.
I have been asked to ride in the Injured jockeys fund charity race at Kelso on the 27th May 2012, most of you will know I took part in the race last year (had a good practice round!!!) and I am looking forward to winning it this time!!! I have set up my Just Giving account again this year and any donations would be really gratefully received.
www. Justgiving. Com/rebecca-menzies
Sedgefield have updated their official going to GOOD with a fairly dry forecast predicted up until Sunday. There may be a slight concern with Rockin as I think he'd like a bit more cut in the ground. Vuvu should be ok on it (his full sister loves these conditions) but i'll keep monitoring the reports and let everyone know the plans tomorrow!
Both horses are entered at Sedgefield on Sunday.
Rockin and Reelin 2m4f Novice hurdle (2. 20pm)
Vuvuzela in the bumper (5. 20pm)
There are plenty of entries in both races so I will update you with their ballot marks this evening when I return from Catterick.
Taken from Godolphin's website:
Willie Cowe, head lad to James Ewart, Christopher Lynn, stable lad with Ferdy Murphy, Charlotte Cox, stable lass with Henry Candy, and Graham Nicklin, stud groom at Glebe Stud, are the other winners of the Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards announced on Monday, February 27.
The Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards, with prize money of £120,000 donated by Godolphin, highlight the dedication, desire, and skill of those who work behind the scenes on stud farms and at trainers’ stables across Britain, recognising their hard work that could otherwise go largely unnoticed.
Cowe gained the Dedication to Racing Award, with the two runners-up being Burney Hutchinson, head lad to David Lanigan, and Lenny Brinkley, feedman with Roger Varian. This award goes to a long-serving member of staff who has been employed for at least 10 years within the industry and is an integral part of the team, offering a wealth of experience, knowledge and dedication to their job.
Lynn took the David Nicholson Newcomer Award from Katy Tyler, a rider and groom with Mark Johnston, and Robyn Gray, head lass to Dianne Sayer. The award is for those who have displayed a desire to improve, have progressed their skills and knowledge and become an integral part of the team while employed in the industry for less than three years.
Cox captured the Rider/Groom Award ahead of Peter Johnson, head lad with Johnson Racing Limited, and Zafar Abbas, a groom with Godolphin trainer Mahmood Al Zarooni. Those qualifying for the award have shown talent for horsemanship, consistency and reliability in and out of the saddle.
Nicklin took the Stud Staff Award from Frances Eilbeck, stud groom at Minster Stud and Gordon Laing, assistant stud groom at Fittocks Stud. This award is open to those who have shown expertise, dedication and reliability, excellent horsemanship, adaptability and teamwork while employed within a stud.
Each winner of an award received £5,000 and the two runners-up gained £2,000, with their colleagues benefiting from the same amounts.
Jerry Walsh, travelling head lad with Paul Webber, took the separate NASS Special Merit Award, judged by the NASS Executive and announced previously, and he received an individual prize of £5,000.
The main awards were judged by a panel comprising author and journalist Brough Scott (chairman); Dinah Nicholson, wife of the late David Nicholson; David Redvers, bloodstock agent; Pat Eddery, three-time Derby winner and 11-time British champion Flat jockey; Ian Balding, former champion trainer; and Judith Allen, executive director of the British Horseracing and Education Standards Trust.
Paul Hanagan, the champion Flat jockey who presented the awards, said: “This is a really special day for everyone involved. Jockeys know more than most the level of dedication and hard work demonstrated every day by stud and stable staff.
“It is a real privilege to spend time with them and to be able to acknowledge everything they do for the sport in front of their family, friends and colleagues. ”
Run by the British Horseracing Authority in conjunction with the Racing Post newspaper, the Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards are the richest of their kind in the world.
We are planning to run Vuvuzela on Sunday 4th March in another bumper around Sedgefield so keep your diaries clear! There are a couple of other options in case of a ballot including Newcastle on the 6th and Carlisle on the 8th but we're aiming for Sedgefield. We worked him yesterday and he excelled, it seems he has really improved for his last run.
Rocking and Reelin has had a steady couple of weeks after his run as he came back from Newcastle a little "wired". He was getting a bit too enthusiastic on the gallop so we have backed off him a bit to level his head! Personally, I quite like the spark he has shown but saying that, i'm not the one who has to ride him!! FM is always very careful with his younger horses and never pushes them too hard, its all part of his education.
Vuvuzela was really impressive on Sunday and Robbie gave him a great ride. The original plan was to go straight over hurdles with him but that run suggests he could probably be placed again (if not win) another bumper. There's a race in Sedgefield towards the end of the month, so we'll see how he's going nearer the time and make a decision.
Haydock have kindly allowed us to bring a group of horses to the track to work tomorrow evening after racing. Its really beneficial for us to do this, it gives the horses a really good 'blow' and a nice change of scenery for the day. It will become a big part of the preparation for our Cheltenham team and also Negus De Beaumont who will run in the Eider Chase on Saturday at Newcastle.
We've had some terrible luck over the last few days, it started badly with Charingworth at Ayr (for those who didn't see - he was infront with plenty left in the tank and unseated Lucy at the last fence). It was a long journey home, but luckily both horse and rider were unharmed.
Southwell saw Graham Lee being unseated from Rich Lord and dislocating his hip. This was a major, major blow as it looks like he will be out of Cheltenham, he's had some surgery and reports suggest he is feeling a lot better than he was. Fingers crossed he won't be away too long.
Keith Mercer got a fall yesterday in Leicester and suffered minor concussion, which has resulted in him being stood down for a short period of time.
On Gossamer wings ran a great race yesterday to finish third to Red Tanber at Musselburgh so I suppose that kind of saved the week a little bit. . . . . . . . . . (!)
I never like saying things couldn't get much worse because they could, but surely this week our luck has got to change. Starting with Pistol Basc and Rich Lord on Sunday!!!
There are still shares left in the horses featured on the website so if anyone is interested please drop my a line.
Vuvuzela was really impressive on Sunday and Robbie gave him a great ride. The original plan was to go straight over hurdles with him but that run suggests he could probably be placed again (if not win) another bumper. There's a race in Sedgefield towards the end of the month, so we'll see how he's going nearer the time and make a decision.
Haydock have kindly allowed us to bring a group of horses to the track to work tomorrow evening after racing. Its really beneficial for us to do this, it gives the horses a really good 'blow' and a nice change of scenery for the day. It will become a big part of the preparation for our Cheltenham team and also Negus De Beaumont who will run in the Eider Chase on Saturday at Newcastle.
We've had some terrible luck over the last few days, it started badly with Charingworth at Ayr (for those who didn't see - he was infront with plenty left in the tank and unseated Lucy at the last fence). It was a long journey home, but luckily both horse and rider were unharmed.
Southwell saw Graham Lee being unseated from Rich Lord and dislocating his hip. This was a major, major blow as it looks like he will be out of Cheltenham, he's had some surgery and reports suggest he is feeling a lot better than he was. Fingers crossed he won't be away too long.
Keith Mercer got a fall yesterday in Leicester and suffered minor concussion, which has resulted in him being stood down for a short period of time.
On Gossamer wings ran a great race yesterday to finish third to Red Tanber at Musselburgh so I suppose that kind of saved the week a little bit. . . . . . . . . . (!)
I never like saying things couldn't get much worse because they could, but surely this week our luck has got to change. Starting with Pistol Basc and Rich Lord on Sunday!!!
There are still shares left in the horses featured on the website so if anyone is interested please drop my a line.
Vuvuzela was really impressive on Sunday and Robbie gave him a great ride. The original plan was to go straight over hurdles with him but that run suggests he could probably be placed again (if not win) another bumper. There's a race in Sedgefield towards the end of the month, so we'll see how he's going nearer the time and make a decision.
Haydock have kindly allowed us to bring a group of horses to the track to work tomorrow evening after racing. Its really beneficial for us to do this, it gives the horses a really good 'blow' and a nice change of scenery for the day. It will become a big part of the preparation for our Cheltenham team and also Negus De Beaumont who will run in the Eider Chase on Saturday at Newcastle.
We've had some terrible luck over the last few days, it started badly with Charingworth at Ayr (for those who didn't see - he was infront with plenty left in the tank and unseated Lucy at the last fence). It was a long journey home, but luckily both horse and rider were unharmed.
Southwell saw Graham Lee being unseated from Rich Lord and dislocating his hip. This was a major, major blow as it looks like he will be out of Cheltenham, he's had some surgery and reports suggest he is feeling a lot better than he was. Fingers crossed he won't be away too long.
Keith Mercer got a fall yesterday in Leicester and suffered minor concussion, which has resulted in him being stood down for a short period of time.
On Gossamer wings ran a great race yesterday to finish third to Red Tanber at Musselburgh so I suppose that kind of saved the week a little bit. . . . . . . . . . (!)
I never like saying things couldn't get much worse because they could, but surely this week our luck has got to change. Starting with Pistol Basc and Rich Lord on Sunday!!!
There are still shares left in the horses featured on the website so if anyone is interested please drop my a line.
Vuvuzela was really impressive on Sunday and Robbie gave him a great ride. The original plan was to go straight over hurdles with him but that run suggests he could probably be placed again (if not win) another bumper. There's a race in Sedgefield towards the end of the month, so we'll see how he's going nearer the time and make a decision.
Haydock have kindly allowed us to bring a group of horses to the track to work tomorrow evening after racing. Its really beneficial for us to do this, it gives the horses a really good 'blow' and a nice change of scenery for the day. It will become a big part of the preparation for our Cheltenham team and also Negus De Beaumont who will run in the Eider Chase on Saturday at Newcastle.
We've had some terrible luck over the last few days, it started badly with Charingworth at Ayr (for those who didn't see - he was infront with plenty left in the tank and unseated Lucy at the last fence). It was a long journey home, but luckily both horse and rider were unharmed.
Southwell saw Graham Lee being unseated from Rich Lord and dislocating his hip. This was a major, major blow as it looks like he will be out of Cheltenham, he's had some surgery and reports suggest he is feeling a lot better than he was. Fingers crossed he won't be away too long.
Keith Mercer got a fall yesterday in Leicester and suffered minor concussion, which has resulted in him being stood down for a short period of time.
On Gossamer wings ran a great race yesterday to finish third to Red Tanber at Musselburgh so I suppose that kind of saved the week a little bit. . . . . . . . . . (!)
I never like saying things couldn't get much worse because they could, but surely this week our luck has got to change. Starting with Pistol Basc and Rich Lord on Sunday!!!
There are still shares left in the horses featured on the website so if anyone is interested please drop my a line.
I do not wish to tempt fate but hopefully Vuvuzela willl make his debut this weekend! Although he is declared for an "all weather" bumper, there is still a small chance weather could ruin our plans. I will keep in touch with you all by text until Sunday.
Robbie McCarth rides Vuvuzela every day at home so he is an ideal booking for the job,
We declared Vuvuzela tomorrow at Sedgefield but unfortunately it has been called off already due to snow. There is a bumper in Catterick on Monday so we'll enter him there and surely by then the weather will improve. . . . . .
I nominated Chris Lynn for the stud and stable staff awards in the newcomer category last year and we found out this week that he has been selected for the final three. This means he will receive at least a £2000 prize (and an additional £2000 for the yard) and he will attend the prestigious award ceremony at the Jumeriah Tower Hotel in London at the end of the month.
Chris Lynn has worked for Ferdy for two seasons and has been a brilliant asset to the team while he has been here. At only 18 Chris is remarkable for his age and I can see him going far in the future. I hope that when (if. . . ) I ever go training I can find someone as good as him to look after the yard when I'm racing. He's kindly chosen to take me to London with him, so i'm really looking forward to the ceremony.
Samson Collonges is for sale as a whole or into shares. If you'd like instant results and an absolutely stunning horse he's the one!
Please register any interest in him to me by e-mail! Ferdy would like £16000 for 100% of him.
Rocking and Reelin picked up some prize money on Wednesday and half of this will be donated to a cancer charity at the end of the partnership term.
Unfortunately we have lost Wetherby tomorrow for frost. It was -7 here this morning, so we shooled first lot in the indoor arena then took 7 to the beach.
Were forecast some snow tomorrow, we'll just have to see what happens over the weekend but I really hope to run Vuvu on Tuesday at Sedgefield.
We were really pleased with Rock yesterday, his jumping was exceptional - it really didn't look like his first outing over hurdles. He stayed on really well in the finish, and as we thought he looks like an out and out stayer. Tony gave him a great ride and was thrilled with his perfomance.
We could do with a few more parents for him! If anyone's interested please drop me an e-mail!
Vuvuzela will hopefully run on Saturday in a bumper. He has a ballot mark of 9 so all being well he will get in. We have made an entry for him on Tuesday at Sedgefield in case the frost ruins our plans. . . . . . . .
Its cold here this morning but the gallop is open, Graham Lee and Keith Mercer are in to work horses so looks like we'll have a good mornings graft!
Vuvuzela has been declared on Sunday in what looks a really competitive bumper at Sedgefield. Graham Lee rides and it should provide a really nice introduction for him.
Rockin and Reeling has also been entered next Wednesday in a 2m4f novice hurdle at Newcastle.
We have made entries for Vuvuzela in Sedgefield on Sunday. He has an entry in the bumper and the novice hurdle, with preference to run in the bumper.
The horses are all well and have recovered from the vaccination period. We had a really good winner in Ayr on Tuesday, Ockey De Neulliac won for the third time this season in a really confident manner.
We still plan to run Vuvuzela on the 29th January at Sedgefield, hopefully he will get in to the bumper but we'll enter him in the novice hurdle just in case he gets balloted. He has been doing plenty of work and had progressed a lot over the last couple of weeks. Rockin and Reelin galloped yesterday and he seems to have also improved a lot from his last run, we will probably aim to run him in 2-3 weeks in a 3m novice hurdle.
Graham Lee approaches 1000 winners, he has several booked rides at Catterick on Thursday and Musselburgh on Friday so watch this space!
Rocking has come out of his race really well and will have a few weeks at home before going over hurdles. Vuvuzela has done another couple of peices of work and now seems ready to run. We vaccinated the majority of the yard on Saturday which means the horses will get a few easy days.
We have looked through the racing calendar and a fixture on the 29th January at Sedgefield seems to suit - there is a 2m1f NH novice hurdle and a bumper so we'll probably enter Vuvu in both, look at the entered runners then decide which way we'll go.
We have declared the Rock tomorrow at Sedgefield to have another educational run in a bumper before he goes over hurdles next time. We have booked Tony Kelly to ride as he got on with him well last time.
We have declared the Rock tomorrow at Sedgefield to have another educational run in a bumper before he goes over hurdles next time. We have booked Tony Kelly to ride as he got on with him well last time.
Blue Shark seems ok after his run, the ground was a little too fast for him but he jumped really well and should go close when next seen in the North. Rocking and Reelin has an entry in the Bumper on Thursday at Sedgefield and all being well he will run with Tony Kelly riding him again.
Vuvuzela has done his first serious bit of work up the gallop this week and he did it really well. Robbie McCarth rode him and reported that he hasn't lost too much of his fitness and he won't take much more work before getting to a track. We may take him for a gallop somewhere before he runs which will bring him on leaps and bounds.
I'm currently in Ayr with the runners for the next couple of days, the weather is good so fingers crossed we'll be racing both days. . .
Rockin & Reeling came back from his race really well. He was quite green but showed a really good attitude. He will need a trip in time but he suggested we run him in another bumper to get some experience.
He has an entry in Sedgefield on Thursday but that was provisional in case Carlisle was called off yesterday.
Carlisle were 90% raceable at 8. 00 am so they have given it until 10. 00am to improve. .
I clipped Vuvu again on Friday and he looks incredible! He's going really well, i'll post more photos this week!
Following a 2. 00pm inspection today carlisle are currently raceable on the hurdle / bumper track. The going will be heavy and all steeple chases have been abandoned.
Rocking & Reelin will run on Sunday in a bumper, however (!) Carlisle are inspecting the track today at 2. 00pm. . . Fingers crossed for a bit of dry weather!
Blue Shark ran a blinder at Hexham to finish third, he absolutely loved the ground and should go really close next time.
We declared Rocking & Reelin tomorrow at Catterick but unfortunately he has been balloted out. We have re-entered him in Carlisle on Sunday instead.
Hexham inspect at 8. 00am tomorrow!
Rocking & Reelin has been entered in Musselburgh on Monday in a bumper.
Blue Shark has been entered at Hexham in a 2m4f handicap chase. The ground is soft/heavy there at the moment so we could do with it to stay like that!
We have made an entry for Rocking & Reelin in Musselburgh next Monday. Although the initial plan was to go straight over hurdles, Ferdy thinks that its important to give him a run in a bumper to sharpen him up and give him some racecourse experience. Musselburgh probably isn't the ideal track for him, but there seems to be a lack of suitable races nearer home and he's ready to rock and roll. . .
We have three runners in Catterick tomorrow and two at Uttoxeter and a fairly busy weekend ahead with runners in Wetherby, Aintree and Kelso.
Sorry its been so long since I updated this, ive been up and down the country with lots of runners!
Vuvuzela is back cantering up the big gallop now and is showing no signs of discomfort whatsoever. We'll see how he goes and how much fitness he has lost before deciding where to run him.
Ferdy has decided to run Rocking & Reelin in a bumper before he goes over hurdles, he is still very green and he will get a lot of experience from it. We are looking at a race in Catterick on the 13th December for him.
Vuvuzela seems 100% in himself and has started his trotting work today. He was really fresh and bounced around a bit but Tony Kelly managed to hang on and all was well!
He will trot for a few more days then begin cantering work towards the end of the week. I don't think he will have lost too much of his fitness as he was ready to run just before his box rest.
I'll keep you posted as the week goes on, but everything looks positive!
Yesterday was really busy with two runners at Cheltenham, four at Uttoxeter and three at Wetherby. Divers finished a brilliant 3rd in the Paddy Power in Cheltenham earning a handy £16000 for his owners. He always seems to pull it out of the bag when it matters. The horses ran well at Uttoxeter , Desperate Dex and Brandon Thomas both also finished third and Nine De Sivola ran a great race to finish 5th after a lengthy absence. Le Roi Rouge finished a good fourth, Frosty Lad and Ouest Eclair both needed the runs and will come on a lot for the outing.
I really appreciated the "lie in" til 8. 00am this morning and spent until 10am washing colours and preparing equipment for this weeks racing. I went and rode out Master Builder, an X Ferdy Murphy horse who has been re-homed to a friend of mine in Kirkby Lonsdale. Its great to see him so settled in to his new environment and he seems to be taking his new regime really well. Its really important for us to try and find good homes for the horses Ferdy has trained and we take lots of time to find an ideal place for them to go. So after an hour or so of galloping through fields , i'm now back home for the afternoon and currently waiting for my Sunday dinner!
Just a quick one! We had two winners on Tuesday (Gavroche Gaugain - Tony Kelly & Going Wrong - Graham Lee). We also had 3 seconds and a third. The horses are coming into serious form now and those having their second runs are really finishing close.
We have two runners tomorrow in Newcastle including a personal favorite of mine, Formulation. Our horses for Cheltenham will leave tomorrow and we have runners at three meetings on Saturday. We're crazily busy, but I wouldn't swap this for anything!!!
It feels brilliant to just sit down for a few moments to write this!
It was great to have two winners on Friday at Hexham, the horses really do look in amazing nick and finally it seems we are getting the results that we've been so patiently waiting for. Saturday (yesterday) had a few disappointing moments but we were thrilled with Kalahari King's run and he will come on a ton for the race. Abby & PJ got married yesterday and all went well, I did make the "night do" after Kelso (very very late) and Abby looked amazing. After a very long day- feeding at 4. 30am that morning, accidentally "blue-spraying" (an antibacterial spray used at the races) my manicured nails and half of my arm - I looked quite the opposite. . . But still, a great time was had by all!
I set off back this morning at 5. 30am so I could head to Market Rasen (on my day off!) as Tony had a ride down there for Malcolm Jefferson and required a chauffeur. The horse ran a blinder to finish 3rd, so all in all a good day.
Blue Shark runs tomorrow, there are 8 horses declared and the going is described as good to soft with no more rain forcast. This will be a little better than he wants it but he should handle it ok. We're hoping for a nice clear round and we've the top man on board as pilot.
We've another very busy week with runners nearly every day and i'm Cheltenham bound at the weekend.
Rocking and Reelin was very pleasing this morning during a work session with an older horse. Reports from the jockey were really promising and it seems he has matured a lot and improved no end since the beginning of the season. Ferdy wants to run him straight over hurdles and he'll be on the track within 4 weeks!
Keep your fingers crossed for a bit of rain for Blue Shark on Monday! The race can be viewed here :
http://www. Racingpost. Com/horses2/cards/card. Sd?race_id=541325&r_date=2011-11-07#raceTabs=sc_
We have made an entry for Blue Shark at Carlisle on Monday in the 2m4f handicap chase. I will be in touch with further plans!
Plenty of pleasing results over the weekend, Charingworth (3rd) Seigneur Des Bois finished 2nd (both at Wetherby). At Carlisle, Lord Villez (4th), Kellystown Lad (3rd) and at Huntingdon, Pillar of Hercules and Brandon Thomas finished 2nd.
We are happy with how the horses are progressing and they all seem really healthy and happy. Vuvuzela is getting a little agitated in his stable from the boredom, he could do with a few more visitors please! Blue Shark is doing great, we hope to have him back out next week at some point and Rocking and Reelin is shaping up in to a nice horse. We are schooling in the yard tomorrow then working them on Wednesday so if anyone would like to see Rockin' doing a bit of fast work then Wednesday would be a good opportunity.
October is a strange month for the yard every year, we seem to spend it looking forward to November and wishing that it would just pass that little bit quicker. The month is spent learning, finding everything out about our new horses and how the older ones have progressed since last year. The horses are 'stepped up' in their work, which also uncovers a range of minor problems that may have been niggling for some time. Many get their "MOT" tests conducted by vets, physio's and dentists to resolve anything before the season gets into full swing.
The horses are appearing on the track for the first time and like always the majority of them need the run, results in October always seem 'dissapointing' to the untrained eye, but i'm sure you'll understand the reasons for the number of unplaced horses.
Had a great morning today, plenty of horses galloped. Graham Lee & Keith Mercer joined us for three lots. Graham rode Blue Shark and he's really pleased with how he has come on for the run at Kelso. Its highly unlikely he will run on Friday due to the ground but we'll try and find somewhere suitable for him next week.
Amanda Wade & Anne Barker visited Wynbury this morning to give Vuvuzela some TLC (carrots/ various other treats) and managed to watch Blue Shark on the gallop.
Just checked the BHA racing admin website for any updates from Uttoxeter for Friday. This is one of the really helpful features of the site - from the 5day entry stage you can check the going daily from all the tracks.
"GOOD to FIRM - GOOD in places
(GoingStick: 6. 8 on Friday at 16:00)
Hurdles moved out 4 metres to fresh ground.
Chase Course - All fences fully open on inside so course at its shortest. Divided bends.
5mm of rain last week. A dry and breezy weekend but rain (2-5mm) forecast this evening; thereafter mainly dry with the odd shower possible. The worst of the weather/rain staying west of the Welsh Mountains. "
We had owners of Rocking & Reelin in yesterday to see him work up the gallops under Robbie Mccarth. Unfortunately I was already on the road to Aintree so couldn't meet with them but i'm sure Ferdy did a good job at making coffees in my absence! I would urge anyone who hasn't yet visited the yard to try and come up at some point, although Vuvuzela is rested up there is still plenty to see and Blue Shark normally puts on a good show for spectators. . .
Fairly busy week again for me, Haydock on Wednesday, then I'm down to Newmarket Thursday and then back up the road to head to Uttoxeter Friday. The weekend follows suit with runners at Wetherby and Huntingdon on Saturday and Carlisle Sunday. Our Cheltenham festival winner "Divers" will return to action at Carlisle on Sunday in preparation for The Paddy Power at Cheltenham in November.
Blue Shark has been entered for Uttoxeter on Friday in the 2m4f 0-120 handicap chase. I will update everyone tomorrow with further plans to run him.
The horses worked well this morning, Rocking & Reelin went up the gallop twice and the reports have been good. He is still quite green and although we'd like to run him asap Ferdy wants to give him as much experience as we can at home first, before he makes his debut on the track.
Blue Shark has come out of the race safe and sound and resumed full cantering work today, he will have come on a lot from the run and he has been fairly treated by the handicapper (being dropped 8lb in todays ratings. )
The rain continues to pour at Wynbury today and it looks as though the ground will get fairly soft at Carlisle for Thursday. This will really suit "Going Wrong" who is entered in the novice chase.
Ferdy's new horsebox is arriving today ( I will post pictures when it arrives later!) and after passing my HGV test last month, i'm really looking forward to driving it! People tell me its the worst thing that I could have done, apparantly i've had it "easy" the last couple of years going everywhere on transport wagons!? I think it will be of huge benefit to the yard, its going to make it so easy to box up 6 horses and take them for racecourse gallops when it suits Ferdy, When (and if) (and hopefully it wont!!) the weather sets in, we'll also be able to take more horses to the beach as a group, we have found this a brilliant training aid in the past and it seems to really improve the horses in terms of fitness and attitude.
Busy enough week with several runners Thursday, then I'm off to Aintree Saturday and Sunday (hopefully in the big horsebox, providing we get the VOSA required documents in time!).
The early part of the season seems to have really kicked in to gear, we had 5 runners at Kelso on Saturday and it looks like we'll have nearly that number at Carlisle on Thursday!
We had a great team out on Saturday, including BET365 Gold Cup winner "Hennessy" and grade 1 winner "Blue Shark". Blue Shark has had two years off the track and its going to take him a run or two to get back to form. "Jaws" finished a very pleasing 4th and Royal Mile seemed to take to the fences like a duck to water.
I have contacted all sharers in Vuvuzela regarding a slight injury he picked up schooling last week, the vet saw him again this morning and has suggested he has some time in his stable to mend. Although its only minor and he's nearly sound now Ferdy doesn't want to risk him damaging himself by over compensating using his other legs. The vet has put it down to pulled hamstrings and hes sore through his rump muscles, hes OK in himself though and is as cheeky as ever. . .
To get some days out Ferdy has given us Blue Shark on a free lease, he will run in the partnership name and colours for the next month or so untill Vuvuzela is back on track. He won a grade one hurdle as a young horse and is an exciting prospect to go over fences, he had a run in Kelso on Saturday and its likely he will got to Carlisle on the 30th in another novice chase.
Keith Mercer and Graham Lee are in tomorrow to work the horses again, its likely that one of them will ride Rocking & Reelin so I will let you know how he gets on.
Sorry for the delay in updating, seem to have been flat out for the last couple of days. This weeks racing has been successful with Glasson Lad finishing second in Huntingdon on Tuesday and Le Roi Rouge finishing 3rd in Wetherby yesterday in fairly testing conditions.
Lap of Honour also ran yesterday and finished a respectable 7th on ground which really doesn't suit him. Shortly after the race there was a stewards enquiry and the race was made VOID, due to the jockeys failing to pull up after the waving of a yellow flag. More can be read about this on the Racing Post website - A P McCoy, Brian Hughes, Denis O'Regan, Brian Toomey, Jonathon Bewley, Alexander Voy, Graham Lee, Paddy Brennan and Danny Cook will be out of action from October 26 to November 4 unless they can get the ban overturned.
Vuvuzela seems slightly better today and has been for a lead out in to the indoor school, we are having him checked over by the vet tomorrow morning during a routine visit to make sure he's ok. Rocking & Reelin' schooled over poles again yesterday and is taking everything in his stride, he has lost all his "baby" weight now and is shaping up into quite an athlete.
We've lots of entries for Kelso on Saturday, I'm gutted that we won't be taking Vuvuzela up this weekend as I was excited to see him run. However, we've a good team up there so there's plenty of action to look forward to. I'll keep updating when I can. . . . .
We ran two horses at Hexham on Saturday, Emperor Charlie made his debut over fences and seemed to get the hang of things in the later stages of the race. Badgers Retreat (the Badger) ran first time out in the bumper and finished 5th under Robbie McCarth which was also very pleasing (to be honest the fog was that thick it was impossible to see anything but I'm told he was 5th!)
Today we have entered Vuvuzela to run at Kelso in the 2m6f novice hurdle, we will have a look through the entries when they are published later - its highly likely he will run. . .
Very busy and exceptionally windy/wet day at the yard today, we have the Racing Post in this morning to do the annual stable tour, John Grossick is in taking photos for the calendar and the representative from GAIN Feeds is visiting the yard. Luckily I only rode out 1st lot, the weather is horrendous so i'm watching the next lots go out on the CCTV!
Off to Huntingdon tomorrow with Capricornus and Glasson Lad (both hurdles) it will be interesting to see how they have matured and developed over the summer.
The cold snap has hit North Yorkshire! This morning we schooled 50 horses over hurdles and fences, for the first time this year there was a real "bite" in the air. The horses seemed to have noticed this too, with the majority of them growing thick wooly coats overnight!!! A huge amount of clipping to be done this week - i've done 2/85 this evening (long way to go yet!)
In the main, schooling went well but it was obvious that a couple of the horses were upset by the weather which resulted in two of our jockeys hitting the deck, luckily both the horses and jockeys were unharmed. The events did however provide excellent opportunities for photos, but unfortunately the lads won't let me post them on here! Keith Mercer rode Vuvuzela over the hurdles and once again he was brilliant, he is more advanced than we thought and its likely he will go to Kelso for his 1st run on the 15th October (although this is subject to change).
Fairly quiet this week in terms of runners, but its likely we'll be at Carlisle Friday and Hexham on Saturday. Until then I will be continuing to hold tight while riding out, clipping horses and preparing for our Racing Post stable tour on Monday.
Yesterday was a busy day for the yard with approx 50 guests from DPRP/Lets live racing visiting the yard. Graham Lee was in to ride work and the eight horses (now belonging to "Lets Live Racing") were put through their paces by the jockeys. They all went really well and everyone is really looking forward to seeing them run in the near future. My highlight of the day had to be having my photo taken with Only The Best, my favorite Let's Live Horse - don't tell the others!
Vuvuzela and Rocking & Reelin were both schooled over hurdles again and are really pleasing Ferdy with their progress. Its likely Vuvuzela will run fairly soon (2-3 weeks) with Rocking & Reelin taking a little longer.
I'm just ready to set off to Kelso races with our two runners, Erin Dancer & Pillar of Hercules. They are both ridden by two of our conditionals, Robbie Mccarth & John Winston and will both compete against each other in the 1st race.
We have entries in Carlisle on Friday, so keep checking back for declarations.
The horses are really stepping up now in their work now and it won't be long before they all appear on the track. We have our first few runners entered up this week, but these are the horses that have been in training for some of the summer so are much more forward.
Entries for the week :
Hexham (Friday)- Le Vert Gallant
Kelso (Sunday )- Erin Dancer & Pillar of Hercules
The website is up and running! Although its very much a working progress at the moment, huge thanks to Stuart Forrest and his team at Contentys for all their creativity in producing this site.
Today turned out to be very mixed, this morning was fantastic. We managed to school in the region of 60 horses in Wynbury over fences, French hurdles and tyres. Mr & Mrs Weight visited the yard and watched Vuvuzela school over the French hurdles for the first time this season, his jumping was excellent (photos to follow tomorrow) and Ferdy was really pleased with his performance. Its likely we will work him on Friday up the all weather gallop, it will be interesting to see how much he has come on since his last session and it will give us some indication on when and where we plan to run him first.
We then set off to Sedgefield at 11. 30 with our two runners, Stand Clear & Big Burrows. Stand Clear ran an absolute blinder to finish 2nd (beaten only 2 1/2 lengths) ridden by Graham Lee.
Big Burrows was the pick of the paddock, it really seemed that he had his spark back today. It certainly looked that way as he was picking up so well turning for home. He made a bad mistake two out and fell, the vets tried everything they could but they were unable to save him. It was a very sad end to what could have potentially been a really successful day for the yard, although its a rare occurance it never gets any easier to deal with. My thoughts are tonight with the Morgan's.
I have a day in the yard tomorrow, so hope to get on a selection of the photos from today. I am still learning the ropes though so you'll have to bear with me for a couple of weeks!
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