FINISH LINE Cheltenham & Three Counties Race Club Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016

FINISH LINE Cheltenham & Three Counties Race Club magazine

BACK TO THE FUTURE CONTENTS Editors introduction 3 NEW Phillip Hobbs column 4-5 NEW Tanya Stevenson column 6-8 Tipster Competition | Richard Davis award 9 Adam Hurley column 10-11 John Hales column 12-16 Win a day at the races competition 17 Liam Treadwell column 18-19 Jo Collinson column 20-23 Club news & forthcoming events 24-25 Cover picture: Coneygree is fit and well and hoping Tipster Competition entry form 26-27 to make his return in the IJF The Sporting Mind evening 28 Charlie Hall at Wetherby, ground permitting.

Read all about the dramatic summer Liam Treadwell has experienced in his fight to overcome severe concussion on pages 18 and 19

2 WELCOME What a tumultuous summer it has been, 1 2017. In Tanya’s opening column we get a The Rio Olympics, Brexit and a new Prime flavour of the impact Cheltenham has had on Minister were among the more prominent her racing back catalogue since the 1970’s as a headline makers in the news. For me fan, a bookie and a TV presenter – CTCRC are however, the news feature that piqued privileged to welcome both Philip and Tanya to my interest was the heartening bulletin our team. from Sara Bradstock who reported in late Our centre pages show a stunning array of August that Coneygree “dare I say it, feels trophies that make up the new trophy display at better than ever.” the home of John Hales. We welcome John back Sara continued, “Provided his training continues and learn of John’s plans for his team in the year in the same vein, he will be ready to run in time ahead. John advises that there remains a place in for the Bet365 Charlie Hall Steeplechase which is the trophy cabinet for at least one Cheltenham taking place on Saturday October 29.” Gold Cup! I for one will be praying Coneygree has an injury We also welcome back more of our favourite free campaign and I plan to make horse #29 the columnists from last season, Jo Collinson, Adam first member of my tipster competition team. I’m Hurley and Liam Treadwell. For Liam it’s been a sure Neil Jakes, our 2015-16 tipster competition very difficult summer as he has been side lined winner, and all of you reading this will have your with severe concussion for over four months. own ideas of the eight horses you think will have Liam shares with us some of the challenges he a great season. Do be sure to enter a team, the has faced and it reminds us again of the perilous list of 100 horses are featured on pages 26 and nature of being a jockey. Liam points to the 27. support he has received from the IJF as being hugely beneficial in supporting his recuperation. I’m thrilled This coincides with the Club receiving a to bring you thank you email from Lisa Hancock, the Chief two new Executive of the IJF who wrote to thank us for columnists this the £27,885 that has been donated by the Club season to our to the IJF over the last decade. club magazine. On pages As the autumn gathers I’m already day dreaming 4 and 5 we as I imagine Coneygree pouring it on and give a warm responding to the roars of the crowd as he welcome to reclaims his crown in March. Whatever twists Philip Hobbs and turns lay ahead, let’s savour every moment Good luck to Coneygree in the who enjoyed and cherish another vintage National Hunt season ahead great success season. last season Enjoy the racing when providing Champion jockey Richard Johnson with most of his winners. In addition Steve Ennis on pages 6 to 8 we welcome Channel 4 Racing’s Tanya Stevenson. For Tanya the season ahead will provide new experiences as the baton for terrestrial coverage moves to ITV on January

3 PHILLIP HOBBS COLUMN

CTCRC have been busy over the summer go away for a proper holiday, usually for about recruiting new members to our team five weeks and hopefully come back refreshed of regular columnists. After finishing and ready for a long cold winter ahead. We are last season in third place in the Trainers fortunate enough to retain our more senior Championship you can imagine our staff again. Johnson White, the Assistant, has delight to sign up Philip Hobbs for the been with us over 20 years now and deals with season ahead. Here Philip gives us a the staff on a daily basis and is joined by Liz flavour of the summer events at Sandhill Welsh, who won the overall Godolphin stable Racing Stables. staff award for us ten years ago and Carol Burnett with us for 18 years, they are our two This summer we have head girls who deal enjoyed a break from with any medications the everyday routine most of our horses and bandaging and of training, as most of we are joined by some our horses have been have been turned out fresh faces with great turned out on the on the farm for ten enthusiasm. farm for ten weeks by the sea and enjoying weeks by the sea and You have probably seen lots of sun on their our travelling head lad at backs. enjoying lots of sun the races Sean Mulcaire who has been with us Of the few horses we on their backs for 24 years now and left in for summer by hook or by crook racing, we were has always managed to get our horses safely delighted to have got off to a very good start to the races, with the right colour’s, paddock and had 21 winners so far. sheets, sponsorship logo’s, bridles and at the This means also that the majority of the staff can same time keeping the young staff in order, so

I’m fortunate to retain such great staff with the likes of Johnson White, Sean Mulcaire, Liz Welsh and Carol Burnett being among some of the most experienced members of the team.

4 Sandown proved a memorable day for Richard The country lanes around our yard make a perfect Johnson and we were thrilled it all played out in way of reintroducing horses after their summer break Grahame Whateley’s famous colours.

they understand what they must do when they rid of some of their excess fat. are plaiting and leading their horses up in the The horses are now steadily cantering up our paddock and of course, washing them off after gallops and will start to step up their work the race. during September. When we think they are We managed to find time to plan a party for ready they will do some more serious work and Richard Johnson in May, celebrating being will have plenty to run from October onwards. crowned Champion Jockey for the first time The Champion Jockey Richard Johnson will in twenty years of riding and he was joined continue to be our first Jockey and Tom O’Brien by six previous champion Jockeys for a very as second. Michael Nolan, a very talented Jockey memorable day at Sandhill. is based in the yard along with our conditional Richard’s big day at Sandown on the last day of Jockeys’ Conor Smith who claims 7lbs, Ciarán the season was very magical and will never be Gethings and Tom Cheeseman claim 5lbs. forgotten, you could not have written the script. We are fortunate to have two very experienced He won the big race of the day on Menorah in amateurs, Sean Houlihan and Nick Lawton and Grahame Whateley’s colour’s (who is our biggest our Lady rider Natalie Parker, who recently won supporter) and straight after the race he came a hurdle race at Newton Abbot riding Walter out through a long avenue of delighted fellow White. Jockeys and was presented with the Champion It is a very important part of the operation to Jockeys’ trophy by Tony McCoy, surrounded by have top class staff to educate the young horses all his family and three gorgeous young children. in their ground work, but also teaching them Now l had better get down to business and talk how to jump properly before they ever see a about this coming season. racetrack. Our 108 stables are filled with some lovely In your next edition l will be talking about our looking new additions and for four weeks they chances and hopes for the season, but please, have been trotting around our quiet country do be warned now, l am a very moderate tipster! lanes which helps to harden their legs and get Philip Hobbs

5 TANYA STEVENSON COLUMN

Our second new signing to our writing course will be my last under my current guise as team is Channel 4 Racing’s betting the betting correspondent for Channel 4 – oh correspondent Tanya Stevenson. Tanya how I’ve craved these last 20 years a return to has long been a supporter of our club standing up in the betting ring, sadly as the and a frequent guest at preview/club years fly past the reality is its’ not viable. nights. Here Tanya opens with a nostalgic My Cheltenham connection began as a recollection of how Cheltenham has been boisterous youngster tearing around what is a focal point for much of her racing life now the Best Mate enclosure until my mid- over the past forty years. teens. Then I was given the task of learning the Cheltenham racecourse has been part of many art of bookmaking, clerking behind the pitch different incarnations of my life since the 70’s. It’s and eventually standing up when turning 18. amazing how sporting venues have had such There were many other jobs too, including an influence upon my character, attitude and working for SIS and sending the prices from perspective on life. Both the racecourse and racecourses including Cheltenham to the myself have taken on various facades during betting shops in the early to mid-90’s. Then that time, with one thing in common, at the from 1997 onwards I have worked for Channel 4 heart is the importance of what unravels on the Racing, in my most recognisable role, firstly as a hallowed turf. runner, then from 2001 in front of camera. To the discerning, National Hunt racing Having first been seen at Haydock at the end continues in the shadows during the summer, of March 2001, my debut at Cheltenham was in without really striking the consciousness of November that same year, the personnel with those other than the real die-hards. During York’s pitches from those three days to now have Ebor meeting a Cheltenham racecourse email changed so much, especially as at that time landed in my inbox, casting a wry smile across Betfair was still in its infancy. my face, not long to tweed, chords, wellies, the Each moment no perennial true equine matter what role heroes - the heart has been cherished, and soul of our sport. In the 80’s there was a though forever my Shantou Village’s favourite memories chasing debut at constant conveyor belt are those that Fontwell stirred the of punters eager to part involved bookmaking, odds compilers into with standing on action and we were with their money the hallowed turf given our first Festival interviewing Simon mover as quotes Claisse a very, very close second. Reading you arose for the RSA Chase! may scoff or laugh, but pause, think how many From October to December this year visits to the people actually get to walk the course or stand

6 The betting ring at Cheltenham has changed beyond Norton’s Coin 100/1 success in 1989 left me reeling recognition in the past 20 years as we took a few £20 each way bets by the last fence/hurdle on the morning of of the horses going round the back of the Best racing and indeed the Cheltenham Festival? I Mate enclosure 40 years ago, around the time can look back and say not only have I done it at of Midnight Court? While I was pedantically Cheltenham but I also realised a dream when worrying about neatness of my writing, punters interviewing Andrew Tulloch on Grand National eager to get on, would push and shove, jogging morning, the last three years. I ought not harp the pen into action. It was always better to be on too much about my love of Aintree in a busy than standing around getting cold. Cheltenham magazine! Umbrellas have always been the bane of my Memories are wonderful, nostalgic recollections life, either they blew inside out or would drip before heading to various Cheltenham meetings from the inner on the clerking book, have you over the years have included reminiscing over ever tried writing on wet paper? My tolerance the necessary journeys to and from Essex pre to most things including all sorts of weather M25 in order to replenish the funds during bleak has been borne out of working outside all year Festival days. Though communication was kept round. to a minimum, hats flying in the air was never a Knitted colours, questionable riding styles, good sign for us. In those days I can’t remember racing on all grounds from hard to deeper than heavy, plus true legendary equine heroes, I’ve been lucky to bear witness to them all. Monksfield, Sea Pigeon and Night Nurse are amongst my favourites plus the lesser known Rustle and Dusty Miller. In the 80’s there was a constant conveyor belt of punters eager to part with their money, queuing at every pitch, £5, £10, I’ve been privileged to be able to interview Simon Claisse £20 bets just flowed mixed in with those and Andrew Tulloch on the mornings of the respective of £100 here and there. Festivals’ at Cheltenham and Aintree Getting the figures out (the liabilities) for the 1989 Gold Cup was and still is now one of ever seeing much of the action as my head was my great achievements, though the payout down for the most part calculating the liabilities queue was infinite. The one that hurts the most and there were no such things as big screens. was losing on Norton’s Coin at 100-1, a few I may be wrong but there is a hazy recollection £20 each-way bets soon emptied the coffers.

7 The memories of gambles won and lost flood back when I see the Gold Cup winning silks on display in the Hall of Fame

Remember there were no exchanges in those surprise that in 1988 I was back to cheer Charter days and guess what everyone had to bet ¼ Party home. It was hard to balance form and odds on, 16-21 runner handicaps. academic study. With bills needing to be paid, schooling was sacrificed for a share in the Bookmakers plus a good proportion of their business. Why am I not doing it now? Well the staff had amazing mathematical brains, working turnover started to drop even before the advent out the percentages was second nature. All that of the exchanges and although the pitches at skill giving you an instinctive feel for a race. Plus Aintree and the greyhound tracks were viable there were considerable disparities in prices right through to 2001, it was my other roles that allowing the punter to seek the value. In the encroached on the family business and as soon present the ring is too sterile, influenced solely as I appeared with more frequency in vision, my by the exchanges as all the bastions of the father kindly slowly brought the business to a betting ring are long gone. close. Missing big meetings was a rarity, evidence of a When walking through the Hall Of Fame misspent youth, one that I did bypass and I think entrance my attention is grabbed by the silks of it was down to either bad behaviour or a last the Gold Cup winners hanging from the ceiling, ditch attempt to force feed an academic future a quiet few moments has me remembering was 1987. An effort was made to run a big race not so much how they won, but what sort alongside my studies with the thought process of journey home it was and how we ate that being that if I did well University would beckon, evening. Pitching our opinion and in some cases sadly I had other ideas. Anyway a radio was our money on an eventuality is something we taken into class and strategically placed under all have in common and there’s nothing better my massive pencil case, in the hope I could than to get it right at Cheltenham. covertly listen to Peter Bromley’s commentary, all went horribly wrong when adjusting the To that end I welcome the new season, another volume to check why it hadn’t gone off to time. and new and exciting chapter will start for A) I was caught and B) sadly the delay due to me, let’s hope it is eventful and as successful snow caused me to miss the race altogether. It financially and enjoyable as all the previous was very hard to get a signal and hear over the ones. rabble on a bus full of school children. Tanya Stevenson In hindsight I would have been better off attending the meeting, so it came as no

8 TIPSTER COMPETITION FINAL PRIZE LIST

To finalise the Tipster Competition for 2015-2016, 10= STEVE TAYLOR A 575 £10 please see below the full list of prize-winners and 10= STEVE TAYLOR D 575 £10 the amounts paid. Payments were issued during TOP MONTHLY PRIZE July. ALAN WELLSTEED £40 FINAL TOTALS CYNTHIA BUSSEY £20 TONY COLEMAN £10 1 NEIL JAKES B 645 £250 DAVID HART £10 2 ALAN WELLSTEED E 630 £100 DIANNE WESTON £20 3 CYNTHIA BUSSEY D 615 £60 KATHY WILCOX £10 4 TONY COLEMAN A 610 £50 PAUL SMITH £10 5 DAVID HART B 605 £40 BRIAN LACEY £10 6 DIANNE WESTON B 600 £30 TERRY POULSON £10 7 DIANNE WESTON E 599 £25 8 ALAN WELLSTEED A 595 £20 9 ALAN WELLSTEED H 589 £15

RICHARD DAVIS AWARD

For the Top Conditional Jockey riding at Cheltenham, Chepstow, Hereford, Ludlow, Stratford, Towcester, Warwick and Worcester during the period 2nd May 2016 – 29th April 2017 (Sponsored by the Cheltenham and Three Counties Race Club) Scoring: a Winner 10 points, a Second 7 points, a Third 4 points, a Fourth 2 points. Latest placings (up to and including 5th September 2016) 1st David Noonan 121 pts 2nd Harry Bannister 113 pts 3rd Harry Cobden 84 pts 4th= Jamie Bargary 57 pts 4th= Tom Bellamy 57 pts 6th Charlie Hammond 56 pts Richard Davis was a talented jump jockey tragically killed in a fall over fences in 1996. This award is named in his memory.

9 ADAM HURLEY COLUMN

CTCRC welcome back Adam Hurley for the when we’ll get odds against on that one again, 2016-17 season. Over to you Adam to share so hopefully we can repeat the trick. with us your highlights during the summer So what’s been happening in my Cheltenham period…. Town centre betting shops during the summer Well that didn’t take long did it? August 25 and months? Well I’m sure you’ll be pleased to hear we’ve got our first Ante Post market-mover for that we’ve continued to take a pounding from the Cheltenham Festival! Shantou Village was our Horse Racing customers. 8 out of 30 winning the horse concerned, the bookies taking the favourites at Royal Ascot, 14 out of 35 at Glorious barbers shears to his odds for the RSA after he Goodwood combined to make a painful few made a successful chasing debut at Fontwell. weeks at Ladbrokes. I’ve mentioned before that we almost expect to make a loss on Cheltenham I have to admit I’m still in summer holiday mode, fixtures throughout the winter, the Cheltenham literally in fact as I got the request from editor racegoer/punter is one of the most informed Steve for this first piece while sunning myself in in my opinion. Therefore we usually rely on the France. So I didn’t get too excited about Shantou summer months to claw back some of those Village, but no doubt we’ll all get aboard the losses, but it’s looking as if 2016 is something of Festival express soon enough. a write off. Actually I’m not Matters weren’t too distant from helped by a decent the Festival express the Cheltenham racegoer/ gamble being after all, perhaps punter is one of the most landed in the you could say I’m Galway Hurdle by on the platform informed in my opinion Clondaw Warrior. waiting to depart. Mullins and Walsh I just flicked were at it again, and the bookies once again through the last edition of this publication to paid the price. 9/2 was the SP but this one was remind myself where we left off, and reading available at around twice that in the morning, and about the likes of Douvan, Vroum Vroum Mag most of my customers looked no further when and Cue Card at Punchestown certainly whet they saw the confidence behind this talented the appetite ahead of the up-coming season. I dual purpose horse. I was pleased to see the nine intend to write plenty more about these stars year old finally land a big pot over hurdles, not as and many more in an Ante Post feature next pleased as Ruby though it seemed, but then who month. I highlighted a couple of juicy prices this isn’t relieved to keep the missus happy? (His wife time last year, Douvan 5/2 for the Arkle, not sure Gillian is part of the winning syndicate of owners).

10 Leicester and Portugal saved “I think Gillian will be taking me out for dinner tonight” suggested the bookies bacon by doing the Ruby Walsh as his wife (4th right) celebrated winning Irelands richest improbable as Premier League and jumps race, The Galway Hurdle, with fellow syndicate members Euro 2016 winners

One ray of sunshine though has been pain au chocolat was just too much in the end the footy. Leicester City were somewhat though! unexpected….a 5000/1 under-statement, One final thought on the subject of France…I when lifting the Premier League, and wonder if Willie Mullins French eyes and ears, the results generally last season were a Pierre Boulard, has sourced next year’s Supreme bookmakers dream. I lost count of the amount Novice Hurdle favourite yet? This time last year of times Chelsea ruined our customer’s accas, none of us had heard of Min, yet he was already well actually I kept count, and it was twelve. sitting at the head of the market for the Festival To put that into opener. I briefly context, Leicester entertained trying only lost on three to source myself a occasions. This it’s nice to dream, and isn’t future champion football madness whilst that side of continued into the that what this time of year the Channel, but Euros tournament, is all about for us National I quickly realised as Portugal were I didn’t know my totally overlooked Hunt enthusiasts? Auteuil’s from my when ‘boring’ Compiegne’s! Still, their way to it’s nice to dream, victory. I still haven’t recovered from them and isn’t that what this time of year is all about somehow getting the better of France in the for us National Hunt enthusiasts? final (a large investment ante post), and I was tempted to cancel the previously mentioned Adam Hurley summer holiday because of it. The lure of the

11 Column header picture courtesy of John Grossick. JOHN HALES COLUMN

Our clubs great supporter John Hales Perpetual Trophy. I did the same when we won returns for the 2016-17 season. John has other races with Perpetual trophies like the Arkle, been busy over the summer with the Azertioup, and the Scottish Grand National with development of a fabulous trophy room Vicente. Both Foggy and I now have replicas of in his Shropshire home. See the stunning this lovely trophy. We really appreciate it when collection of trophies John’s ownership you can keep the trophy which was the case career has assembled on the centre pages with the Queen Mother Champion Chase, The overleaf. King George V1 Chase and The Grand National. So as a big thank you to our horses the display is The Summer saw the horses out at grass and now finished and the TV in the display shows all the completion of extensions to my home. I of their major wins. always wanted to remind myself and my family of the pleasure and good fortune we have I would like to thank Weatherbys for producing enjoyed being involved in the sport of National for me a framed display of all of the Grand Hunt racing and pay tribute to the horses that National winners going back to the first race in have brought us so many enjoyable moments. 1839 and our Scottish Grand National trophy To do this I decided to build a display cabinet now shows on the band around the base all of featuring paintings and photos of our most the winners going back to 1900. successful horses and their trophies. I am very For the next season we will see Al Ferof go into pleased that when we won our first major retirement after his last planned race which trophy, One Man winning the Hennessey Gold is the Peterborough chase at Huntingdon Cup at Newbury, I had a duplicate made of the which he won last season. Dan Skelton and I have agreed that win lose or draw Alfie will

Al Ferof’s greatest hour came with victory off top weight to win the Paddy Power in 2012

12 Dan Skelton quite possibly has the UK’s best training facilities and looks set for another outstanding season retire. He has been a superb horse to own. His The plan for Vicente following his win in the outstanding achievements include winning the Scottish Grand National will be the Grand Supreme Novices at the Festival with Sprinter National at Aintree which is a target that Foggy Sacre and Cue Card trailing him home. He also and myself will be looking forward to. I hope to came third in the King George for the last three have Unioniste in the race as he was the most years which showed his class and consistency. successful finisher of Paul Nicholls’ horses last I always believed his greatest performance was year finishing a very creditable tenth. winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup off top As for my family we have an exciting young four weight at Cheltenham. He was magic that day. year old from France called Captain Forez by After the Peterborough Chase we will find a Network the same sire as Sprinter Sacre. He was nice home for him to very impressive enjoy his retirement. in his only run at He is a very active Auteuil finishing horse with a kind The plan for Vicente a close second. temperament and he following his win in the He is a very big will make someone horse standing a very nice Hack Scottish Grand National over seventeen and may do some hands so we will dressage. will be the Grand take plenty of time The Gi Gi partnership, National at Aintree with him and he David Stevenson, may only run three Margaret Moody and times this season. myself are looking He has gone to forward to a successful season with Vivaldi Dan Skelton’s to replace the retiring Al Ferof. Collonges who won at Ayr last time out. Gibbs All of my horses are now back in training with Bay is another who won his only race in the Ayr the exception of Aux Ptits Soins and Politilogue bumper and Brio Conte is looking to be a fine who are doing pre training with my daughter prospect. The partnership have sold Valco Du Lisa. Continues on page 16... Touzaine to go Point to Pointing in Ireland.

13 1 2 14 9 11 3 6 7 8 12 10 4 5

Left to right trophies: 1. Perpetual Trophy – Reproduction of Arkle Trophy winner Azertiuop 2003 2. Glass decanter – Azertyuiop winner the Arkle 2003 3. Bottom shelf BHB Jump Racing Awards, Champion two mile Chaser winner Azertyuiop 2004 4. Silver trophy, Queen Mother Championship Chase Trophy winner Azertyuiop 2004 5. Top Shelf – Glass Vase, Martin Pipe, winner Ibis Du Rheu 2016 6. Second shelf – Irish Independent Arkle third Cheltenham Noland 2008 7. Game Spirit Chase Newbury winner Noland 2011 8. Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices Cheltenham winner Noland 2006 9. Fox Trophy – Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup winner Neptune Collonges 2008 10. Below Large Silver Trophy – Perpetual Trophy Scottish Grand National winner Vicente 2016 11. Gold trophy Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup winner Neptune Collonges 2007 12. Centre white horse – statue of Neptune Collonges 13. Centre right – The Grand National Trophy winner Neptune Collonges April 2012 14. Framed list behind the horse statues - details of every winning Grand National horse going back to Lottery in 1839. 15. The two matching Gold trophies are the King George V1 won both times by One Man in the same calendar year. Sandown January 6 1996, due to rescheduling, followed by December 26 1996 Kempton where he set a record time of 5 minutes 45.3 seconds. 16. Below the first of the King George trophies is a Reproduction saddle trophy awarded by the Racehorse Owners Association to One Man for Racehorse of the Year in 1998.

14 19 14 15 20 24

18 13 16 17 22 23 26 21 25

17. Silver trophy - The Queen Mother Champion Chase Trophy winner One Man 1998 18. The adjacent glass vase is the Murphys’ Special Achievement Award, winner One Man 1998. 19. Perpetual Trophy - Reproduction of the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, winner One Man 1994 20. The White statue above is of One Man commissioned by Royal Doulton following his two King George VI wins 21. Next shelf – The Perpetual Peterborough Chase Trophy, winner Al Ferof December 2015 22. Independent Newspaper Novices Steeplechase The Open Cheltenham winner Al Ferof November 2011 23. The Gold Plate is the Paddy Power Gold Cup won by Al Ferof November 2012 24. Far right – Glass Bowl was a keepsake for the winning owner of the Peterborough Chase. Al Ferof winner December 2015 25. Large Silver Plate Stan James Supreme Novices Hurdle winner Al Ferof March 2011 26. Last but not least…The Silver Coral Cup, won by Aux Ptits Soins March 2015 NB: A Perpetual Trophy is a reproduction of the original trophy John advises that a space can readily be created for the Cheltenham Gold Cup!

Photo courtesy of: Andrew Mark Homer Proprietor/Photographer Studio72 Photography Tel: 01952 282306 Mob: 07813 027591

15 of the Festival winners with the exception of One Man who was trained by the late Gordon Richards. You may have seen advertisement’s in the Racing Post where my friend and co- owner of Vicente has put together a very Coillte Lass is one of the “Magnificent Seven” available to interesting syndicate operation called Ditcheat own through the Ditcheat Thoroughbreds Team Thoroughbreds. Foggy is a very enthusiastic supporter of National Hunt racing. This was They will be back at Paul Nicholls before the end Foggy’s original idea and Paul Nicholls has of August. These two horses and Ibis Du Rheu, helped in giving advice on the selection of the winner of the Martin Pipe race at the Festival will horses. Paul has committed to training all of the all go Novice Chasing. I am pretty confident that Syndicate’s horses. Foggy has got some very all three will do well over Fences. On Saturday good ideas to include twice monthly updates 13 August we went to Dan Skelton’s open day. which will include a mix of video footage, This was very sometimes from impressive the jockeys with many I can see Dan and Harry both helmet camera, new horses regular blogs, being paraded. achieving further success in stable visits, New facilities owners and include the the coming season trainers badges new Grooms and an insight quarters which into the joys of has seventeen rooms all with en suites and racehorse ownership. more stabling. In such a short space of time Dan has now probably the best facilities in the They have selected the first seven horses country for training National Hunt horses and referred to as “The Magnificent Seven”. This is a following his 100 winners last season I can see great opportunity for National Hunt enthusiasts Dan and Harry both achieving further success to be involved in race horse ownership. in the coming season. The number of people For further information contact Ditcheat attending on the day was a new record and an Thoroughbreds, PO Box 5247, Shepton Mallet excellent lunch was provided. BA 4 9DJ, Tel No 01749 862020, email enquiries@ Ditcheat.com In mid-August we had a visit from Paul Nicholls and Ian and Wendy Fogg with Foggy coming to I wish you all a very enjoyable season. collect his Scottish Grand National Trophy. I was John Hales pleased to show Paul our seven Festival winners featured in the display as Paul had trained all

16 WIN A DAY AT THE RACES COMPETITION

This month’s question for the chance to win two entry tickets to Chepstow, have already two entry tickets for any meeting of your choice, been sent to Pat. except feature racedays, at Chepstow racecourse This question for the September is given below. competition is: Each month the first correct entry drawn On what dates is Chepstow Racecourse from those received in time will be awarded a holding its Jumps Festival? voucher which can be redeemed for entry ticket badges direct with the racecourse office. Please post your entries to reach Tony Coleman by Friday 30 September 2016 at: 14 Ridge Green, The winner of the May competition was Pat Shaw, West Swindon, SN5 5PU alternatively, Redmond, who supplied the correct answer e-mail him at [email protected] that entrance to Chepstow Racecourse is free if under 18 years old. NB: Please remember to include your current membership number and postal address with Our congratulations, along with a voucher for your entry.

17 LIAM TREADWELL COLUMN

Steve “Hi Liam, fancy a catch up for the Symptoms involved constant nausea, balance magazine?” issues, memory loss and acute fatigue. Liam Liam “Sure, shall we meet at the was having difficulty getting a nights’ sleep and Wheatpieces Pub?” suffered a lack of appetite which resulted in Steve “Actually fancy going for a Kayak, it’s weight loss – the kind no jockey wants as it was a cracking evening?” muscle wastage. Liam “Sounds great what time?” The four month period on the side lines has Steve Ennis writes…and so it was that one of the been mentally challenging as well and the IJF more unusual settings for a magazine interview put Liam in touch with a sports psychologist came on the beautiful waters of the River Avon Dr Abbe Brady who Liam was seeing on a in early September in a couple of Kayaks…. weekly basis earlier in the summer. Liam picks destination, the first pub upstream. up the story, “Abbe got me writing down all the positives I’d enjoyed in racing and life in general As the conditions were so benign I had so that I’d think more positively about these ample opportunity to hear all about Liam’s things than dwelling on summer which has the negatives that the been overshadowed injury had brought to the throughout with him I feel genuinely that fore. She had worked with being side lined with many other sports people injury as a result of the I’ve grown as a person who had suffered similar concussion he first during this period injuries, George North, suffered after a heavy the Welsh rugby star was fall at Bangor in March. off for six months with You’ll recall due to the initial injury Liam missed recurring concussion and it’s fairly common to the Grand National ride on Katenko but did find sports people side lined for this period with make it back for the Cheltenham meeting in this type of injury. April. Sadly, Liam endured two more falls in I also saw Emma Phillips who is a jockey’s physio May which brought about acute symptoms I’ve known from seeing on race days. Emma of concussion and some very difficult times works at Oaksey House and I’ve been a regular as he fought to overcome the debilitating visitor there over the summer. The support I’ve effects of the injury. The medics said latterly received has been fantastic. In the early stages that the concussion would likely have occurred Emma’s approach was largely conversational even without a fall, such was the severity of and then developed where she did a variety the original concussion which had left Liam of tests which were designed to evaluate my unconscious for three minutes. balancing competencies which have been all

18 The River Avon provided a stunning setting on tranquil waters. over the place at times. feel. If all goes well I plan to go to France to ride a few juveniles for Venetia that she has her eye I wouldn’t wish the experience I’ve had on on for some of her yards owners. anyone, but as a result of the support I’ve received I feel genuinely that I’ve grown as a I was up at Venetia’s today and I’m amazed at person during this period. how many new horses have come into the yard, I’ll give you a full update on these next month I’m now infinitely better than I was and feel when I get to grips with all their names”. like I’m getting back towards being 100% fit mentally and physically. My appetite has To look at Liam you wouldn’t have known he’d returned and I’ve been doing a lot of gym work had such a tough time and it was with some and swimming, this kayaking is just what I need! relief to learn that he had been able to get away for a few weeks to spend time in the sun in I’ve still got a critical few weeks ahead of me Barbados watching the Tri-Nations Cricket series where I’m hoping to get signed off by the which was a great relaxing break. doctor. If this happens I still need to find out if the injury has left its’ mark on me mentally as I The late summer sun was sinking over the need to be able to prove to myself that I’ve still horizon at a speed quicker than our paddling got the drive, I’ve no idea at this stage how I will so we returned to our start point and finished the evening in our regular local pub. From here I learned about a further holiday with jockey room colleagues and the pleasure Liam had taken from watching the Olympics….being on the side lines meant late night viewing was possible so most of the top action from Rio was watched as it happened. Footnote: We couldn’t go kayaking without a friendly kayak sprint race. It’s safe enough to report that you know who won…and he beat me easily! Let’s hope that same competitive edge comes coursing back when the doctors give Liam the all clear, all at CTCRC wish Liam Steve Smith lifts the Tri-Nations Trophy well in his return to the saddle. after the Aussies defeated West Indies in The Kayak Roll Of Honour: Liam Treadwell Barbados first place, The rest, nowhere.

19 JO COLLINSON COLUMN

Summer Fun summer Flat campaign first. Being a pretty boy and despite his rodeo antics, On May 17 I led up my first winner of the Gromit won the best-turned-out, as did Michelle new season at Huntingdon when The Marsh and Pongo Twistleton, who finished a Tailgater won over hurdles. He is a lovely brilliant second. young horse with a zigzag blaze streaking down his face, and the most babyish eyes On leaving the racecourse to ‘80s classics being ever. belted out, and passing the ancient monument of Stonehenge in the golden sunset, I realised Richard Johnson was pleased with him, and I that I enjoyed going Flat racing, especially to was pleased, as always, that he had been on tracks that were not dual purpose and ones I board. At home, the youngster is looked after had never visited before. by amateur jockey Charlie Davies, who I shared the best-turned-out prize with. Owned by the June 25. On a warm, sunny day, I went to the Rooney’s, I think he has a brilliant name, one of mid-summer festival at Chester. Initially I thought my all-time favourites. the sat-nav had got me lost when it took me into the middle of a housing estate, apartments May 28 Doesyourdogbite (Gromit) ran at towering high above like brick cliffs. Round the Salisbury – a new track for me. These smaller back and on the other side of the track, the Flat tracks are so smart and make a big effort for stables were the nicest I had ever been to. A their spectators. There was a red double decker viaduct separated the course and stable yard bus as a bar; bunting, a decent crowd and a – occasionally there were the rattling rumbles radio DJ live after the last. of trains going over. The stable yard portrayed Gromit was naughty to lead up, planting himself real ingenuity: the spaces beneath the viaduct’s on the spot then throwing massive bucks in arches had been used to house the canteen and the pre-parade and then in the paddock. He facilities, security office, storage units, stables did not run so well, was up there until fading and wash boxes. Potted shrubs were dotted rapidly. Immediately, I silently questioned the about. jockey’s ride and did not think it had been very On walking over to declare, I also delighted good. I frowned when he said to the Boss, “Send in the stands too – situated up high, the new him back over hurdles.” Gromit has yet to run shouldering the old like firm friends. The dressy over hurdles, so the jockey had obviously not crowds, as if it were Royal Ascot, bustled round read the form! Indeed, Gromit was bought to horse trailer bars, two in patriotic Union Jacks go jumping, but trainer and owners wanted a and two in Raspberry Crabbies magenta. Also,

20 80’s beats were booming as we left Salisbury and then enjoyed a spectactular sunset over Stonehenge on the journey home…..Happy Days another double decker bus bar, gallons of head travelling lad to Donald McCain, on the Pimms and seemingly endless champagne bars. other side of the pre-parade and clearly on an afternoon off. Gromit was perfectly well behaved in the paddock and did not mind the addition of fluffy “Have you been on the Pimms?” I asked. cheek pieces – he pranced but no bucking He shook his head, “Non, champagne.” bronco antics. Jockey Jack Garrity (son of former jump jockey Russ Garrity) gave him a great ride “Going to Uttoxeter tomorrow?” and I was so chuffed when they finished second, “No, definitely not,” Ludo answered with a grin. beaten less than three lengths. I charged up to them as if they had won! Lucky him! It was pleasant to see Ludo relaxing and socialising, instead of working his way Even though only one member of the syndicate through a lorry-load of runners. went, it far from mattered as Berys Connop and acting “trainer” Edward Gillespie cheered us in. The week starting June 27 was the inaugural We posed for photographs as if we were in first Stable Staff Week. There was a hamper draw at place. Worcester to all who signed in to the stables. The Racing Post printed lovely interviews with Later on, Kelvingrove (nicknamed Kevin) finished winning lads and articles, trying hard to increase sixth but then got demoted to last when Jack knowledge about the job we do. Marius Barbu failed to weight in. Kevin had run well; his first and I missed out on the bacon rolls dished out run on the Flat since being trained by Sir Henry on the yard when we went racing! Cecil. As the initial one, the idea was pioneering. I loved going to another Flat meeting at a The most limiting aspect was holding it in new course, as if on an exploration. There June, when the jump yards are quiet and a lot were flowerbeds, bright colours, sunshine, of people are on holiday. I think a time when hats and heels and gleaming horses. Amongst both types of racing have an overlap, perhaps this, a familiar voice called out to me: a suited October, would have been more beneficial. Yet, and forever immaculate Ludo Gaubusseau,

21 Chester racecourse stables are situated perfectly under a railway viaduct and the horse wash boxes are ingeniously designed.

I am just being picky and it is an incentive that Called after the Disney princess, Princess is will hopefully expand. ironically named: she is more of a trollop than a princess! There is nothing ladylike about her, July 10. I drove three runners to Southwell, nor regal about her small stature or flashy about accompanied by two younger lads. It was new her plain, bay colour. Yet, she shows a huge recruit Connor Walsh’s third time racing. From amount of grim determination and gritty lack of Wexford in Ireland, he only started riding in abandon. I had ridden her out for the previous January, when attending the National Racing three weeks. Tacking her up is a losing battle to College in Doncaster. His riding is improving keep her back from the open stable door and, daily and he is now very accomplished astride once aboard, walking is more of a hurtle and the schoolmasters, such as Dreamsoftheatre, her scratchy canter, however crab-like, powers Mission Complete, Lost Legend and Presence her up to the top of the long gallop. Connor Felt. He will soon be upped to the next level and brushed her over, dodging well aimed teeth. begin riding the more difficult horses. Michael We saddled her in stables as last time out (when Clarke, from Downpatrick in Northern Ireland, she won at Uttoxeter) she had reportedly kicked had ridden a few times in point-to-points back a lot. To saddle, she was a gem, only narrowly home and plans to get his amateur licence over missing Connor with her teeth twice; ditto to do here. He started working here in January and her tongue tie. As I had been riding Princess, I Southwell was his first time racing with us. led her up but I said to the boys to play trainer in Connor led up ‘his’ Mountain Tunes, who ran the paddock and leg up Aidan Coleman. very disappointingly, and had a crash course I was expecting the worse; to be dragged in dope box procedure, as well as getting around the paddock but Princess walked calmly, MT scoped by the vet as I was away from the only flailing her head in my direction a few stables , saddling Set In My Ways at the time. times. She bounced and danced about when Connor shows much potential and portrays a Aidan mounted, excited to be going out to race. lot of smart thinking for someone with such Princess battled on to win – Aidan was delighted relative inexperience. Meanwhile, Set In My Ways about her toughness, especially as the track finished second, not beaten far. It was a shame did not entirely suit her. Apart from a vicious as he has yet to win and getting his head in front head butt in the winner’s enclosure, she stood might boost his confidence. between me on one side, and Connor and So, our fate was all in Princess Tiana’s court. Michael on the other for a photograph. I actually

22 Doesyourdogbite (Gromit) won best turned out then delighted Jack Garrity and owner Berys Connop on finishing second

felt satisfied with her win; aside of complaining One of ‘my’ horses came in from the fields, his about riding her daily, she had done me proud. holidays over for the summer. Visandi (Andy) looked more like a shaggy native pony, with tail July 25. I was straight back from a fortnight’s touching the ground, mane so long it curled holiday and off to Royal Windsor with the baby and forelock covering his eyes. Yet, this could Casaclare. It was the first time I had led up a not disguise that he had grown taller (not just two-year-old sprinter and I had an enjoyable fatter) and stronger. Andy has yet to run since evening out. It was Windsor’s Irish Night, so jolly coming over from France and was turned out in tunes swept through the dazzling crowds, with March. This time of year holds all our hopes and their colourful outfits and champagne bubbles. optimism for the season ahead; dreams are only Local Chastleton Flat trainer, John Gallagher beginning and not yet dashed. spotted me and did a double take. He laughed and said, “What are you doing here?” I replied To Be Continued... that I was back in my rightful place the next day Jo Collinson with seven at Worcester! Compared to any race over jumps, the sprint race was over in a flash. Casaclare had just got into it as the race finished and did not want to be pulled up; he will be a lovely one for the future and hopefully can be successful on the Flat before he goes hurdling next year. He won best turned out, which I shared with his regular groom Bara Ponická.

23 with the introduction of a car share scheme. If this is of interest please call our membership CLUB NEWS secretary, David Bishop, on 01451 821216 or email & FORTHCOMING EVENTS David at [email protected] Stable & Stud visits Edward Gillespie Appointed Vice President Please contact Sarah Matthews, our stable visit Club Chairman, Doug Miles is proud to announce organiser, if you would like to visit any of the to members that Edward Gillespie has accepted forthcoming club trips. You can email Sarah at our invitation to become the Clubs Vice President [email protected] or call her on 07729 with immediate effect. Edward has long been 847724. a tremendous supporter of the Club and we all September 17. Jamie Snowden yard visit, Folly welcome Edward into his new role. House, Upper Lambourn Road, Lambourn, September 21 CTCRC Club Night Hungerford. RG17 8QG Our September guests include Richard Davis September 24 A visit to Elkington Stud near Conditional jockey award winner Ciarán Banbury is planned. Can all who plan to attend Gethings, jockey, Stan Sheppard and new local advise Sarah Matthews by September 17. trainer Alan Phillips. Roger Hart will be posing October 15. Paul Nicholls yard trip to see the questions, please bring membership cards second lot on the gallops and a tour of the to secure free entry or £6 for guests on the door. yard. There are a maximum of 20 places. This This season we’re bringing forward the start will likely go to a ballot. Please contact Sarah time of meetings to 7.45pm, please arrive for Matthews to express your interest by October 7.30pm if you can. 1st . Manor Farm Stables, Ditcheat, Somerset. October 19 National Hunt season preview BA4 6RD. If interested in attending please advise night if you would like coffee beforehand and lunch Finishing touches are being put towards a stellar afterwards in the Manor House Inn. panel of guests from the world of National Hunt Alfred (Fred) Morgan racing to take us through their horses to watch I’m sorry to report that former club member as the season develops Fred Morgan passed away on July 17 2016. Car Share to Wednesday Club Nights Many club members will remember Fred, who, If any member is interested in attending our with his wife Joyce, was a regular attendee at Wednesday club nights but have difficulty our Club meetings as well as an enthusiastic arranging transport, we may be able to support supporter of the Race Club, which he joined in 2000. In recent years Fred’s health deterred him from participating in any of our activities and, reluctantly he relinquished his membership. Fred’s funeral took place on 9 August 2016, at Coney Hill Crematorium where Tony and Lesley Coleman attended as representatives of the Race Club. Ciarán Gethings, Stan Sheppard and Alan Phillips are All at CTCRC extend our heartfelt our September guests. condolences to Joyce and her family on

24 Fred’s passing. “Thank you to all CTCRC members for inviting us to join you all at Worcester last Friday evening Injured Jockeys Fund Supporters Club and for us to present the Richard Davis trophy Our friends at the IJF have asked that we advise on behalf of the club to Ciarán Gethings, we had all club members of the opportunity to join not met him before but he seemed a nice lad the IJF Supporters Club. Membership provides and was very grateful to receive the trophy. unique benefits of private stable and stud visits, IJF organised racedays and online shopping We thank you again to those members (Terry discounts while supporting all aspects of the Poulson take a bow) who are responsible for the work of the Injured Jockeys Fund. Club members point scoring, not an easy task. can also attend social functions with jockeys and It was a lovely evening and a pleasure to meet racing personalities at Oaksey House and Jack up with you all again. With very best wishes to Berry House. Membership is £40 per year and you all for the rest of the year and indeed until you can apply online at shop.ijf.org.uk/ we meet up again next May, from us all, John, The Sporting Mind Ann, Andrew and Stephen Davis.” Please see the back cover of this months’ Club Trips magazine which features an advert for an Our Vice Chairman Peter Collier is planning evening of entertainment to support the IJF a wide variety of trips for the autumn that in London on September 29. Claire Balding include the Arc De Triomphe on October 2 will host the evening and interview Victoria and Pardubice on October 9. There are several Pendleton and Sir AP McCoy. If you want tickets trips to Ireland being planned. If any member you can call the IJF direct on 01638 662246 or is interested in joining Peter he can usually get email [email protected] favourable rates and tickets for you. Interested? IJF Thank You Just call Peter on 07802 228599. As you all know CTCRC are a registered charity CTCRC and Social Media and undertake a range of fund raising events Don’t forget that you can keep in touch with each year. Earlier in the summer our Chairman, Club news and events via Facebook, Twitter and Doug Miles, received an email from Lisa our Club website. The addresses are as follows; Hancock, the Chief Executive of the IJF, thanking the club for having raised £27,885 between Website: www.ctcrc.co.uk 2003-15 for the charity. Lisa said, “this is a huge Twitter: @CTCRaceClub figure and it makes a massive difference to what Facebook: Cheltenham & Three Counties we can deliver to our beneficiaries”. Race Club One such beneficiary is our own Liam Treadwell Your club needs you who has received much needed support from The committee are keen to encourage any the IJF over the summer as he has had a period member to become more involved in the club on the side lines through injury. in the season ahead. After a four year stint in the role, our club Chairman Doug Miles is looking Richard Davis Award to pass the baton, while Steve Ennis has also Club Secretary Judith Wooliam’s received a given notice that he will be stepping down as wonderful letter of thanks from the family of magazine editor in May 2017 after four years in Richard Davis following the prize giving event his role. If any member is interested in either of at Worcester Racecourse on May 27. It read as these roles please contact Doug Miles on 07515 follows: 703058.

25 CHELTENHAM AND THREE COUNTIES RACE CLUB NATIONAL HUNT TIPSTERS COMPETITION 2016 - 2017 Sponsored by

Perpetual trophy sponsored by Nigel Dimmer

st th 1 Prize £250 and other prizes to 6 place

Prizes for most points scored in the month and for overall leader at the end of each month.

Points will be awarded, based on the number of runners, as follows:-

No. of Runners Winner 2nd 3rd 4th Four or less 15 - - - 5-7 15 10 - - 8-15 20 10 5 - 16+ 20 10 5 2 (applies to handicaps only)

ALL points will be doubled for the Cheltenham (March) and Aintree (April) & Punchestown Festivals. The competition will run from Friday 11th November 2016 until th the last day of the Punchestown Festival, Saturday 29 April 2017.

1 ACAPELLA BOURGOIS (FR) 26 CHAMPERS ON ICE (IRE) 51 LADY OF LAMANVER 76 SLOWMOTION (FR) 2 AGRAPART (FR) 27 CHARBEL (IRE) 52 L'AMI SARGE 77 SMAD PLACE (FR) 3 ALTIOR (IRE) 28 COLE HARDEN (IRE) 53 LE PREZIEN 78 SPRINTER SACRE (FR) 4 ANNIE POWER (IRE) 29 CONEYGREE 54 LIMINI 79 SUPERB STORY (IRE) 5 APPLE'S JADE (FR) 30 CONEY ISLAND (IRE) 55 MANY CLOUDS (IRE) 80 SUTTON PLACE (IRE) 6 ARCTIC FIRE (GER) 31 COPPER KAY 56 MIN (FR) 81 TEA FOR TWO 7 AR MAD (FR) 32 CUE CARD (GB) 57 MINELLA ROCCO (IRE) 82 THE NEW ONE (IRE) 8 AUGUSTA KATE 33 DISKO (FR) 58 MOON RACER (IRE) 83 THE NIPPER (IRE) 9 AUX PTITS SOINS (FR) 34 DJAKADAM (FR) 59 MORE OF THAT (IRE) 84 THISTLECRACK 10 BACARDYS (FR) 35 DODGING BULLETS 60 MY TENT OR YOURS (IRE) 85 THOMAS HOBSON 11 BALLYANDY 36 DON COSSACK (GER) 61 NATIVE RIVER (IRE) 86 THREE MUSKETEERS (IRE) 12 BALLYOPTIC (IRE) 37 DON POLl (IRE) 62 NICHOLS CANYON 87 TOP GAMBLE (IRE) 13 BARTERS HILL (IRE) 38 DOUVAN (FR) 63 NORTH HILL HARVEY 88 UN DE SCEAUX (FR) 14 BATTLEFORD 39 FAGAN 64 OK CORRAL (IRE) 89 UNOWHATIMEANHARRY 15 BELLO CONTI (FR) 40 FAUGHEEN (IRE) 65 OLD GUARD 90 UP FOR REVIEW (IRE) 16 BELLSHILL (IRE) 41 GOD'S OWN 66 O O SEVEN (IRE) 91 VANITEUX (FR) 17 BITOFAPUZZLE 42 IDENTITY THIEF 67 POTTERS LEGEND 92 VAUTOUR (FR) 18 BLACK HERCULES (IRE) 43 ITS AFREEBEE 68 PRINCE OF SCARS (IRE) 93 VROUM VROUM MAG (FR) 19 BLAKLION 44 IVANOVICH GORBATOV 69 PTIT ZIG (FR) 94 WELSH SHADOW (IRE) 20 BLOODY MARY (FR) 45 JENKINS 70 SAPHIR DU RHEU (FR) 95 WESTEND STORY (IRE) 21 BLOW BY BLOW (IRE) 46 JER'S GIRL 71 SEEYOUATMIDNIGHT 96 WHITEOUT (GER) 22 BRAIN POWER (IRE) 47 JEZKI (IRE) 72 SHANESHILL (IRE) 97 WITHOUT LIMITES (FR) 23 BRIERY QUEEN 48 KAYF GRACE 73 SHANTOU VILLAGE (IRE) 98 YANWORTH 24 BRISTOL DE MAI (FR) 49 KILLULTAGH VIC (IRE) 74 SILVINIACO CONTI (FR) 99 YORKHILL (IRE) 25 BUVEUR D'AIR (FR) 50 KYLEMORE LOUGH 75 SIZING JOHN 100 ZABANA (IRE)

To enter: Please select 8 horses from the list above. Entry is £2.50 a line; Enter as many lines as you wish.

ENTRIES ARE WELCOMED FROM NON-MEMBERS.

Send entries to Colin Nelson, 87 Roman Hackle Ave, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 4ST, or to any Committee member

Any e-mail entries…….. please address to [email protected]

PLEASE MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO CHELTENHAM AND THREE COUNTIES RACE CLUB

st th Entries and fees must be received prior to the 1 race on Friday 11 November 2016

CHELTENHAM AND THREE COUNTIES RACE CLUB NATIONAL HUNT TIPSTERS COMPETITION 2016-2017