JANUARY 2017

FINISH LINE Cheltenham & Three Counties Race Club magazine

A NEW YEAR, A NEW RACING BROADCASTER CONTENTS WELCOME

Editors introduction 3 Happy New Year! I was given privileged access to the work the racecourse doctors do in ensuring the welfare Richard Willoughby guest column 4-7 It seems everyone I know has gone on a of jockeys and the viewing public are provided diet, no wonder, after the feast of racing A day in the life of the 8-9 for with quiet efficiency. I’ve a report on these over the Christmas period. racecourse medical team experiences on pages 8 and 9, they really were Philip & Sarah Hobbs column 10-11 led the way in Ireland by gorging enjoyable and fascinating insights. himself on twenty two winners in four days John Hales column 12-14 Our columnists Jo Collinson, Philip and Sarah over the Festive period, while Richard Davis Award / 15 Hobbs, John Hales and Liam Treadwell all continued to scoop up all the big races in the enjoyed high profile successes in December Win a day at the races competition UK. produced a memorable King and recount these for us in their columns, Jo Collinson column 16-19 George victory, with jumping so exuberant it while Adam Hurley brings us his take on how took your breath away, while made Adam Hurley column 20-23 the Christmas racing has reshaped the betting a nonsense of top weight in the Welsh National Liam Treadwell column 24-25 markets as we turn our gaze to the Spring to follow up on his recent Hennessy success. Festivals. Club news & forthcoming events 25-26 Both finished their respective races as fresh as Membership renewal 27 paint and look set to meet one another for the Before we know it we will be making plans for Gold Cup in March. Trials Day at Cheltenham, but before we do we have a super evening to look forward to on New Year’s Day saw five female jockeys, Lizzie January 18 as Yogi Breisner will be our club night Kelly, Bridget Andrews, Lucy Alexander, Lucy special guest – do make it a date, it will be an Gardner and Megan Carberry all ride winners It was the happiest of New Year’s for Lizzie Kelly as she rode Coo Star Sivola informative and enjoyable evening. and Agrapart (pictured) to victory for Nick Williams and it was also our chance to take a first look at the coverage of ITV Racing, back on our screens I’ll leave you with a thought for the year ahead after a 32 year absence. from the author Benjamin Franklin; I’m delighted to advise that our guest columnist “Be always at war with your vices, at peace with this month is ITV’s Racing Editor, Richard your neighbours, and let each New Year find you Willoughby. Richard took a break from his busy a better man”. schedule to provide his reflections on pages 4 I’ll drink to that… to 7 of ITV’s first broadcast from Cheltenham on New Year’s Day. We wish Richard every success Enjoy the racing in his new role as racing needs ITV to be a Steve Ennis success to bring a wider audience towards the sport which we all adore. I was fortunate enough to enjoy plenty of racing over the New Year where I spent consecutive days with the teams of racecourse doctors at Taunton and Warwick respectively. On each day

2 3 RICHARD WILLOUGHBY GUEST COLUMN

The New Year saw the much to, in what is actually quite a short space of anticipated launch of ITV Racing time. after a 32 year absence. CTCRC are After being with Racing UK from the very grateful for the opportunity to get start in 2004 I joined ITV as Programme the perspective of ITV’s Racing Editor Editor in June. I loved my time at Racing UK Richard Willoughby on the channel’s and was very proud of what was achieved first day back on our screens. Here’s there, but I had never worked on terrestrial Richard’s reflections on a day that had coverage before, and the opportunity been eagerly anticipated by the world that ITV presented was one that I couldn’t Cheltenham were really supportive when allowing us a test event during the October Showcase meeting of racing; resist. While not known as a broadcaster Cheltenham Day One of , ITV Sport always had a fantastic pedigree covering big sporting January 1. The OB Trucks arrived and parked to broadcast the racing had been rigged I suppose it wasn’t until when my good events. Just take last year for example… The three days before, in good time to rig the and we were now in test mode. Everything friend Nick Luck signed off from Kempton Euro’s, The French racecourse with cameras, cables, sets etc. was on schedule, but it was inevitable by Park on 27 Open, England My colleague Amy Lewin, who is the Senior then that the forecast of rain for New Year’s December that Internationals, The Production Manager on Racing, took her Day looked pretty accurate. the nerves truly Surprisingly I slept fairly Tour De France to team down to oversee matters on the Friday. kicked in. After 32 Amy and I along with Senior Director Paul name but just a By then we knew the declared runners, years well, given a few nerves McNamara met with few events in 2016. so we were able to Racing had come your columnist Sophia identify the story to an end, and the Being our first Dale, Simon Claisse horses and put the Everything went to next broadcast of English horse racing on programme we were afforded some extra and David McKinnon final touches to our terrestrial television would be ITV. time in the build up to New Year’s Day. That plan and everyone from Cheltenham running order, which allowed us to create and produce some for a final meeting, It had been a long time coming. After being is the document that performed brilliantly creative films for the top of the programme just to make sure awarded the rights back in January of last everyone works to plus a feature (on Jonjo O’Neill) that we there were no last year, months and months of meticulous during the broadcast. played out during the broadcast. minute changes and planning were undertaken. Racecourse I, along with most of the presentation team, to make sure the course was happy with surveys, meetings with the various But there is only so much planning you arrived on site at the racecourse on Saturday our preparations. Cheltenham have been organisations, talent, the fixture list, technical can do in advance. The main preparation morning. By that time most of the kit used brilliant in helping us with our plans in the and logistics…there was so much to attend commenced during the days building up to

4 5 and O O Seven have Nico itching to return, their seasons could see them do well at the spring Festival’s. The Euro’s, The French Open, England Internationals and The Tour De France are just a few of the high profile events covered by ITV Sport

Despite the awful weather the whole team performed brilliantly past six months. We did a test event at the given a few nerves. Showcase Meeting that was so beneficial in On New Year’s Day everyone was on course trying things by 10am for final broadcast – as well as covering the racing, later this morning with Sophia and the team out before our checks. By then it was as much about showcasing and at Cheltenham looking ahead to Trials Day. first broadcast. establishing our team and the roles within. There is plenty to work on the rain had Richard Willoughby New Year’s Eve set in. We had After racing it was a wet journey home back Racing Editor ITV was a quiet and everyone is committed the option to to Kingston Upon Thames and then bed. Steve Ennis writes; Congratulations to affair! We had go undercover, The next day I reviewed the programme to improve and enhance Richard and his colleagues at ITV on a production but the whole and I was really pleased with how the their successful launch on New Year’s meeting team knew the programme went. There is plenty to work our coverage Day. We wish them every success with with the importance of on and everyone is committed to improve their four year contract in bringing a presentation being outside for and enhance our coverage. new audience of viewers to the world team at 6pm – this allowed everyone to our first ever broadcast and when given the There is no time to rest however. We are of racing. have a good run through the running order option there was never any doubt. deep in the throws of pulling everything and talk about the actual races in a bit more At precisely 1pm we came on air and to together for Sandown this Saturday, and detail. All the team, on both sides of the be honest the next two and a half hours looking further ahead I have conference call camera, met for a meal in Cheltenham town, whizzed by. Everything went to plan and then saw the New Year in before heading everyone performed brilliantly, despite the off to bed. Surprisingly I slept fairly well, awful conditions. Day One was a unique

6 7 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE RACECOURSE MEDICAL TEAM

Steve Ennis writes; CTCRC members may following day. well remember my report last year on At Taunton, the three doctors split their function a day spent with the veterinary team Day 1 Taunton Left: Medical team of Dr. John Day 2 Warwick Right: Medical team of Dr.Luis Mendia, with one doctor in a support vehicle following at Cheltenham detailing the vital, yet Heathcock, Dr. Tim Tilsley, SRN Sarah Godfrey and Dr. Physio Kate Krzywiec, Dr. Phil Pritchard, Dr. Chris the racing, one in a watch tower affording Phil Pritchard Reynolds and Dr. John Heathcock. understated role they carry out at every a view of the whole racecourse and one on race meeting in the UK. The same can standby in the medical room. Dr. Phil advised be said of the medical teams who are in that the medical team set themselves the task for the pain to subside, but there was no need “Which of the two sports is more dangerous?” attendance at all race meetings. It was of being able to attend to any incident within for any specific medical attention. was my enquiry, “without question, being a once again my privilege to spend two a minute of a jockey taking a fall. Equally, while jockey is much more dangerous” came the reply. days in the company of such teams at If there are any injuries the doctors file a there were falls during the day, the medics like to Taunton and Warwick respectively in the report of treatment given, this in itself causes At Warwick there was a bumper New Years’ Eve give the jockeys time to get to their feet in their final couple of days of 2016. Here’s what I a potential tension between the two parties. crowd drawn in by an attractive card. However, own time. In the fourth race Tom Cannon was learned behind the scenes; On the one hand the doctors want to impress none had a better view of the racing than fired out of the saddle by Followmybuttons, his on the jockeys that they’re on their side, but for the medical team in the support vehicles, as I took up the invitation to spend a day with the mount then added insult to injury by treading the jockey’s the last person they want to see “Digger” our driver tore around the track like a medical teams from the Jockey’s doctor, Philip on the fallen jockey. Our support vehicle is the doctor. Dr. Phil is proud of the fact that rally driver in pursuit of the field of runners. From Pritchard. Our first days racing took place at immediately came upsides to attend to Tom, he each race meeting now has an on course sports a racing perspective it was a real treat to see the Taunton where they had the largest crowd I’d got to his feet, he hobbled about gingerly for physio which he lobbied the BHA to introduce. racing from such a position as you get an up seen in all my visits to this track. The tiny medical a minute or two and eventually gave a thumbs Over the two days jockeys came and went in close view of any race unfolding. room is situated adjacent to the weighing room up suggesting he was going to be OK….. I’d search of treatment to alleviate aches and pains, Over the two days the doctors treated only but also doubles as a medical room for the have cried like a baby, Tom simply jumped in a we chatted to Jamie Moore who had taken a a minor burns injury to a member of the general public. There were three doctors on support car to head back to the weighing room heavy fall on Sire De Grugy earlier in the week hospitality staff at Taunton and a patching up of duty, a registered nurse and a sports physio. If a to get ready for his next ride. Dr. Phil was spot on at Kempton. Three front teeth had been badly scratches and bruises for a lady who had fainted crowd should exceed 5,000 then four doctors with his assessment, he’d seen that the fall was broken, cuts and scrapes were dotted around at the same venue. Fortunately both days racing are required as was the case at Warwick the just a knock that simply needed a minute or two his eye and cheek like some post fight heavy passed broadly incident free for the Jockey’s weight boxer, but Jamie was sanguine about the which is just as everyone likes it. Nonetheless, whole affair advising the dentist had patched like the veterinary teams on duty at every him up nicely before and was more than racecourse, the racing public owe a debt of capable of doing it again. gratitude to the medical support teams whose Of the doctors on duty, Dr. Phil and Dr. John quiet professionalism ensures the best available Heathcock work a number of tracks in the south care is on hand for the brave jockeys who bring west, while others like Dr. Tim Tilsley simply us the thrill of watching do their local track and enjoy their alternative around the UK. role from doing general practice on a day to Steve Ennis day basis. Dr. John Heathcock’s insight was quite illuminating as he works closely with the amateur boxing association in the South West.

Michael Heard on Prince Mahler (8) leads the horses onto the track in race four while Kerrow stretches away to win race six in the sun at Taunton 9 PHILIP & SARAH HOBBS COLUMN

December was a very pleasing month as it started with a wonderful treble at Chepstow with Lamb Or Cod, Atirelarigo Village Vic is an and Sykes and then Defi Du Seuil Donald Sommersvill takes over in the saddle from on board Captain Chris, on a day out hunting over the Christmas period winning again at Cheltenham, before amazing horse, he ran scooting up in a Grade one, three year a blinder in the Bet old hurdle race at Chepstow, which now Victor Gold Cup double at Newbury with Three Faces West out. In 2011 Captain Chris delighted us by makes him favourite for The Triumph over fences and then Sneaky Feeling winning winning the Irish Independent at Hurdle at . his first hurdle race so easily, he looks like Cheltenham, beating Finian’s Rainbow. Six He was such a special horse and only a being a very good horse for the future. years later Captain Chris now enjoys days out That day at Chepstow was full of mixed seven year old, a real gentleman who l so with the Devon & Somerset Staghounds with emotions as we were thrilled with Defi, loved riding every day. He will be missed by The Festive period provides some of our huntsman Donald Sommersvill. but half an hour later l had to make a very everyone in our yard. retired horses the chance to enjoy a day harsh and devastating decision, to put After a hectic Christmas period Everyday these horses are fed the best Onenightinvienna down after he had sliced the good ol’ English weather feed, exercised and pampered to a very through his tendon in The Welsh Grand traditionally ensures we have a high standard by caring staff who are with National. quieter January. This is fine for us them every day and his lass that day was as it gives us a chance to regroup Hannah Halstead who also was very upset. and get serious for the spring Unfortunately this is the worst side of the job campaign starting with The but only a few pay the ultimate price. Cheltenham Festival then Aintree The work in the yard is a 365 day operation, and Punchestown, where all guns left is a photo of the Hobbs family exercising will be blazing! the runners for the Bank Holidays, 8.00am A Happy New Year to all CTCRC Christmas morning! members. Katherine Hobbs riding Lisheen Prince, Philip Sarah & on Onefitzall, Sarah on Onenightinvienna and Diana Hobbs riding Lapalala. On a brighter note, we had an exciting Work riders, Katherine, Philip, Sarah and Diana Three Faces West with Jason McGuire, Richard Johnson, Tim Hobbs head out for first lot on Christmas Day Dennis and myself

10 11 Column header picture courtesy of John Grossick. JOHN HALES COLUMN

It is always very exciting to be a of January before you see him again on the National Hunt owner over December race track. and the New Year. You find that you delighted us with his second A win, a displaced intestine, great veterinary care and It was then off to Cheltenham to see the have many entries for the same horse chase win at Ascot in December Aux Ptits Soins is back on the road to Cheltenham horse owned by the Gi Gi syndicate - Brio and with Christmas approaching it is Conte. I was very pleased with the way he almost impossible to finalise plans. travelled and jumped but coming up the hill December started with mixed fortunes when the pressure is on he failed to stay on. chasing when he is six. He may only the parade ring for the fifth race and a very with Aux Ptits Soins going to Kelso. Sean This was disappointing at the time because have two more races this season which we nice grey horse took my eye but having said Bowen gave him a great ride, there was stamina is usually a feature of a son of Dom will use for him to gain experience. that I do tend to look at greys. I watched the race and checked the name of the horse considerable improvement with his jumping Alco. However the next day we received Politologue was superb giving an excellent was Politologue by Polyglot who had bred which enabled him to win the novice chase. a report that he had sore shins. I am now jumping display an Arc De Triomphe It took the team ten hoping this explains and lead from start winner. He came hours to get back why he did not to finish with a round the last bend to Somerset and I see he is quoted for come up the hill. On very good Philip If we are lucky I am in fourth and the early the next day Friday December 16 Hobbs horse not the RSA at the festival convinced you will see combination of his Paul Nicholls sent a we went to Ascot far behind. It is speed and stamina text to say the horse but you will not see for what turned interesting how we a magnificent chaser saw him first past was fine. However out to be our most came to buy him. I the post. It was a shortly afterwards him in that race successful racing day went to Autueil to in two years’ time very impressive the horse started to this season. We saw meet David Powell a performance. show signs of Colic Captain Forez in the partner in Highflyer and team Ditcheat took the right decision novice hurdle and Politologue in the novice Bloodstock who was going to take me to On the way down to the centre of France I to send him to the Veterinary hospital in chase. The Captain, who is only a four year see the breeders in Central France and in asked David to see if he could be bought. Bristol for observation. He was diagnosed old, is a very big horse (currently 17.2 hands) particular to meet the Breeder of Neptune He said that the owner was not an easy with a displaced intestine. The prompt I thought he gave a superb performance Collonges to whom I gave a picture of the man to deal with and a lot depended on treatment saved him from surgery and in finishing second. We must take our time photo finish of the 2012 . the amount of alcohol he had consumed although he stayed for a week his condition with him and let him mature. If we are lucky While we were at Autueil I had no intention at the time they spoke. Apparently the first gradually improved. I am pleased to say I am convinced you will see a magnificent of buying a horse and waited for the racing time they spoke it appeared that much he made a full recovery and is now back in chaser in two years’ time. It is possible he to finish as David had owners competing wine had been consumed and although training. However it will be at least the end will stay hurdling next season and then go in the last race. I did look at the horses in David is totally fluent in French he could not

12 13 understand him and better to speak again including the Welsh National. We took a RICHARD DAVIS AWARD the following day. David rang him very early box and were able to invite a number of the following morning before alcoholic friends and we had a very enjoyable day. consumption took its toll. The rest is now I would like to congratulate the staff at For the Top Conditional Jockey riding at Latest placings (up to and including 3rd history and the deal was done. Chepstow for making us very welcome Cheltenham, Chepstow, Hereford, Ludlow, January 2017) Stratford, Towcester, Warwick and Worcester and providing an excellent lunch. The first 1st Ryan Hatch 197 pts With two wins from two races over fences during the period 2nd May 2016 – 29th April horse to Run was Ibis Du Rheau in a 2.7 2nd= David Noonan 157 pts he is proving to be an exciting prospect. I 2017 (Sponsored by the Cheltenham and Three miles handicap. Carrying top weight Ibis 2nd= Harry Cobden 157 pts see he is quoted for the RSA at the festival Counties Race Club) travelled and jumped very well to finish 4th Jamie Bargary 147 pts but you will not second. In the Scoring: a Winner 10 points, a Second 7 points, a 5th Harry Bannister 134 pts see him in that Third 4 points, a Fourth 2 points. 6th Jonathan Moore 101 pts Welsh National race which I 7th Stan Sheppard 100 pts we had consider is the Vicente is getting better all Unioniste and Richard Davis was a talented jump jockey toughest race Vicente. I was tragically killed in a fall over fences in 1996. at the festival. the time having won the disappointed This award is named in his memory. He will stay Scottish National and we with Unioniste over 2.4 or 2.5 who should miles and learn have high hopes for the have done do his trade and Grand National much better off he may not go a good weight. WIN A DAY AT THE to the festival. He was never If we keep our in the race and I believe finished last of the RACES COMPETITION feet on the ground and not get too excited finishers. Vicente is getting better all the by media reports I think you will see an time having won the Scottish National and outstanding chaser for next season. This month’s question for the chance to win Our congratulations, along with a voucher for we have high hopes for the Grand National. two entry tickets for any meeting of your choice, two entry tickets to Chepstow, have already It was very nice going back to Hereford He finished a creditable sixth so now we except feature racedays, at been sent to Sarah. after the reopening of the racecourse. I is given below. look forward to Aintree. The question for the January competition is: have never won a race at Hereford but this The year finished for us with a visit to a Each month the first correct entry drawn time we had Gibbs Bay entered after he On what date is Chepstow’s Winter Ladies very wet Cheltenham on New Year’s Day. from those received in time will be awarded a had won the Bumper at Ayr at the end of Day 2017? My wife and I were guests of the Chairman voucher which can be redeemed for entry ticket the previous season. We thought we had and we enjoyed a very nice lunch with badges direct with the racecourse office. Please post your entries to reach Tony Coleman every chance but my record at Hereford by Friday 6 January 2017 at: some very nice people. The racing was as The winner of the November competition was remains intact. This horse needs time as competitive as always and we can now Sarah Jones, who supplied the correct answer 14 Ridge Green, Shaw, West Swindon, SN5 5PU he is very big and only four years old. He start to dream of what may happen in that the total prize-money for the 2016 Welsh finished midway down the field with a very alternatively, e-mail him at [email protected] March. I would like to wish you all a very Grand National was £150,000. average jumping display. NB: Please remember to include your current happy and prosperous 2017. The winning entry for December’s competition Before going to Cheltenham on New Year’s membership number and postal address with John Hales will be given in the February issue. Day we had horses running for the first your entry. time at the Chepstow Christmas meeting,

14 15 JO COLLINSON COLUMN

This autumn, Killian Moore started here the yard and being a head lad on her weekend Kevin Brouder collects the “Best Behaved” award from Flo, while Jack Savage and Killian Moore demonstrated so the boss could hold his conditional working. Due to this, she has sacrificed taking the effects of moving off the soft drinks to good effect. license. He is 25, from Navan and has her horses racing, like More Of That and Beg the unfortunate nickname of Killer – To Differ. Both won a bottle of champagne though, there seems to be no murderous and they planned to save it for the oncoming The next day, again at Cheltenham, Eastlake going down by the gallon. There was a dance tendencies as he is a chirpy character, Christmas period. overcame his defibrillating heart to win the floor ready for later and a live band. same chase as in 2013. His groom Marius Barbu, always up for a laugh. Kevin Brouder collects the “Best Behaved” award On December 1, to boost the festive feeling, similar to John and Call To Order, only got from Flo, while Jack Savage and Killian Moore A few years ago, Killian originally came over to I brought in six boxes of mince pies to have Eastlake to do this season, but he had led him demonstrated the effects of moving off the soft work for Graham McPherson, and also spent during coffee break. All were wolfed down, as up to victory in the Topham Chase. time with Sophie Leech and has ridden out for were every tub and tin of chocolates sent in by drinks to good effect. The spirit in the yard was definitely much more Martin Keighley. He has also ridden winners for kind owners. I continued to take in the boxes of To follow on from last year, Flo organised the jovial and merry than the dismal, winnerless days Alan King and Rebecca mince pies, once a week, Jackdaws Castle Joke Awards, except they a few weeks earlier. We grooms were bouncing Curtis. Killian is a hard until Christmas. were much glossier this time. There were many worker; during evening and the two conditionals were chipper and I simply could not On December 9, Jack categories, and Flo had handed out voting stables, he and fellow cheery. and I travelled up to forms at the beginning of December. She had conditional Jack Savage believe Gromit had Doncaster. We stopped Christmas time sourced prizes, printed out certificates and took look after the satellite to the microphone like a pro to announce the for a pit-stop at Leicester December 23: It is a fact that Jonjo and Jacqui yard and the field horses. won on Boxing Day winners. Forest East services for a always throw the best Christmas party and this On Friday 25 November, Starbucks. It was another year was no exception. The evening followed A very surprised Bara won the Finest Filly and Killian rode his first perfect day up at ‘Donny’ the usual timetable of drinks up in the owner’s she deserved to as she looked stunning, like a winner for Jonjo O’Neill up at Doncaster on when Jack and Foundation Man continued suite before departure by coach to Wesley racy Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. Festive Affair. I had driven Festive up and we their successful collaboration to win well. It is House in Winchcombe. Both Jack and Killian The Best Horse and Groom Combination went had a fun day in the harsh winter sunshine. always blissful watching big Foundation Man’s initially swore to to Eastlake and The pair front ran and won really well for the mammoth stride gobble up the turf and him only have soft drinks Marius, who won owners, the Four The Fun Of It Partnership. In flying fences like they were mere twigs. Jack had but, within half an It is a fact that Jonjo and a microfiber duster the winner’s enclosure, even Festive Affair smiled a huge grin on his face and he appreciates any hour of being up in for grooming. The for the camera, very chuffed with himself. Killian win. That is the main difference of the younger the owner’s suite, Jacqui always throw the Best Horse and followed up on December 15 with another win jockeys to the champions – they are always they were on their Rider Combination on Ultimate Dream at Towcester. smiling as any winner is precious. first vodka and best Christmas party went to assistant Belatedly for November, the Spillers Feed- On the same day, at Cheltenham, groom John cokes! Wesley House trainer Guy Upton sponsored employee of the month went to Dina led up Call To Order – his first winner at was beautifully lit and Taquin du Seuil, Bara Ponická for her care of Bet Victor Gold Cup the racecourse. John only started looking after within with thousands of fairy lights and felt whilst Fall of the Year went to Keaton McMinn winner Taquin du Seuil. For December, Flo Willis ‘Macaulay’ this season but clearly loves the horse, very Christmassy. The plates of food that were for his spectacular schooling fall off Kovera, for won for stepping up her responsibilities within as his brushing brings the horse’s coat to a gleam. brought out were delicious and the alcohol was which he won a tube of super glue. Stud of the

16 17 out for first lot, up a ton of equipment, feed and hay, John Lovejoy and More Of That and Taquin du Seuil to blew a few travel over to Leopardstown racecourse in long, brittle Ireland. notes on his John Dina and Marius Barbu were proud award winners while Simon Rand was delighted On December 27, hunting horn: to collect his Werther’s Originals Day dawned cold and icy. Harrison was haunting and driving a two-box with Destiny’s Star and Year went to Jack, whilst his housemate Killian bloodcurdling Beg To Differ aboard and I was taking won Best Newcomer. “Sorry Aidan,” Killian said, in the starry darkness. All the horses pricked Forthefunofit in the trailer. I only very as he stepped up to Flo. Everyone chuckled, their ears, their heads held high over the stable occasionally drive the jeep and trailer, including Aidan Coleman, and Killian brandished doors. As for us lot, it did our hangovers and sore I lead in Festive Affair and a delighted Killian Moore at a chilly Doncaster so I am always a bit apprehensive. Going his prize of a Mr. Perfect mug like a gold cup. heads no favours. Plus, I blamed it for my first forwards is OK but I’m not really that Class Clown was awarded to new head lad John lot, Holywell, being extra fresh, waving his legs peppermints to carrots, and to ride he is pure skilled at reversing – or so I thought. I had Lovejoy, whose jokes leave everyone either about and squealing, whilst on a walk and trot. fun, always skipping about and loving life. In the only just got on the M5 motorway when I felt cringing or groaning, whilst Golden Boy went to paddock, he prances and dances a little, thus we John Dina, who proudly donned his inflatable Christmas Day fell on my Sunday working, so a loss of power and the engine light lit up on there was not much festive feeling. We did three were making up too much ground to the ones the dashboard. Three stops later on the hard golden crown. The Cutest Colt, unanimously in front. Away from the crowds to one side, I cut voted, was Jonjo O’Neill (Junior) and Best Turned hours for morning stables, with lots of horses shoulder and a panicky phone call each time, on the walkers, all the mucking out and a few Gromit across the grass to get in a gap opposite. I finally arrived at Chepstow with a very hot Out went to Mario Voivozeanu, who is always Gromit took one look at the bronze statue of dapper and smells of a spicy aftershave on Boxing Day runners were ridden out. Many vehicle. of those who were off went home to spend , shot sideways and ran backwards, and off the yard. The most ironic award was We had two also-rans but Beg To Differ ran an Christmas with snorting. He nearly got loose as the lead rein Kevin Brouder absolute blinder in the National, finishing fourth family, whilst a ran through my hand and I only kept hold of winning The under Killian. One day, in the next year or two, I lot of those who him by luck. Back walking with the other horses Best Behaved, Christmas Day fell on my hope he gets a chance to run over the Aintree worked simply round the edge, Gromit forgot to be scared and for Flo fences on soft ground and gives his groom Flo caught up on behaved himself the rest of the way round. emphasised Sunday working, so there a day to remember. I was worried about my sleep. I did go they were In the race, a handicap hurdle, Gromit started journey back but the jeep chugged steadily to a friend’s for joke awards. was not much festive feeling well and jumped fluently but, turning for home, homewards, and the engine light only came lunch and ate Best Behind dropping back. I stopped watching to walk on a mile from the yard. I berated the jeep and too much, but the Desk went back to the gate, thinking he had run all right. I kicked its tyres, feeling a humiliated, but very had to rush away for evening stables. to Deborah ‘Debs’ Duncan for her extra hard heard Dell’ Arca twice on the commentary, and relieved, driver. work in the office whilst a new secretary was I was excited to go to Kempton Park on Boxing then it said Doesyourdogbite had won! I was The next day, our two runners in the Lexus employed. Golden Oldie was won by our Day, having not been since leading up Imperial totally shocked and could not quite believe it, Chase ran really well: Taquin du Seuil finished unsung hero, head of maintenance Simon Commander in two King George’s. Yet, to be greeting my little, gutsy horse with a big heart. fifth and More Of That a neck behind in sixth. Rand, who left proudly with a mini trophy and honest, I did not have any expectations about Aidan was very complimentary, saying what a They did the yard proud and gave the girls a a packet of Werther’s Originals. Finally, for the Doesyourdogbite; thinking the ground was lovely attitude he has. I simply could not believe few brilliant days away, with lots of partying and second year running, to his continued confusion not soft enough and also that David pipe’s Gromit had won on Boxing Day, at Kempton of stories to tell. and our amusement, Harrison Day won The Dell’ Arca was running. In my head, I could not all the racecourses: it made my Christmas. I was Wooden Spoon prize, one of which he won compare Doesyourdogbite previous wins at that happy, I could have led up the winner of the Let’s hope 2017 continues as well as 2016 ended again even though he never cooks! Market Rasen and Hereford to anything like King George itself. Happy New Year! On Christmas Eve, moments before we pulled Kempton. Nicknamed Gromit, he is a very Meanwhile, back home, Flo and Bara had loaded friendly character who eats any titbit from Jo Collinson

18 19 ADAM HURLEY COLUMN

It’s hard to know where to start with all cross country king, Enda Bolger, and no doubt the gifts I enjoyed over the festive period. he’ll be lined up for the big one in March. No, I’m not referring to the key ring and Day two was a better one for our customers, chocolate orange I unwrapped, thanks with three winning favourites at short prices. though Mrs Hurley, it was the racing action Course form is a priceless commodity at Cheltenham and Defi Du Seuil and Wholestone have laid down two Two of these were popular in doubles, Defi markers each already this season that got me jingling all the way. Du Seuil at 4/6 and Wholestone at 13/8, Thistlecrack, Native River, Vroum Vroum Mag, understandably so as both had won at the Altior and , plus top stuff at Prestbury course this season already. Defi Du Seuil was at Ascot the following weekend. He seemed to my breath each time Thistlecrack approached Park either side of Christmas, us jumping fans quite impressive, and has since gone on to win win nicely, but we will never know as most of a fence, I and many others had doubted his clearly were on the ‘good list’ to be treated to the grade two juvenile hurdle at Chepstow. the race was masked by thick fog. That’s seven technique, and that moment four out when the this lot. He looks the one to beat currently for the in a row now since joining Harry Fry, incredible duel materialised was national hunt racing at , and is an industry best 6/1 with The International meeting seems a long time to think he’s gone up over 40lb in the ratings its finest. Ultimately the new kid on the block Ladbrokes. ago now after the onslaught of the Christmas during that period. You can back him at 5/2 just had too much firepower for , and fixtures, but there was some interesting action. The other winning favourite was The New One with Ladbrokes to claim the Thursday feature, comparisons with and Kauto Star Day one was certainly a day for us bookmakers, in the feature race, and he was well supported and once again that is the best price on the were entirely reasonable. Thistlecrack is 4/5 with with just the one winning favourite in Cantlow. too. That’s a given in my shops in Cheltenham, High Street. Ladbrokes for the Gold Cup, and right now you can only see one of the twenty two obstacles This one was very popular in the shops all as the top ones from the Twiston-Davies yard In last month’s edition I looked forward to the preventing him morning, and was backed from 15/8 into 13/8 always are, but he was clearly fancied by many. potential clash from claiming at the off. Easy to see why as he was trained by was the early market leader, of Cue Card the crown. but the two ‘flip-flopped’ as John McCririck used and Unowhatimeanharry…. to love to shout. The New One was sent off the in the King There is one in 13/8 choice of the punters, and rewarded the George, well incredible to think he’s gone his own stable faith with a pillar to post win. These new tactics Santa couldn’t though who seemed to do the trick, and although he’s since deliver on that up over 40lb in the ratings could yet make been beaten by Yanworth at Kempton, that’s no one, but we a race of it. Not disgrace. This one seems to have been around ended with Cue Card, who forever, but it’s easy to forget he’s only nine years an even tastier match up. Thistlecrack V Cue looks like ducking the rematch and going for old, and he could still have a say in either of the Card had echoes of Kauto Star V , for the , but Native River. He followed big championship hurdles at the Festival. You my money there’s an extra edge when the up his Hennessey Gold Cup victory with a can get 14/1 for the Champion and 16/1 for the protagonists are from the same stable. It didn’t dominant weight carrying display in the Welsh Stayers, both with Ladbrokes. disappoint either, it’s been a while since I felt the National, the length and three quarters winning On the subject of the Stayers Hurdle, way I did watching when Paddy Brennan and margin not doing justice to his superiority. I Mark Walsh looked for dangers that didn’t exist on Cue Card attempted to serve it up to Thistlecrack was actually lucky enough be present for the Cantlow in the Cross Country – he will be a key Unowhatimeanharry enhanced his claims for contender again in March the race when winning the down the back straight. I had been holding day, and rub shoulders with the connections of

20 21 Cossack. Can you envisage three horses passing Native River up the hill and denying at least the place money? Every year I forget how good the racing is at Leopardstown over the festive period, though these days with the quality of horses trained in Ireland that shouldn’t be a surprise. Min looks like making a top chaser and the expected rematch with Altior could The New One proved his class once again at Cheltenham during the be one of the races of the International meeting under substitute Richard Johnson Festival. They are 3/1 and 5/4 respectively. Douvan continued his winning streak at odds of It’s important for racing that ITV’s coverage is a success – I wish them all the luck in the world 1/8, I wonder when we’ll see odds against on this horse again? I doubt it will happen The Irish boys are struggling for a standout Gold pay to watch racing on satellite channels, and in 2017. Perhaps if he steps Cup contender though, Outlander winning the the early signs were good. I liked the banter up to three miles you might Lexus Chase rather muddied the waters there. between ex jocks Luke Harvey and AP, and I get a price, and I’d still love Good to see Don Poli run a better race though liked the insight they gave mid race during the to see that happen as I think and I still think he’s a potential Grand National commentaries, something I remember the likes he can go any trip. It looks winner, he’s 20/1 of John Francome like its two miles for this with Ladbrokes. doing for Channel season at least though, and Four years ago. I Finally we saw in he’s 1/3 for the Champion Can you envisage three hadn’t realised I’d the New Year with Chase in March. missed it until now, another bumper Great sportsmanship complemented a great King George victory for Thistlecrack horses passing Native and it will be small Vroum Vroum Mag got back crowd at a damp things such as this this one thanks to my new colleagues at Coral. in the winners enclosure, Prestbury Park. If River up the hill that could make the I’m led to believe the owners were on at fancy goodness knows where she goes next but I we’re honest the difference, good and prices for the Tizzard Christmas double, and don’t think she wants three miles again, she was most interesting bad. Either way, they have some tasty ante post vouchers too for running on empty at the end. I love this mare story of the day was not the action on the deserve a chance to settle in and I wish them the Gold Cup. In an average year Native River and would back her for any race at the Festival, course but who was covering it. This was of luck for the rest of 2017 and beyond. would look the ideal type for the Gold Cup test, but I think the Ryanair Chase could be the one course the first day of ITV having the rights to but there is nothing average about Thistlecrack. depending on how the other Mullins cards racing on terrestrial television, and I was amazed Happy New Year to all club members! He’s 8/1 currently with Ladbrokes, and that fall. The 7/1 with Ladbrokes makes no appeal how many of my customers were talking about Adam Hurley actually looks like cracking value each way with though with the uncertainty surrounding her it. It’s vital to betting shop punters the coverage the doubts surrounding Coneygree and Don future targets. is as good as it can be, as many can’t/won’t

22 23 LIAM TREADWELL COLUMN Left to right..I see the year out with Belami Des Pictons (yellow silks) winning at 16/1 while my mate Robbie Dunne lands a 50/1 winner (green silks) on New Years Day.

Which jockey saw out 2016 with a 16/1 Otago – you can put a line through that run, winner, then opened 2017 with a 6/1 instead I enjoyed a win on Two Smokin Barrels shared a devilish round trip of 666 miles with last few to get the job done very nicely. I think winner? for Michael Scudamore. He jumped like a buck, Harry Skelton all the way to Musselburgh. The he’s as good as we’ve seen since the Kauto / winged the last three and toughed it out all the trip proved successful as we both rode a winner, Denman days, his jumping was extraordinary at Correct, it was Liam Treadwell, writes Steve Ennis way to the line to win by a neck. I was really chuffed to get mine for Andrew Kempton. and there was a noticeable spring in the step of Brooks who is a great supporter of Venetia’s yard our resident jockey when I then took a crunching Overall the Christmas period has been great, as he has had terrible luck with his runners lately. I met up with Liam in the fall on Force Of Forces for I’ve even got my mate Robbie Dunne round for first week of the New Year. Venetia and ended up If I had to pick a Christmas highlight it would dinner tonight and he rode a 50/1 winner on He entered the being stood down for the have to be Thistlecrack’s win on Boxing Day. He New Years’ Day as well”. It’s been a great Christmas remainder of the day, so I entered the straight as if his tail was on fire and period for Liam as he straight as if his Liam Treadwell missed the ride on Arthur’s Scu was clever as he shortened him up over the explained; “two months Oak anyway, he came fifth ago it was tough going as tail was on fire as it happened. I’d had such a long spell on the side lines, I began My six rides on New Year’s to wonder if I’d ever come back. Now all of a Eve at Newbury was my busiest riding day in sudden I’m riding winners on Channel 4 and ages and I was pleased to bag a 16/1 winner CLUB NEWS even on the first broadcast of ITV! with Belami Des Pictons for Venetia. With the & FORTHCOMING EVENTS ground softening Venetia’s horses are beginning Liam continued, “I’ve had rides for ten different to really hit their stride and Venetia had five trainers in December and it’s been full throttle Sir AP McCoy, Noel Fehily, Joe Tizzard and winners in the last week, we’re looking forward CTCRC Cheltenham Festival all through the Bloodstock agent, Tom Malone. Entrance is free to cranking things Preview Night March 12 Christmas period. for members with your club badge. More news up in January. One The clubs annual preview night at The Centaur, The day after Boxing will follow in next months’ magazine. I’d recommend your , is another “A” list Day I had a tricky On New Year’s Day I was readers to keep an occasion as we have a top class panel including; call, whether to go up at 5.00am eye on is Lady Karina, to Ireland to ride she was placed in Otago Trail in the a novice hurdle at Paddy Power Chase Exeter in mid-December but has thrived since. at Leopardstown or to ride Arthur’s Oak and a She’s a mare from Lady Rebecca, and we all few other decent rides at Wetherby. I chose the know how good she was. latter option, which turned out to be the right one as the ground was too quick in Ireland for On New Year’s Day I was up at 5.00am and

24 25 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL CLUB NEWS Cheltenham and Three Counties Race Club & FORTHCOMING EVENTS Application Form 2017. Membership Renewal provide full details next month. In addition we’re It’s that time of year where members are invited delighted to advise that committee member …………….. New Application …………………. Renewal Application to renew their membership and even invite Russell Neale has accepted our invitation to Tick the box for how you would like to receive the Club magazine friends to join as well. Membership offers become the magazine editor. Russell will fantastic value at £20 per person, or £30 for two shadow Steve Ennis in his role for the next Printed people from the same household for 12 months. few months before taking on this position. We’re still keen to see more members join the The application form is on the opposite page, Online committee… interested? Just call Doug Miles or you can get an A4 size version by printing on 07515 703058 to learn more about what this one off the Clubs website at www.ctcrc.co.uk. involves. Please send all cheques to David Bishop, our Forename (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss)*…………………………………………Surname………………………………………………. membership secretary. Club Night January 18 Alex Steadman of Racing UK will be posing the Forename (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss)*…………………………………………Surname………………………………………………. Internet banking for membership questions to Yogi Breisner who will be our guest renewals speaker at our January club night. Yogi has been *Please delete as applicable. We’re pleased to advise that members wishing the UK’s eventing performance manager at the to renew their membership can do so via last two Olympic Games and is recognised as a Single membership £20, per extra member, per household add £10. internet banking. The details you will need are world leader in his field. The evening starts at Address BLOCK CAPITALS as follows; 7.30pm, please bring your membership cards. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Admission is £6 on the door to non members. Account Cheltenham and Three ………………………………………………………………………………………………...Postcode……………………………………… name: Counties Race Club Tel No…………………………….e-mail address...... Sort code 30-95-72 Account no.: 00179455 The Club magazine can be downloaded from our website www.ctcrc.co.uk each month from BIC: LOYDGB21108 September to May. IBAN: GB38 LOYD 3095 7200 1794 55 Monthly Charity Donation CTCRC Exclusive Box Facility New Years’ Day Meeting Cheltenham One of the main aims of the Club is to make donations to racing charities. Each month a donation of With driving rain, swirling winds and a severe nip £50 is made to one of the following charities in turn. If there are any other horse related charities in the air many club members were grateful for Alex Steadman will be our host when that you feel the Club should support please add their name here. the opportunity to take refuge at the Box facility Yogi Breisner tells us about his career on New Year’s Day, provided for by Cheltenham in the equestrian world. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Racecourse. Many thanks to Sophia Dale and Cheltenham for this kind gesture, it was much Club Night February 15 The Injured Jockeys Fund Racing Welfare Moorcroft Racing Welfare Centre appreciated by all. National Hunt breeding will be the evenings Greatwood Caring for retired racehorses Re training of Racehorses Riding for the Disabled focus of discussion with Nick Luck acting as The British Retraining Centre Brooke Hospital for Animals Committee vacancies Chair and Simon Sweeting our guest. The Our appeal for volunteers to join the committee evening starts at 7.30pm. Please make cheques (single membership £20, per extra member, per household add £10). Payable has proved very positive with four club to “Cheltenham and Three Counties Race Club” and return with this application form to:- members coming forward to join, we will Mr. David Bishop, 7 Great Rissington, Cheltenham, GL54 2LP.

26 27 Publication No. 310 - January 2017 President: Alastair Down Vice President: Edward Gillespie www.ctcrc.co.uk [email protected] Regular club meetings held at: The New Victory Club, Burlington House, Lypiatt Road, Cheltenham, GL50 2SY. 01242 690351

Club officers – Names & addresses: Doug Miles Steve Ennis Chairman Magazine Editor [email protected] 07767 228866 07515 703058 [email protected] [email protected] Peter Collier Vice Chairman Russell Neale [email protected] [email protected] 07802 228599 David Bishop Judith Woolliams Membership Secretary Secretary [email protected] 7, St Mary’s Road, Cirencester, Glos, GL7 1AW 01451 821216 [email protected] 01285 659023 Rosemarie Davies [email protected] Colin Nelson Treasurer Antonia Lord 87, Avenue, 01386 833385 Cheltenham, Glos, GL50 4ST [email protected] [email protected] Magazine designed by Ian Scovell 01242 578634

Sarah Matthews Stable visit organiser [email protected] 07729 847724

CTCRC & Social Media Don’t forget that you can keep in touch with club news and events via Facebook, Twitter and our new club website. The addresses are as follows; Website: www.ctcrc.co.uk Twitter: @CTCRaceClub