April Signs Off in Style

​April brought a busy and enjoyable end to the season, with plenty of action on the track and encouraging signs for what lies ahead.

A King of Magic signed off his campaign in fine style when sauntering home in the 2m4f Handicap Hurdle at Perth, barely coming off the bridle and always looking in complete control. He’s been a model of progression throughout the season but it was the step up in trip that really unlocked another gear. He travelled sweetly, settled better than ever, and when asked, quickened away with plenty left in the tank. In truth, he made it look easier than it probably was, and the manner of the victory suggests there’s still a fair bit under the bonnet. The handicapper hasn’t missed him, though, and he’s been left on a mark of 129, which looks on the stiff side given he’s still learning his craft. He’s now back at base enjoying a well-earned break out at grass. He’s a horse with the size and scope to jump a fence in due course, his pedigree and physique both point that way, but there’s no rush. On what he’s shown, there’s still more to come over hurdles, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see him pick up another decent pot in that sphere before we start thinking about a novice chasing campaign.

​Jack Hyde also made the long journey north to Perth and ran a cracking race in the 2m4f Hurdle, just bumping into one who looked particularly well treated on the day. He travelled strongly throughout, jumped soundly, and rallied to the line. It was a performance full of promise and suggested another win won’t be far away when things fall a little more kindly. He’s now back home enjoying a bit of downtime after a busy spell, and the plan will be to go novice chasing next season, which should really play to his strengths. 

Our owners had a fantastic time at Perth, it’s a brilliant, relaxed festival with a great atmosphere, and it was always a lucky meeting for me back in my riding days. 

​King’s Scholar has been confirmed for the prestigious Chester Cup on Friday, though we’ll need a few to come out to be guaranteed a run, and ideally a drop of rain would arrive to take the edge off the ground and keep conditions safe for him. It’s a race that would suit him well if everything falls into place, but we won’t be forcing the issue. Should things not pan out, we’ve got plenty of alternative options over hurdles at Southwell, Aintree, or Perth, so he won’t be short of opportunities.

​Belle Le Grand is set to line up at Newton Abbot on Wednesday in the 2m Mares’ Handicap Hurdle, and this looks a good opportunity for her to get back on track. She’s a mare who tends to come into her own at this time of year when the ground is a bit more in her favour, conditions should be just about ideal for her and Harry Skelton is back on board.

Rainbow Tara has been working well and looks ready to make the switch to hurdles. She’s taken to jumping nicely and is growing in confidence with each schooling session, which is exactly what you want to see at this stage. We’ve deliberately taken our time with her, waiting for the right conditions, as safe ground is absolutely paramount. There’s a bit of rain on the way so she could head to Fontwell next week. She’s a mare we’ve always liked and I don’t think we’ve seen the best of her just yet. There’s a feeling she will take a nice step forward once everything falls into place.

​Huge congratulations to the Skelton team for securing the trainers’ title, surpassing the £5 million mark in prize money for the season. It’s a remarkable achievement, but one that comes as no surprise when you see the operation up close. Their professionalism, consistency, and attention to detail set a real benchmark.

​Saint Jeannais has really caught the eye at Grange Hill Farm. He looks an absolute picture at the moment and has been going about his work with a great deal of purpose. We’re in no rush with him and, like a few of the others, we’re keeping a close eye on the weather as safe ground is key. He’ll have plenty of entries over the next 10 days to give him every chance of getting a run before heading out for a summer break.

​Ink Black Heart, Run Away Joe and Leloopa are all now out enjoying a well-earned break in the field. They’ve let down nicely after their campaigns and are relishing the chance to switch off. Lindsey and the kids are keeping a close eye on them, making sure they’re getting plenty of attention. It’s an important time for them to relax and strengthen up, both mentally and physically, before being brought back in for the season ahead.

As the season drew to a close last week, we’d like to take the opportunity to sincerely thank all of our owners for their continued support, it’s something we never take for granted. It’s been a thoroughly enjoyable campaign, with 10 winners on the board and 15 visits to the winner’s enclosure, along with plenty of competitive performances along the way.

Days like those are what it’s all about, and they’re made all the more special by being able to share them with such a great group of people. We have a number of horses progressing nicely and plenty to look forward to, we’re excited for what lies ahead and hopeful there’s much more to come in the seasons to follow.

​Paddy