Richard is King for a day

It went a bit under the radar yesterday with most of the world's eyes on the action at Meydan but we had a winner at Lingfield. Richard Perham, who rides out in the mornings for me before working as the jockey coach at the British Racing School rode King Columbo to victory in a charity race. Sent off the 5-6 favourite, Richard was determined to make up for last year's defeat on Chadwell Spring when Gay Kelleway beat him by a nose.

Although admittedly nervous before the off, Richard gave Columbo a lovely ride, just settled behind the pace-setter and then produced him late in the straight to win by a head. Admittedly, the rider of the second was pretty incapable of pushing a horse out but Richard looked like he had lost none of his old style that saw him ride 200 winners in his heyday. The victory should do the horse's confidence the world of good as he hadn't won in two years and he'll be properly fit when running under rules next time.

We've had a great response to the 'Three to Follow' competition with plenty of owners and outsiders entering up. There's still a week left to get your decision made so see last week's post for all the information.

The horsebox won't be heading anywhere until Saturday in the next seven days but I'm more than hopeful that we'll be firing in some winners. My first turf runner of the year goes to Doncaster on Saturday and I think Sail Home will have a great chance, especially if there is a drop of rain, as she has been working well at home. Also in need of some rain is Sancho Panza (pictured winning at Windsor last year) on Sunday. He's an improving horse and we've found the key to him is soft ground and not being hit with the whip in a finish, so I think he'll go close. Bavarica will be entered in the race as well in case the ground is firm.

On the same day we may have our first international runner as Spirit of Sharjah is in at The Curragh in Ireland. The key factor will be the ground though as he needs it perfect and we won't be going if it's too soft. He's in a Group 3 but most of the horses entered have tasted defeat to our lad so I think he should run well.

Exopuntia came back into the yard yesterday after a short holiday and I was amazed to see she has grown even more. She's a massive filly and the key to her success is a straightish and flat 7f. Yarmouth is right up her street.

Old warrior Sand Repeal is also back in exercise after his leg injury and I'll be pleased if I can just get him back to the track after the problems he has had.