FLOOD HITS HARRATON!

We had an unusual beginning to Thursday morning when a pipe had burst in the field next to us causing havoc. John initially noticed the sound of water when feeding early on so he took a torch out to discover a river literally running down the side of the hedgerow and depositing in the hay barn, destroying bails of straw, shavings and hay. We had a dribble of water in the yard and house throughout the day so I dread to think what the rest of the village ended up with. Although, Rolo (below) enjoyed a little paddle and tried to figure out how to save the day!

Amongst the mayhem we had quite a few runners this week. Kicking off with Blackmore at Kemton on Thursday, he ran better than of late but still below his best, they went a moderate gallop which would not have suited him and probably did well to come in 4th. The next day we arrived at Wolverhampton with Dolly Bay and The Ducking Stool. They both put in poor efforts with the former being quite well supported in the market after a decent run last time, she seems to be one who has to have things fall right. 'Ducky' would have been the one that I fancied more at her price but after trying a range of distances I think around 1m 2f is her ideal as that's the best race she's run when tried at that trip. The week ended with a trip to Southwell on Saturday, Exopuntia is another who has to have things fall right for her and after blowing the start her race was over. It is especially difficult at this track as they go quick from the word go, she was not enjoying her race so they jockey was not too hard on her. Sail Home also that day ran another encouraging race in 4th, however they seem to have a little more toe and would be better with a step up in trip so she can use her stamina.

I spoke too soon on the names front for my babies, as a letter from the BHA confirmed when letting me know I can not have Sir Toby Belch for the Araafa colt as there is already a Toby Belch so it might cause some confusion, although I like Tobermory Bay for him. Also Homewood Bound is not available for the Tiger Hill yearling as there is also a similar name, so back to the drawing board it is , name suggestions would be appreciated.

Next week Blackmore is in again at Kempton on Wednesday hoping for a better account, Automotive runs that day and at that meeting. Who is probably now crossed off every ones 'certainty' lists after that dismal first run for us, but he has been working with Spirit Of Sharjah and there's not alot in it, but none of that matters if he can't produce it on the racecourse like last time.