Hexham prospects on Wednesday

We take 3 horses to Hexham tomorrow, with an advanced going prediction of soft with heavy places.
Ideal.

There is a rare double entry from our stable in the extended 2½ mile handicap hurdle when Bollin Fiona (Ryan, claiming 10) and Mini the Minx (Callum, claiming 5) take on 11 opponents.  Mini the Minx has not really struck form yet this season but she battles away in her races. She may find the trip on the sharp side, as 3 miles might be the sort of distance to bring out the best in her, but rated 84 there are not that many races to choose from in the north.

Mini the Minx (with Ross)

Bollin Fiona makes her seasonal return, although she can be forgiven if she has the feeling of 'deja vu all over again' (to quote Yogi Bear). The mare was in winning form here on her last run, in June, in equally gruelling conditions.
Like Mini, Fiona may find the distance of this race to be short of her best.

Bollin Fiona (on the left, with Lewis) in a recent gallop with Texas Tilly

Sam Patch ran some fine races last season without getting his nose in front. The gelding makes his seasonal debut in the 2½ mile (plus a few yards) handicap chase, facing 4 opponents. He has his regular jockey in the plate (Wilson Renwick) and he has been schooling well in preparation for this.
The ownership of the gelding has passed onto Star Racing, a racing partnership run by Scott Taylor who got involved with a couple of horses of Allan Gilchrist last season.

Good luck with their debut runner.

Sam Patch (with Kyle)