Shoeshine Boy a close up 5th at Hexham on Thursday

Beaten less then 5 lengths in 5th over a near 3 miles on heavy, Shoeshine Boy ran well on his return to the racecourse after 6 weeks off. He raced prominently for most of the race although he didn't look like winning after 2 out, this was a pleasing run. Maybe less testing conditions next time may present a winning opportunity.

Two runners at Newcastle Saturday - firstly Maid Of Houxty

Newcastle Saturday, to wile away those post Cheltenham blues. Soft ground, heavy in places and 7 races.

First up, although fairly late in the actual card at 4pm, is Maid Of Houxty. Class 5 handicap chase over a distance just short of 3 miles.
Bill Aichison's mare was a fine 3rd last time out over this distance at Ayr and the winner, 4th & 5th have all subsequently won. So this is a good opportunity for her to get off the mark with Henry Brooke again back in the saddle.

The biggest danger may be Ballynagan who made all under today's jockey (Emma Smith-Chaston) at Wetherby a couple of runs back and is not one to be gifted an easy lead, whilst the booking of Brian Hughes for triple course winner (actually unbeaten here) Catlin catches the eye. Catlin also likes to lead.

Good luck to all the connections.

Maid Of Houxty (Shay)

Enemy At The Gate - third time lucky

After a couple of unsuccessful attempts to run recently - none his fault - Enemy At The Gate goes at Newcastle in the 4.35pm, a 2m 4½f novices' handicap hurdle. 12 run.

At the risk of inevitably repeating ourselves, Enemy At The Gate is harshly treated by the handicapper based on this season's form but we're looking for him to be a bit more competitive based on his recent work efforts over the past couple of weeks.

 On handicap debut at Wetherby, Burrows Hall was well supported and ran a promising race over 2 miles, staying on over the last. He'll be suited by this trip and looks one to be involved in the finish. Much the same profile can be attached to the scopey Eloi du Puy while Hattons Gardens is another who has been threatening to improve for the switch to handicaps (the impressive young conditional Partick Wadge has been booked - 7 wins from last 10 rides).

So, a fair test for our gelding and good luck to Henry Brooke

Enemy At The Gate (Laura)