A Day At The Races

A Day At The Races for Dodlands' Steading at Ayr on Tuesday as we run 5 horses.

Well, the Ayr Racecard has been well and truly scoured, but I just can't see any horse named "Sun Up".
But, if you're intending to Go West on Tuesday afternoon, still keep a watch out for any Italian-American selling form books, trainer notes, jockey ratings or going guides.....don't let him put you off a winner.
I'd expect a few of our stable connections will be in attendance, no doubt after enjoying an excellent lunch at The Western House Hotel. Duck Soup (with Animal Crackers of course) is especially recommended.  

Five runners, four races with 3 of ours effectively having their first run of the season after an Autumn where the yard was badly stricken by a virus. However, recent outings and placed efforts have given confidence that those worrying times are behind us. Although just about every horse has needed a run following the recuperation period.

Ayr 11th February : 1.10 pm 2m 4½f 0-105 Cond'l Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (Class 5)

Eden Mill is one of those who is having his first run after an extended break. He's also had a minor wind operation during the Summer. If he were to recapture his form of November '23, he would most definitely start to be competitive in this grade. Murray Dodd takes the ride.

Eden Mill follows Nights In Venice down the gallop

Ayr 11th February : 2.40 pm 2m 4½f Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)

After a couple of runs last season in bumpers for experience, Wor Lad sets out on what we hope will be a competitive staying jumping career. This 5yr old gelding has the frame of chaser but will again be looking to gain valuable jumping experience. Craig Nichol is in the saddle.

Ayr 11th February : 3.45 pm 3m ½f 0-110 Handicap Hurdle (Class 4)

We've got two in this race.

The handicapper looks to have Shoeshine Boy firmly in his grip and he may need to drop a few lbs in the handicap before being able to poke his nose in front anytime soon. He's such an honest horse though. Craig is again up top.

Bollin Matilda is another that was quite badly affected by the virus, so is probably best watched today. Murray Dodd rides.

Shoeshine Boy (Laura) leads Bollin Matilda

Ayr 11th February : 4.20 pm 3m 0-100 Handicap Chase (Class 5)

Cowboy Cooper probably represents the yard's best opportunity today. He ran well enough (finished 4th) over a distance short of his best at Ayr last month, so we hope he can be as competitive here, with that race over hurdles having blown the cobwebs away.
Craig Nichol completes his trio of rides for the stable with this gelding.

However, he does face stern opposition from Thomson's back in form The Jad Factor, Kinneston Nick's Scalloway Boy and Stuart's recent acquisition from Christian Williams, Montys Soldier

 
Cowboy Cooper (on the right with Laura)

And after a thrilling day, what better way to relax than to spend A Night At The Opera.