Cheltenham Day 3

There are four meetings again today. The big one of course at Cheltenham and also jumps cards at Hexham and Towcester plus a flat card at Chelmsford.  David has three runners at Cheltenham.  Dell'arca and Taj Badalandabad run in the 2.10pm Pertemps handicap hurdle over three miles.  Dell'arca does have some good form and goes on any ground.  He won a qualifier for this race at Newbury in November.  It is a good ride for Michael Heard who takes off a handy five pounds although he is a big price.  Tom Scu rides Taj Badalandabad.  He has won plenty of times and he will also go on the ground.  If he runs to his best form he would have an each way chance but he is a bit inconsistent and he is also a big price.  King's Socks runs in the 2m5f handicap chase and there are 24 runners.  He does have some useful form in France and had a nice run at Kempton last month, his first start for the stable.  He should be spot on for today and we do expect a big run.

Poor old Ruby Walsh had a nasty fall on Al Boum Photo in the RSA chase and it looks like he has done similar damage to the same leg he broke back in November.  Ruby told RUK that he won't know the full extent of his injury until next Tuesday but he will miss the rest of the Festival.  Let's hope he is not out of action for too long.  I thought Altior was very impressive in the end yesterday and won with a bit in hand.  I thought he looked beaten 2 out and I was quite happy as I had had a few quid on Min but Altior stormed up the Cheltenham hill.  I love to see the good horses performing well and winning on the the big days.

Today the ground will be softer after 8mm of overnight rain.  It is a good job they didn't get us much as we had here at Pond House though - we had 33mm!!  David is staying up after racing today for the sales.  There are some nice horses for sale and they are likely to make some money.  If you are interested in buying one or have won the lottery give the office a ring on 01884 840715 and they will put you in touch with David.

Matt Chapman came into our marquee again yesterday.  He was very entertaining and informative but I think you either love him or hate him.  I think he grows on you a but like a rash!

I better mention that it is Leanne's birthday today (David's better half!)  She is heading up to Cheltenham today so I am sure she will have a good time.  Let's just keep our fingers crossed for a birthday winnner!

I should have known I'd never last as a deep sea diving instructor.  I'm no good under pressure!