Bumper Weekend Ahead

There is no racing in this country today, so for a bit of Christmas action on the television we have to rely on Dundalk and Meydan.  I see that there are plenty of English based jockeys over at Meydan at present (Richard Hills, Richard Mullen, James Doyle & Ted Durcan to name but a few) and I suppose they will be taking more rides there over the coming months.  I can't say that I blame them - at least they will be keeping nice and warm over Christmas.  Over in Ireland they are racing on the all-weather - it is amazing how much better funded their all-weather racing is compared to on these shores.

The next meetings in this country take place on Boxing Day and the obvious highlight is the King George VI Chase at Kempton that features a fascinating rematch between Cheltenham Gold Cup winner and reigning King George winner Long Run and former champion Kauto Star - add to the mix Master Minded and it should certainly be an exciting race.  Kempton is certainly the place to be on Boxing Day as the supporting card features the Grade One Feltham Chase and a possible clash between top novices Grands Crus and Bobs Worth.

The stable has entries at no fewer than eight meetings in this country (Ffos Las, Fontwell, Huntingdon, Kempton, Market Rasen, Towcester, Wetherby & Wincanton) on Boxing Day as well as at Leopardstown over in Ireland where Notus de la Tour (pictured right) participates in the Grade One novices' chase on Monday and Sona Sasta competes in the valuable staying handicap chase on Tuesday.  It will certainly be a hectic time for the yard.

*****

I enjoyed watching the match between Spurs and Chelsea last night even though it ended in a draw.  I thought that Chelsea looked to be the better team so it shows that Tottenham have a way to go yet before they can call themselves one the Premiership's elite.  Incidentally, John Terry didn't half takes a bit of stick from the home supporters!