Saturday was a good day with Autumn Return winning the mares novice hurdle at Market Rasen. Bought after winning her third point to point by Bobby O’Ryan she won her bumper for us in April. That was a gritty display and she showed a willing attitude, which was again on display on Saturday. We gave her a bit of cover this time which helped her settle but she showed speed when needed. Her jumping was ok and will become slicker in time.
Inca Prince was beaten further than I would have liked and came back minus two shoes. He didn’t go haring off quite as fast as he has in the past but his jumping wasn’t as slick as it has been. He had not had the chance to school over white painted, conventional hurdles this season with the ground being so firm and he should improve in the future. It was also his first run against older horses and I think he was the only horse coming into the race off a break, the rest having ran through summer. He will come on for the run.
Tomorrow Silver Coin makes her handicap debut at Southwell, also stepping up in trip. Ideally the ground will be good and well watered which Southwell usually achieve. Conor Rabbitt who rides for Nicky Richards takes 5lb off. Returning from a break she may need the run and she will come on for the experience.
