We sat on the 3 horses from Doncaster, Robert Robinson's Flemensfirth won't be rushed, he is sharp, the other 2 will be fine and will be bought along slowly.
Alice went to Watership Down Stud to collect a Manduro gelding who will run from here next season, he's an unbroken 3 year old at the moment with 2 white eyes! David Allen and Ben Case were here to see Mr Allen's two home breed fillies by Midnight Legend, the backward one will be going home soon and the more forward one will stay for a few light canters on the woodchip.
There is a lovely piece in the Racing Post today remembering Paul Croucher. I was fortunate enough to get to know Paul when he was Kim Bailey's stable jockey and I was lad aged 17. Paul was one of the nicest guys you could ever wish to meet. He always made a point of making new lads feel welcome and would always seek them out and introduce himself. He was also a serious rider, his death was a tragic accident and I often think of him. He gave me plenty of advice when I started to get a few rides in point to points. I still remember some of it today and pass it on to other young lads starting out. I am sure there is still a Paul Croucher memorial race at Newbury.
