13th May 2015
A successful Saturday with Temptress running out a good winner. Returning to Ascot where she had blitzed a good field last year, she proceeded to do the same again, to an even better field. She travelled strongly as she can, towards the rear of the field, before quickening up well with the minimum of fuss. The handicapper has raised her 7 lbs to 98. We are undecided yet whether she will stick to handicap company and head for the Hunt Cup or whether we jump straight up in to Black Type races. The pace of handicaps does suit her.
On Monday Ataman made his debut, which was full of promise. The winner had some solid form, but the rest of the field aren’t exactly progressing at a rate of knots. I was pleased how professional he was and delighted for his patient owner that he ran so well. We will look for something similar in a couple of weeks.
Today we run Elite Force at Bath. He was a little disappointing last time, when he probably should have won, and we hope that the blinkers may help. He will be assisted by R Hughes, who rode so many winners for us in the past.
Melodica makes her debut in a handicap after 3 runs in maidens. She steps up in trip, but will need to settle having been a little free first time out this year. The ground is set to be fast, with some good to firm in places. This will also be new to her. It is not the greatest race on paper and I hope she can run well.