Our next outing was at Cottenham on 3rd December with 3 runners. Ballybough Gorta had his season debut with Noah on in the Conditions race; the experienced horse ran really well, jumping brilliantly and given a very positive ride by 16 year old Noah to gain 3rd place. The trip was slightly short for the gelding (2 1/2 miles) so we will aim for further next outing.
Next to run was Hawkhurst; this was his debut run for the yard. He has class but is slightly temperamental and requires a lot of individual attention at home. Sam Burton & Joe Hill have put a lot of effort and patience into this horse which has made a world of difference. He won the restricted race very well in the fastest time of the day in 5 min 57.4 secs, leaving new owner Keith Loades very excited!
Our final runner of the day was in the long maiden and another new horse to the yard. Desert Retreat, ridden by the owners son Gareth Henderson, is not the easiest of rides; Gareth followed instruction, got settled and buried in. The horse was jumping well when he overjumped the 3rd last unfortunately unseating Gareth when in with a chance of a first 3 finish. Both horse and jockey were fine.
It was a productive day with a new horse winning and two owner riders having good rides. Roll on the season!
Joe Hill & Hawkhurst