Blog

We head to Ballinrobe for only the 2nd time tomorrow. Our previous runner bombed but it was lovely to see the place. Picturesque setting, brilliant stable yard and a terrific crowd and atmosphere. Our first runner is El Chalten. We suspected she was a long term prospect before starting her last Monday and she categorically proved it. She struggled to lie up on ground much quicker than ideal and showed little if I’m honest. Gary was holding out a glimmer of hope for her afterwards on the basis that she looked like getting tailed off with 2 to run but finished half adequately. The longer trip and juice in the ground is in her favour. The fact that it’s much more competitive tomorrow and the tight turning track means Gary Carroll will have his work cut out even getting her to repeat her first run. Global Pass runs in the extended 9f 70 handicap later on the card. I loved his first run. Drawn wide, he stayed wide and looked like getting involved when blowing up late on. I expected to find an opportunity for him to get involved on his next run. I think I’ve failed. It’s a very competitive race for it’s grade and we’ve been drawn in the carpark. He’s a tall, lanky thing that will only improve with time and racing will only help him. Rory rides and if it happens that things spread out and he got a good trip he should run well again. The likelihood of being trapped 6 wide or behind a wall of horses has to be odds on however. We’re going through a bit of a transition at the moment. Between sales of horses and resting those that were busy early doors we’re short on stalwarts. We’re pulling a few babies together at present but we’re facing in to a slightly quieter time. It’s a peculiar existence this training game. Taking the time to stand still and observe or enjoy what’s going on has been a big failure on my part this year. Just getting up earlier and earlier furiously trying to find the next one isn’t sustainable. It’s the middle of August and I’m tired and worried. The first one I know why but not a reason in the world for the second one. Bad draws, head defeats, injuries excoriate you. Social media has been terrific for us and I have not had a negative experience but it’s worth keeping the above in mind. Many small to medium sized trainers in the same boat. Be kind