It was a real thrill heading over to France last Sunday and win again on the wonderful Onassis – what a lovely and talented filly she is. She showed why she has got so many gears, by the way she quickened through the race, and I can’t wait to see where she goes next. Huge well done to Charlie Fellowes and all his team there.
Friday – Newmarket
2:50 – Sea The Spirit
This looks a tough race with Darain setting a clear standard from his impressive win first time out at Newbury. Sea The Spirit has not been seen on the racecourse since last spring when he finished behind Pinatubo on debut. He has been gelded since, which could bring out some improvement, but it looks a hard task with over a year off the track.
3:20 – Heliaebel
I team up with Charlie Fellowes here, who is in great form. Heliaebel is a filly who wasn’t right on her last start, but I think you can ignore that run. She’s worked well with a visor on at home and I think that could bring her to life. She has clearly been giving herself an easy time of it!
Saturday: Newmarket
12:30 – Ginger Jam
Ginger Jam was an amazing horse for Nigel Tinkler last year – he won six races, which is incredible going. I think as a result; his handicap mark has hindered him a bit so far this year, but he’s clearly a horse that knows where the winning post is so you can’t ignore him!
1:05 – Broughtons Gold
I finished 2nd on Broughtons Gold at Kempton last season, but we were correctly awarded the race in the Stewards Room having been interfered with close to home. He followed up that win at Newbury in June under Andrea when winning well. I think the soft ground went against him on his latest start, so the return to a sounder surface will play to his strengths and I’m really looking forward to riding him.
1:40 – Giacommo
I have had plenty of luck with the owners of Giacommo – I’ve been hugely grateful to Imad’s support over the years and he looks to have a really nice and select bunch of horses for the season. Giacommo is nicely bred and Roger’s horses are going nicely, so he has an each-way chance.
3:25 Blue Skyline
I rode Blue Skyline out this morning at David Elsworth’s. I’m glad I did as he’s a real character and takes a bit of knowing. He disappointed on his latest start but I’m going to try and get him involved early tomorrow so he knows he’s in a race. It’s hard to be too confident about what mood he’ll be in though!
