Let the roadwork commence!

It has been a very quiet period for the yard in the past couple of weeks, with just the one runner - Neverbeen To Paris, who journeyed up to Pontefract last Sunday to contest a staying handicap on the flat.  We were optimistic of a good run following his fine 2nd at Yarmouth, and having been encouraged along to pick up the bridle in the early stages, he settled in mid-division of the eight-runner field.  Coming under pressure as the race started to develop inside the final five furlongs, he was unable to hold his position, dropping to last turning for home and failing to make any further impression.  Sadly the race didn't go according to plan for him and he clearly didn't like the track as he was changing legs frequently and therefore felt unbalanced.  We will draw a line through this run and stick to flat, galloping tracks with long straights from now on.

With a recent run under his belt, we will be hoping Flash de Clerval can take a step forward at either Uttoxeter on Sunday or Worcester next Wednesday.  Sticking to hurdles at present, we have the option of going back up to 2½m at Worcester, a trip he is very much bred to appreciate.

Numberoneson has yet to hit the heights anticipated since his arrival from Ireland last summer but may be given the opportunity to get back on track at Southwell next Monday.  He is entered for a selling novice hurdle over 2m and should benefit from the drop in grade in what would be his first start since January.

On the same card, Breaking Waves could attempt to get his head back in front in the 2½m handicap hurdle.  Recent form figures of 2334 show that he is in good heart and we think moving back up in distance will suit.

Warranty ran well when finishing a close fourth on the Flat at Pontefract last time and is likely to contest a similar staying event at Chepstow next Tuesday.  This race would represent a notable drop in class and is one he’d be capable of winning on a going day.

Waterlefe Getaway, who was forced to miss an intended engagement at Uttoxeter last week, has a trio of options in the next fortnight as we aim to get her back on track on her second start after wind surgery.  Her choices include handicaps at Worcester, Newton Abbot and Market Rasen, the first and last-named being races restricted to conditional jockeys.

EMERGING FORCE  Last weekend we waved a fond farewell to Emerging Force.  A special horse for all connections and who has played a part in the story here at HWR.  He has gone to the forever home of Gemma Quintin who has been a long standing member of the team and who cared for him through his career here with us.  We are sad to see him go but wish them all the best and a happy future together.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH IS Stuart Baker

Until next week...