Day two of my whistle-stop tour of Hong Kong and after an excellent evening at the pre-race gala last night, I have spent today having lunch with Mr Arculli on his boat. Not a bad mini-break at all really!
I saw Red Cadeaux for the first time at Sha Tin this morning and he looks in marvellous condition. I know I keep repeating myself, but Robin and Steve really are the engine room behind his success and longevity – both continue to deliver the goods time and again.
One runner this afternoon in the shape of Trip To Paris at Ripon. He will step up to 2m for the first time which is an unknown but he is such a relaxed horse who travels well, so we think he’s well worth a crack at marathon trips. A four pound rise for his Lingfield win seems fair and with the horse so well in himself we had to have a tilt at such a good pot. Graham Lee rides so fingers crossed he can give this enthusiastic partnership another memorable afternoon.
We made three declarations for Monday; Ejbaar, the first foal out of Habaayib who won the Albany for us, will make his debut in the 1m maiden at Wolverhampton. Over at Windsor, Field Of Light, a half-brother to Lunar Deity who enjoyed a prolific winter on the all-weather will see a racecourse for the first time in the 6:00pm. Later on the card, Kitten’s Red will make his seasonal reappearance in the 1m4f handicap.
No entries for us today, although we look set to have plenty on Monday for next weekend. Meanwhile, I hope all those getting up to watch Red Cadeaux in the morning enjoy the race, which is at 9:35am British time. Even after five years of globetrotting we still get a little nervous, but that’s what the games all about!
Finally, we are set for a momentous afternoon at Sandown as AP McCoy calls time on what has been the most magnificent career. It cannot be overstated the influence he has had on the game and he will be sorely, sorely missed. Thank you champ.
Back Monday when I return home, Ed.