A Blank Day

Today there are four meetings taking place, two on the level at Southwell and Wolverhampton as well as two jumps meetings at Carlisle and Ludlow.  Our only runner Businessmoney Judi was close up until two out at Worcester yesterday afternoon before running out of steam - maybe a drop back in trip might be in order?  A P McCoy was in his usual peerless form at Fontwell yesterday, completing a fine treble - he makes the long trip all the way up to Carlisle this afternoon so I would imagine that his mounts would be well-worth a second look.

Today there are four meetings taking place, two on the level at Southwell and Wolverhampton as well as two jumps meetings at Carlisle and Ludlow.  Our only runner Businessmoney Judi was close up until two out at Worcester yesterday afternoon before running out of steam - maybe a drop back in trip might be in order?  A P McCoy was in his usual peerless form at Fontwell yesterday, completing a fine treble - he makes the long trip all the way up to Carlisle this afternoon so I would imagine that his mounts would be well-worth a second look.

Above: Notus de la Tour on the gallops

Over on the gallops, I have a nice picture of high class hurdler/chaser Notus de la Tour to bring you.  The ex-French six year old, who finished second in Grade One company over fences in Ireland last season is looking very well at present and holds several engagements this weekend, so we could be seeing him very soon.

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I had a little smile when I saw the front page of the Racing Post featuring Frankie Dettori performing a flying dismount from his first winner since announcing his split from the Godolphin team.  Much as I love the Italian's enthusiasm, I hope this isn't going to become a regular occurence - this was only a class 4 maiden at Newmarket so it could end up happening quite a lot if Dettori delivers on his promise of a crack at the jockeys' championship next season!

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I was saddened to see that one of Martin's former owners Bert House has passed away at the age of 95.  Bert had a caravan site at Brean Sands next door to Pontins.  He also built a golf course next to the caravan site - I could tell you a story or two about Bert and his glass eye!  He will be fondly remembered.

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What a terrible night for the English football teams last night!  Manchester City lost to Ajax and even more disastrous, Arsenal lost 2-0 at home to Schalke.  Don't forget that they lost to Norwich on Saturday - the defence looked terrible and their new defensive coach Steve Bould certainly has his work cut out.

The managers merry-go-round has started again with Ipswich needing a new manager.  Paul Jewell left yesterday and I would imagine that Alan Curbishly would be favourite to take over...I can only wish him luck!