All Jumping Abandoned!

Sadly both the jumps cards from Warwick and Uttoxeter have been lost to the elements which is a great shame as the stable was due to have runners at both meetings.  It is not often that I say this, but thank goodness for the all-weather where they hold a flat card at Lingfield this afternoon!  Even so, I can't forgive them a paltry £27,000 in prize money across their seven race fixture.

There were ridiculous scenes at Taunton yesterday and for once I have to say that I agree with Paul Nicholls.  How on earth can you miss out the hurdles in the back straight but be okay to jump the fences?!  This low sun business really gets on my nerves - you never saw all this happen 20 years ago...surely the sun was as low over both types of obstacles?

Following complaints made by Amigo's part owner Arnie Kaplan regarding their Welsh National fixture, I notice that Chepstow clerk of the course Phil Bell said that his was the only negative feedback.  Well...not anymore!  Now there is plenty of negative feedback including trainer Evan Williams who said that the arrangements at the owners and trainers desk was 'shocking, unacceptable and a total disgrace.'  I think that Mr Bell owes Arnie a polite apology - I wonder if he visited the owners and trainers at all?  Judging by the number of complaints, I would guess not!

It is former owner Bob Wheatley's 73rd birthday today and he owned one of Martin's most famous winnners; 1981 Triumph Hurdle victor Baron Blakeney.  I know I go on about it every year, but 33 years on, do you really think I am going to stop now?  I very shrewdly backed Baron Blakeney for the Triumph at 50/1 and watched with delight as he romped home at 66's...you see, I was a great judge back then too!

I would like to add my congratulations to Edward Gillespie, former managing director of Cheltenham racecourse for receiving an OBE in the Queen's New Years Honours List.  Edward did a remarkable job during his 32 years at Cheltenham transforming the racecourse and making the Festival in particular, a meeting like no other in this country.  Well done to him on this very well deserved recognition for his efforts.

I see that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has stated that he wants a video replay panel to look into diving in the penalty area.  How long have I been going on about using technology like this?  Having said all that, I don't like it much when Wenger agrees with me!

Finally, I would just like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year and don't drink too much!