Interview with the 12 times champion

It is fair to say the action on the track this week has been ordinary to say the least. That has meant I have had the opportunity to get plenty of work done on both the York Update and One Jump Ahead. On Tuesday, I spoke to Joe Foley, who not only runs Ballyhane Stud in Ireland, but he is also racing manager for Clipper Logistics. Their familiar grey silks are set to be well represented on the Knavesmire next week and Joe kindly ran through their likely runners, which include some smart juveniles. If you haven't ordered a copy of the York Ebor Update, please go to the Publications section of the site.

Switching codes, I have nearly completed the interviews for One Jump Ahead. On Wednesday, I got the rundown on the most exciting recruits from France which will be plying their trade in the UK and Ireland this winter. For the third consecutive year, James Reveley passed on his views and opinions on some terrific young horses who he either partnered or rode against during the spring/summer across the English Channel. The pick of those highlighted will feature in the Top 40 Prospects with the remainder included in the French Revolution section. There were at least two horses which James described as 'potentially top class.'

Finally, Paul Nicholls was crowned champion trainer for the twelfth time last term and the head of Team Ditcheat feels he has 'his best ever team of horses' for the campaign ahead. Speaking to Paul on Wednesday afternoon, we covered over a hundred horses including some very promising youngsters who have joined the yard from France and Ireland. It will be a surprise if he doesn't retain his title next spring such is the strength of the stable. It was a pleasure to run through such a powerful team of horses.

The York Ebor meeting is my favourite Flat fixture in the calendar but I can't wait for the jumps season to get cracking in earnest. On that theme, I will be updating the Publications section of the site early next week - One Jump Ahead won't be published until mid September but clients will be able to order the book, plus the Updates, at the beginning of next week (Monday 16th August onwards). I will be emailing previous clients with full details, plus posting letters to others.