Holly (7/2) had shaped with plenty of promise on her British debut at Uttoxeter in late October finishing fifth behind Lady Adare. The four year old who won three bumpers in her native France, stepped forward from that run when scoring easily in a two miles maiden hurdle at Wincanton on Tuesday. Taking on the geldings, Jonjo O'Neill's charge was always travelling smoothly and never came off the bridle pulling seven lengths clear. Featured in the French Revolution section of One Jump Ahead, it will be interesting to see where she goes next. It was suggested in the November Update that she could be targeted at the mares' final at Newbury in the spring. On this evidence, she may be better than that. It may not have been the strongest of maiden hurdles but she couldn't have won any easier. The FR section has had a productive few days following the victory of Hardy Du Seuil (6/1) at Hereford on Saturday.
Congratulations to owner Mike Newbould following Kracka Nut's victory in the concluding bumper at Catterick later the same afternoon. As discussed, I visit Mike at his home last month and he passed on a positive bulletin regarding the four year old. Reported to have worked well at home, the Blue Bresil gelding was given a confident ride by Harry Skelton coming from nearly last to first before pulling away for a four and three quarters of a length victory. Judging by the market support closely before the off, it is fair to say the result didn't come as a surprise. In all likelihood, he will kept to bumpers this term before embarking on a hurdles career next Autumn.
I am delighted to announce that the Christmas Special will include an interview with the late Trevor Hemmings racing manager Mick Meagher. Based in Lancashire, Mick has kindly run through 20 horses who sport the famous green, yellow and white silks of the legendary owner who sadly passed away in October. These include some exciting youngsters such as Harbour Lake, Hillcrest, Iron Bridge and established stars Cloudy Glen and Cloth Cap. There is also a potential smart bumper horse who has yet to be seen in public.
The Christmas Special will be emailed to clients a week on Wednesday (22nd December) - if you haven't already ordered a copy, please head to the Publications section of the site.
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