Christmas Special - interview with Evan Williams

The Big Breakaway made it two out of two over hurdles with another easy success in the two and a half miles novices' hurdle at Newbury on Wednesday. Colin Tizzard's former winning Irish pointer had created a favourable impression on his Rules debut at Chepstow last month and it was more of the same at the Berkshire venue. The Getaway gelding, who cost €360,000 at the Punchestown Festival Sale in May, was always going well under Robbie Power and produced a spectacular leap at the third last. Despite conceding six pounds to another ex-pointer, Papa Charlie Tango, he readily saw off Jonjo O'Neill's runner to win in a stylish manner by seven lengths. It would be no surprise to see him head to Cheltenham's Trials meeting in late January for the Grade 2 novice hurdle over two and a half miles. Both the Ballymore and Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdles at the Festival in March look realistic targets with a decision being made nearer the time. Colin Tizzard has another tremendous prospect on his hands and he looks a future star unearthed in the Top 40 Prospects of One Jump Ahead.

Evan Williams has enjoyed a very productive first half of the season with 28 winners, including a Grade 1 success at Sandown earlier this month. I am therefore delighted to announce that the Christmas Special will feature an interview with the Glamorgan based handler. I spoke to Evan this morning as he was en route to Ludlow. Blessed with some hugely promising youngsters, it is exciting times at Fingerpost Farm. I am sure subscribers will find it an interesting and informative read.

Talking of the Christmas Special, the intention is to send the Update out on Sunday evening. Apologies this is later than originally planned but Irish expert Declan Phelan is penning an article and he is keen to see the Irish entries beforehand. Therefore there is still plenty of time to order a copy, if you haven't already done so. Please head to the Publications section of the site.