This n that

Great picture of Madison - isn't it . He looks fantastic but I think I prefer his rider !
We bought Madi out of a claiming race in France . I'd been to Taunton races that day ( must've had a runner there but can't remember the horse - couldn't have won anyway - would've remembered ) and Martin persuaded me to go back to Pond House for a cup of tea . This was in the depth of December and I just wanted to head home - but Martin is a very persuasive character . So sitting on the sofa back at Pond House - tea and cake in hand - we watched this race from Auteuil . The winner was very impressive and Martin claimed him - through his French agent Hubert Barre ? for 35k . I said to Martin that I wanted first option on him . He turned round to me and said 'stupid boy (often said that) 'YOU can't afford him ! Anyway - he's going to one of my favourite owners' - a one Stuart Mercer - 'but I also like the second so shall we buy him ?'. So we bought Madison du Berlais for 20k euros . He went on to win over 400k sterling . The winner of that race never won again ! I do like reminding Stuart of the story whenever I see him .
It's good to report that Only is over his little setback and is due to run either at Sandown Friday week or the next day at Ascot . Geoff is scheduled to run at Haydock that same Saturday - so it could be an exciting weekend .
George is fine but blood count still low - so no rush there . Still got hopes of Aintree for him but it might be that we have to 'pull stumps' with him for this season .
Bruce is also well after HIS little injury . Waiting for better ground for him . CU
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