Back to business

I don't get back to ol' blighty till the end of August - and as much as I love it here in Ceret I do miss the stuff back home. I use to be a member at Goodwood - and for me Glorious Goodie was always one week - a bit like Cheltenham - that was just unmissable . Watching on TV - unlike cricket - is not the same . Must be the social thing about it . One can't be every where so choices have to be made .
A good mate of mine and friend to The Anorak ( yes - he does have one ) - Steve Nelson - had a runner last week - Commend - trained by Sir Stoute . Although the horse finished down the field I bet still there were a few bottles of champers 'downed on the downs ' . DP also was there with a runner for for Will Frewen ( Loche Derg fame ) so a good time was missed I feel . I need to get a better control of my life !
Still - I did speak to DP - albeit on the phone . DP reports that George has summered the best he has ever done - actually put on weight ! Although The King George will be his main target we might just start him in the brush hurdle at Haydock . He's rated 157 both over fences and hurdles - on previous form he would be nicely weighted - but needs to prove last season was all wrong . I'm confident that DP has got to the bottom of what was plaguing him but only his first run will tell us .
Geoffrey has also done well over the summer . He went for the usual breathing op yesterday and all went well . He's due back to the stable today . Haven't discussed what he'll be doing this season - but would think it would be novice chasing . Am I allowed to dream ? Feltham Chase / King George runner on Boxing Day !
This photo is of Brucie's ( bless - do miss him ) 4yr old full brother . Bill Smith ( breeder ) was devastated when I told him of Brucies demise . He was hoping that this was going to be the year for him - and that he might sell be young bruv . Then I would've had a pair of brothers ! Alas ... Still young bruv is a nice stamp of a fella . We shall see - and CU .