Disasters for Richard Johnson
Jockey Richard Johnson suffered a nightmare day at Exeter on Tuesday, when he was first banged out of the saddle by a loose horse and then fell in the next race when his mount slid over a couple of lengths from the line.
Chilling Place, his first mount and a winning chance, was crashed into by a runaway horse near the finish, catapulting Johnson out of the saddle. The second fall was just as unfortunate – Out the Black was in front when he slid over a few feet from the winning post, throwing Johnson over the line and not crossing it himself until several others had passed.
Ascot to hold Pony Racing sale
The Ascot Racing Pony Sale will be held at Ascot Racecourse Stables as a section of the main November Ascot Sale next Tuesday (7 November). Proven and potential racing ponies aged four – 19 years will be on sale. For more information please telephone Brightwells: 01568 619777.
Big three on form for Breeders’ Cup
Bernardini, Lava Man and Invasor, favourites for the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic, hit the track at Churchill Downs on Thursday in glowing form. Unbeaten superstar Bernardini’s trainer Tom Albertrani was impressed by his performance and is confident he is ready for the biggest test of his career. Meanwhile Lava Man and Invasor also ran well, ensuring the Classic will be an exciting match. George Washington, whose Breeders’ Cup appearance will mark his debut on dirt, has been drawn to start next to Bernardini.
Reveillez to miss Paddy Power Gold Cup
Reveillez, favourite for next Saturday’s Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham, will probably not grace the track with his presence. Trainer James Fanshawe confirmed he is unlikely to run. Instead the Jewson Novices’ handicap winner will be aimed at the graduation chase or either Ascot or Peterborough the following weekend.
Oughton coming home
Hong Kong-based trainer David Oughton is leaving training and coming home to his native Sussex. Oughton, 52, who trained star sprinter Cape Of Good Hope and numerous other Group 1 winners, has been training for the last 30 years.
Win for David Pipe
Trainer David Pipe scored his first big win last Saturday after the retirement of his father Martin Pipe. Jockey Timmy Murphy rode the eight-year-old chaser Our Vic to victory in the Bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby.
HHO’s tips for the weekend…
