Summer’s when the circus rolls in

We were joined on the track this week by young members of Tony Manuel’s Blue Stable string who were busy gaining valuable exercise practice during the quieter months.

I thought many of our string were well up to circus performing – both horse and rider – but judging by the antics of several of Manuel’s contingent, they would certainly give us a run for our money!

Long-standing rider Wayne Rimmer proved he still hasn’t lost his staying-on skills despite his mount treating onlookers to an athletic display of bucks and rears that wouldn’t look out of place in the dressage ring.

While earlier in the week, poor old Bruno Bertin was quickly deposited on the sand courtesy of the cheeky Seeking An Alibi, who fancied going around the track in the opposite direction – another example of the trials and tribulations we work-riders face on a day-to-day basis, all of which certainly keep us on our toes, or perhaps more aptly, on the ground.

At least the loose horse gave the four outriders something to keep them occupied. It must be so boring sitting on the back of a horse getting tanned each morning. Who knows what will happen once the action dries up on the track next month? Maybe they’ll have a go at rounding up some of the wild cats who have made Nad Al Sheba their home.

Green grass of home

On the subject of new homes, or temporary abodes to be precise, several of Saeed Bin Surour’s charges have taken up summer residency at Green Stable where they are to get well looked after and exercised before returning to the Godolphin trainer for the start of next season.

There are many top horses among them, and while I can’t divulge any names, if looks are anything to go by, I’m sure the trainer will be hoping some individuals become permanent residents.

Green light for leighs?

The far from Great Leighs is to undergo a final (or so it is hoped) inspection by members of British racing’s governing body today to decide whether the first meeting next Sunday can take place.

The newest racecourse since Taunton came under starters orders in 1927 has been blighted with a whole host of problems, but after a trial meeting last weekend, trainers and jockeys reported the track to be raceable.

Dubai Carnival-winning trainer, Ed Dunlop, said: “Obviously, not all the racecourse is finished yet and there are things that need ironing out.

“But I was happy to bring the horses and glad I came.”

Richard Mullen added: “It’s a lovely track. It gives a similar feel to Wolverhampton.” The race to get the course up and running has certainly been a marathon rather than a sprint, but if all goes well today, the United Kingdom’s 60th racecourse is sure to attract plenty of crowds when it does eventually open its turnstiles. But I still wouldn’t be surprised if Dubai’s very own Meydan is in action beforehand!