Up-to-date entries Horses for sale
Astrobrava (two-year-old out of Nutmeg)
Friday 9th May
No runners today, but it has therefore been a busy morning back at base. Several older horses worked on the peat moss gallop, including Trew Style, Toparudi and then three that are featured on the video: Astroangel, Soggy Dollar and Sleeping. A group of two-year-olds went through the stalls several times (more on these next week).
We also have video from Dullingham Park Stud of some of the mares and foals. Some of the two-year-olds bred out of mares based at Dullingham Park Stud are pictured above and below.
Astroleo (two-year-old out of Astrolove)
Daredevil Dan (two-year-old out of Tiempo)
Drum Dragon (two-year-old out of Qilin)
And, Great Leighs was the port of call yesterday evening. Half-close your eyes and squint to see an exciting new racecourse. Open your eyes to step over the temporary paving and look further afield to the vista of diggers. Not a place for high heels, but ideal for hard hats.
Having said that, with a proper stand and better viewing, it has all the makings of a great day's racing. In the meantime they have a big screen, a successful track surface and enthusiastic staff - more than can be said of some existing racecourses perhaps. "Everybody's trying hard and I hope it succeeds - they deserve to!" added Mark.
View from the Owners and Trainers area to the stand
View of the Weighing Room and beyond
View from the stand to the parade ring
View from the walkway under the course used by the horses and other traffic
View to the winning post from the stand
More tomorrow.
Thursday 8th May
Alan Devonshire, pictured at first lot, is set to run on Saturday
"Alan Devonshire has been in the papers today as I've got a good track record of winning the Lingfield Derby Trial - two wins out of two runners with Bob's Return who went on to win the St Leger after being sixth in the Derby and winning the Great Voltigeur and with Franklins Gardens who went on to run in the Derby and later won the Yorkshire Cup, Group 2," said Mark as he came in from first lot.
"All I can say is that I'm very pleased with Alan Devonshire - he's on good form and we are looking forward to Saturday!"
Alan Devonshire after his bath yesterday
"Today we have Sergeant Sharpe running at Great Leighs. He's happy in himself and ready to run, but whether we will beat the William Haggas horse is open to debate. I would expect him to be first or second!"
Two-year-old Dulcie at third lot
Two-year-old Dazinski at third lot
Four Miracles and Steenberg (both set to run this weekend) with Sleeping
Tomorrow we will have Mark's 'Issue of the Week' and more pictures of the two-year-olds before the mass of runners on Saturday (at Ascot, Lingfield and Nottingham).
Wednesday 7th May
Mystery Star picking grass
The horses were having a quieter morning having done faster work yesterday.
Lough Diver
Mark and the racing chaplain walking back from watching the horses
Astrolibra picking grass
The older horses had a pick of grass after exercise (pictured above). And, the two-year-olds picked grass for the first time at second lot. "They all did well - it's important for the horses to relax, especially now the weather's good and the spring grass is coming through," said Mark. "I always love the horses to get 10 to 15 minutes of grass in them two or three times a week as it is good for the digestion, is great for their brains and they quickly get in to the routine of it."
Meanwhile back at the yard, Trawlerman, Peggle and Brathay had been swimming. Click here to see Brathay in action (video now removed). Mark added: "The pool is invaluable to us from April to October as there are plenty of horses that thrive from swimming - we mix combinations of exercise to include trotting, cantering, galloping, swimming and spending time on the walker, so every horse gets out and does several forms of exercise each day and most of them are out of their boxes two or three times a day."
Tuesday 6th May
Mark with Trew Style during the jockey change
"What a lovely morning!" said Mark with great enthusiasm. "There is no better place to be than out here with the horses - especially when they've worked as well as ours did. There were some sparkling pieces of work!"
The Guv'nor studying his list and talking to the riders
Bowder Stone, Smokey Oakey and Creative
Horses in action included Bowder Stone, Smokey Oakey, Creative, Sonny Sam, Kuriyama and Trew Style (all pictured) as well as Alan Devonshire, Yossi, Toparudi, Four Miracles, Gee Dee Nen and Inchpast.
Trew Style in action on the Al Bahathri
Sonny Sam and Kuriyama
No runners today, but this week we will have pictures from Dullingham Park Stud and video of horses swimming.
Monday 5th May
First lot walking in after exercise this morning
A warm, sunny bank holiday here in Newmarket.
"Marvo runs today at Windsor," said Mark. "He got very tired at Yarmouth on his first run back for a long time. He also pulled a plate off which didn't help. Today's race is very similar to last time, but I hope that there will be some early pace on which will help. He has improved for last time and, if the race goes to plan, he should be in the shake-up."
Astrodonna and Steenberg picking grass on Saturday morning
And on Saturday, first lot relaxed and picked grass while two-year-olds at second lot did some faster work on Railway Land. These included: Dazinski, Call It On, Balladiene, Mt Kintyre, Orthology, Outland, Top Tinker, Astrobrava, Cornish Rose and Royal Acclaim.
Doing some faster work with the two-year-olds on Saturday
"I was delighted with the youngsters on Saturday," said Mark. "They came in groups and it was a great education for them. Jimmy Quinn gave us all a fright at one point when he emerged on foot through the bushes like a gnome - he offered to join in and ride one, which he did."
And, there has been a grand review of the results from the Guineas Festival to see who fared best: Sunday was a dead-heat, but Saturday's results had the Guv'nor in front by a short head. "We did well - we gave everyone some winners!...And, Proponent - that was a good price!" could be heard by 'the two Marks' as they reviewed the results with some pleasure.
From last week...
Guineas Weekend 3rd & 4th May
Kinsya
"Just the one runner over the weekend," said Mark. "And it does depend on the ground. If it dries up and goes on the fast side he won't be running, but if it stays good he will take his chance and although I have got him as fit as I can at home, he will come on a tonne for the run.
Rowley Mile Racecourse will be bursting at the seams by this afternoon
Today we have our interview with Stephen Wallis, Managing Director at Newmarket Racecourses.
Mark added: "Stephen Wallis is a terrific addition to the HQ of British Horseracing. He has been in charge at Epsom for the last few years and overseen the improvements that are now going to put Epsom back on the map. My only hope is that the race itself can get back to being the pinnacle of achievement for the professionals in the game. With all the hyped-up overseas races on the agenda nowadays, people tend to overlook what a fantastic achievement it is to win a race like the Epsom Derby.
"Stephen will revolutionise Newmarket and get it back to what it should be. In fact, I have never known a Craven meeting with such atmosphere and everybody enjoying themselves so much. The only thing that was missing was terrestrial TV coverage, which I am sure will be rectified next year.
"He is one of those people who gets things done, is highly respected by everybody and can communicate with all the diverse characters in the industry. He has the backing of everybody - especially the Newmarket trainers. I wish him well with his first Guineas and the future!"
Your favourite time of the day: Morning - no question!
Your favourite time of year: Spring - everyone is optimistic.
Your favourite place: Cornwall
Your favourite book / author: 'Round America with the Boys' - the story of a father taking his sons on holiday in a winnebago.
If you were to star in a film, who would you be: The third Blues Brother! Surely the best musical film in the last thirty years.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up: A fireman, and then a film director.
Your favourite racehorse and why: Plovers Lane - the only horse I have owned a leg of. He was utterly useless, beating only one of over 70 rivals in his career. Ownership can only get better!
Your favourite racecourse and why: Salisbury. It has often been a lucky course for family-owned horses - although sadly not for a while! It is the only course at which we once had a family double.
Your best day’s racing: Nashwan's 2,000 Guineas - no competition.
Your main goal in life: To do my best and to maintain my principles and values.
Your proudest moment: When my eldest daughter passed a difficult exam that we weren't certain she would pass!
If you had one wish, what would it be: That my four children avoid drugs.
The following are tips for the Guineas Meeting from MHT and Mark Eglinton:
Saturday:
MHT: 2.10 - Perks; 2.45 - Heaven Sent; 3.25 - Raven's Pass; 4.00 - Genki; 4.35 - Kandahar Run; 5.10 - Dr Faustus; 5.45 - Bid for Glory
ME: 2.10 - Prime Exhibit; 2.45 - Heaven Sent; 3.25 - Dream Eater; 4.00 - Galeota; 4.35 - Kandahar Run; 5.10 - Drill Sergeant; 5.45 - Rayhani
Sunday:
MHT: 2.05 - Proponent; 2.40 - Dragon Dancer; 3.20 - Kitty Matcham; 3.55 - Zidane; 4.30 - Heliodor; 5.05 - Cruel Sea; 5.40 - Slugger O Toole
ME 2.05 - Gulf Express; 2.40 - Sixties Icon; 3.20 Kitty Matcham; 3.55 - Enticing; 4.30 - Desire to Excel; 5.05 - Dont Forget Faith; 5.40 - Slugger O Toole
And, anyone looking to join Flint Cottage Stables can now watch video of Mark with three of the fillies currently for sale on the Horses for Sale page.
Friday 2nd May
No Rules in action at first lot this morning
The horses have been out working on Racecourse Side at first lot.
Click here to see the Guv'nor give the final instructions to one of his riders (video now removed).
Azure Mist at second lot
Moon Lightning yesterday
"Don't ask about yesterday," said Mark. "I was very disappointed at Folkestone, where I know Astroleo is a lot better than he showed yesterday. I will be putting right what was wrong.
"I went on then from Folkestone to Great Leighs. My first visit.
"In fact, it was very easy to get there from the south and it is easy for all the Newmarket runners as well as it is nearly all motorway all the way. First impressions were that it is a wide-open place with plenty of room for expansion and development, but at the present moment in time it is a building site and accidents are waiting to happen. I hope there is a big improvement before the public are allowed to visit - the opening date is only two or three weeks away.
"To their credit the track and floodlights look marvellous. The weighing room complex is good and they have made an effort with the stables and lad's canteen. But everything else wants major investment and thought."
This weekend, we will have the interview with Stephen Wallis of Newmarket Racecourses as well as tips from both the Guv'nor and Mark Eglinton for the Guineas.
Thursday 1st May
Benedict Spirit
"A good day yesterday!" said Mark. "Our first runner, Blimey O'Riley, ran a terrific race to be second - he is such a lovely horse but is still learning at each outing. Force Group then went on to win for the second time this season, which was great news for all concerned as their patience has paid off. And finally Rajayoga ran his first race of the year and should now be on-song to get his head in front again soon once the ground firms up."
Astroleo
Two runners today: Astroleo at Folkestone followed by Benedict Spirit at Great Leighs this evening. Click here to see Astroleo being shod in preparation for his first run (video now removed).
Mark said: "Today we have our first two-year-old runner of the year. Have I gone mad having my first one in May! Similar comments as yesterday apply re. the soft ground, but we have a good jockey on top and he has been working nicely at home - albeit on perfect ground - so we are just hopeful of a good run. But, as you all know, my two-year-olds are not pushed too hard first time out.
"Then we have the delights of Great Leighs with wellingtons and overtrousers at the ready! Benedict Spirit has improved this spring - I think the step up in trip will suit - although the same comments could be mentioned for a few of these, but I am sure he will run a sound race."
In Newmarket it was drizzly and overcast early this morning, but thankfully not as bad as yesterday (pictured below in a downpour).
Mt Kintyre, Pertemba and Bertie Smalls with Call It On behind
Drum Dragon and Unnamed Medicean filly with Astrobrava behind
Click here to see them cantering in the rain (video now removed).
Tomorrow we have an interview with Stephen Wallis at Newmarket before the Guineas meeting this weekend.
Wednesday 30th April
First lot came up the grass on Warren Hill
"Three runners today, including our first runner at Great Leighs tonight in the 7.50pm," said Mark returning from first lot.
Mark out with first lot - picking grass after exercise
"Pontefract have had plenty of rain overnight and the ground is nearly verging on heavy.
"Blimey O'Riley runs on the mile and half handicap at 4.40pm - I think the handicapper has been very hard on him for what he has shown so far and whether he will like this really soft ground is very debatable. So, I will be learning a lot today as well as, I hope, the handicapper too.
"Force Group runs in the 5.15pm. It is the only race I can run him in now before he goes up six lbs, which again I think is an over-reaction from the handicapper after his win. It is a similar sort of race to last time and, if he handles this heavy ground, he should be thereabouts again.
"Rajayoga (pictured left) is ready for his first run of the year and I am sure will run well - but whether he is quite fit enough on this his debut for the year I am not too sure. The one thing I do know is that he is in great heart and will be spot-on after this - for when we happen to get some dry weather."
Tuesday 29th April
Mark walking in with the second group of workers at first lot
By third lot the black rain clouds arrived, but before then we enjoyed sunshine while working the older horses Across the Flat at first lot.
Mystery Star and Smokey Oakey
Click here to watch video of the workers setting off Across the Flat (video now removed).
Lord and Lady Lockey at Newmarket Racecourse, Craven Meeting
In the build-up to the Guineas this weekend, we have the first of Lord and Lady Lockey's 'Race Away, Stay Away' reports.
'Where to stay? Maybe at home! However there are loads of places in Newmarket to rest your head, the best is probably the Bedford Lodge Hotel. The only 4 star in Newmarket.
'Set in 3 acres of secluded grounds, is a combination of old and new. Originally a hunting lodge and was converted to a hotel after the war. Since then it has been greatly modernised, and very recently had a major refit, with a particularly avant-garde reception area.
'Has a restaurant –The Orangery, not my taste in food, but a comprehensive menu, both a la carte and table d'haute. If you have been to races, best to eat in the bar, excellent snacks and good value.
'The bedrooms are what you would expect in a 4 star, all en-suite, with the usual extras. Various rates, depending on time, best to try corporate rates, prices vary from £110 to £190.
'Also a health and fitness centre, with a huge array of "torture" machines to keep you fit! A good pool, with sauna and steam room, to get rid of the alcohol!
Things to do in Newmarket: Racing - obvious - and go on the gallops, Warren Hill 7am onwards; go to the Horse Racing Museum, well worth a visit. Play golf: Newmarket course is opposite the Rowley Mile Racecourse, and takes visitors without a member about £30 a round, good course kept in great condition, but always very busy. Walk the town - shops! But go to Tindalls on High Street, loads of books on racing, history of the Town etc.
'Where else to stay? Loads more:
'Garrads, boutique hotel, Old Station Rd. Am told it is very good;
'White Hart, pub type hotel;
'Rutland Arms, good bit old-fashioned atmosphere, but worth serious consideration;
'Heath Court Hotel, near gallops, fairly good, needs modernising, but nothing wrong with it.
'Great place to visit and find your way around, enjoy yourselves!'
For more reviews by Lord and Lady Lockey, click here for restaurants and pubs in and around Newmarket and click here for their review of Newmarket racecourse (racecourses listed alphabetically).
We will have more from the Guv'nor tomorrow with runners at both Pontefract and Great Leighs.
Monday 28th April
Ronan with Qilin
On Saturday morning we had a visit from the Whelan family.
"I am very lucky to have some great owners," said Mark. "Nothing gives me such a thrill as sharing my passion for horses with others. Last week I had visits from quite a few owners and I enjoyed every minute.
"Tom Whelan has a lifetime of experience in the racing industry. He is a great example to everybody of what hard work, enthusiasm and the love of horses can bring - and he and his wife have instilled the same in their son Ronan."
Champion jockey of the future, Ronan Whelan
Ronan is well-known on the pony-racing circuit in Ireland, especially following success when partnering Ice Dragon. Many may remember the filly when she was in training here, however she is relishing her new vocation. Ronan and his family were delighted to meet her dam, Qilin, who is based at Dullingham Park Stud, and were quick to point out the family similarities.
"Ronan may only be 15, but he's got all the makings of a true jockey - right weight, great with the horses, enthusiastic and a good work ethic. Firstly, he'll be champion apprentice from Flint Cottage!" added Mark.
Balladiene ridden by Ashley Morgan with the Guv'nor
The family currently have Balladiene in training in partnership with friends. Click here to watch video of her and Cornish Rose in action on Railway Land (video now removed).
If you are interested in joining a winning team as an owner, or part owner, give us a call. The number is 01638 661434.