Southwell Races

Only one favourite managed to win on the sunny yet mild day at Southwell races, it was a good day for Fran Berry who had a treble. Not such a nice day for Robert Winston who despite having a winner in the first narrowly winning by a nose, picked up an excessive use of whip ban for 2 days.

The 1:35 was a sprint with all runners very closely bunched, with Razin' Hell only having a short lead over the rest of the field. The real competition became apparent with one furlong to go when Tilly Trotter, Razing' Hell and Kickboxer began to draw forward of the other runners. Kickboxer who had been dwelling in the rear drifted quite badly. When it came to the finish  Declan Carroll trained Tilly Trotter easily pulled clear of the chasing Razin' Hell and the momentum gaining Kickboxer, who is one to definitely watch next time out. Crosse Fire unfortunately kept on at the same pace. With Tilly Trotter in first place by a head, the second saw a dead heat between Kickboxer and Razin' Hell with Crosse Fire in fourth.

In the 2:10 Claiming Stakes the tiny field of four runners, Samtu lead the pack closely followed by Gabrial's Star and tracked by Bertie Moon and Iniesta. This stayed the same until the four furlongs marker when Samtu was pushed along but in less than next furlong was headed by Gabrial's Star whilst the rest of the field were starting to make an effort. With one furlong to go it was evident who was going to win as Gabrial's Star kept extending his lead making it look simple and easy. The rest of the field was being driven but Gabrial's Star was not going to be caught. First was Gabriel's Star who was eased down, by four lengths, second Samtu by a head, third was Iniesta and fourth Bertie Moon. None of these horses were claimed.

This was my last blog for this year, hopefully next year there will be even more great racing. So, Merry Christmas and a happy new year to all.