For flat trainers all over the country November is a busy time breaking in yearlings, and we are no different - except we have a few less this year which has its benefits for all of us. Allen loves to break the babies in and bring them on and he does a sterling job, he is hugely knowledgeable and can 'read' them like an open book. Anna stepped in last year when Allen's broken shoulder stopped the job rather like rain does on Centre court, but she enjoyed it so much she has volunteered to take on another filly this year in between her office job as number one office manager, head buyer of biscuits for owner David Barker as well as being head of accounts for more than one business. She is some woman! AND she has to put up with me.
The cake that should have been ravaged by staff after George fell off Alfie hasn't materialized yet. I did search the pantry but failed to find any flour so will resort to buying one in time for Mondays tea break. In the meantime I am driving George mad making him re- live some amusing moments from his considerable time and experiences as a jockey. Our popular "Ann's thoughts" is doing really well (free to all owners of course) but I have promised some tales from racings rich political tapestry (which I am quite involved with) as well as tales from George and comments and opinions on current racing news, to help fill in the gaps in runners during the cold, dark winter nights.
This evenings first "tale" will make you laugh......