We didn’t quite manage to win the valuable Class 1 Premier Handicap Chase at Aintree on Saturday but it wasn’t for the lack of trying.
Our three runners all finished in the money with veteran Sam Brown, who won the same race two years ago, staging a stirring late run that came within a length of snatching victory.
Forward Plan was just behind him in third place while Kilbeg King collected £1,330 for finishing sixth.
The prize money the trio earned from the race took the total won by our horses this season past £700,000 which is by some way a record for the yard.
Sam Brown ran an amazing race. He is always likely to hit a flat spot against younger rivals so it wasn’t a surprise to see him drop out out of contention on the final circuit. I felt he had no hope of winning at that stage but once he turned for home he took off and flew.
He has had a busy season by his standards and could run once more in the bet365 Gold Cup but that depends on how he comes out of the race.
Forward Plan has had a brilliantly rewarding campaign and put up another big performance before the final furlong just stretched his stamina.
He is dangerously handicapped in these types of races. He has earned a decent holiday out to grass and could return in the Badger Beer Chase at Wincanton if the ground is suitable.
Given that Kilbeg King was let down by his jumping he wasn’t beaten that far. It’s frustrating that he still hasn’t won over fences but he has been running to a consistent level, has picked up £45,000 in prize money and remains a novice for next season.
Meanwhile we have the option of taking him back to Punchestown for the handicap hurdle he won in style last year.
Finally congratulations must go to one of our long-time owners Ron Huggins who with his friend George Tiney bred I Am Maximus, impressive winner of the Grand National.
And just had the winner of Something Special at Plumpton, you are flying Cuz
Fabulous!! Well done to you all!! What a season you are having.