MEHMAS had his final start for Richard in the Middle Park Stakes on Saturday at Newmarket. Having been so consistent all year, he let no one down in what was a competitive race to finish third. ‘He didn’t finish out of the placings all year and he has been a real stable star. He was a pleasure to train and has guts and determination that exceed most other horses. I wish him all the best with his new career at stud where I envisage he will be a big success. The speed he showed and the battle hard technique in which he went about his finishes will stand him in great steed to be a real hit at Tally Ho Stud.’
On the same day at Doncaster a potential new star was revealed in the shape of BARNEY ROY. The debutant by Excelebration travelled very sweetly throughout and was mightily impressive when Sean pushed the button. ‘He is a horse who showed plenty early on but he had a little set back which has really helped him to grow and fill out into his frame. He is a lovely big horse and I haven’t done a whole lot with him at home. I was expecting him to need it a little bit but his class prevailed and the time of the race was quick. He will improve plenty for that run and I can see him being a upper horse for next year. He has no fancy entries this year so I will just wait and see before planning his next run.’
Today at Bath there are two runners from the Hannon yard, with FAST AND HOT in first time blinkers and SWIFT MOVER. ‘Fast and Hot with the blinkers on first time should be much improved as he likes to hold back a little bit for himself. He has been the model of consistency in his last few runs and I can see him going very close again today. The filly won well at Salisbury and I think we can forget her last start. This should suit her ideally and I can see her in the first three.’