Pat Eddery
ONLY 2lb, but being dropped in the ratings by that amount can open up new avenues for a horse, and Richard Hannon hopes it will be the case for Forgotten Wish, who runs in the opener at Lingfield today.
Hannon said: "That bit of leniency from the handicapper means that we qualify for this 0-75 nursery, and with Gary Mahon claiming an extra 5lb the filly, who has been running ok since she broke her maiden at Goodwood in August, looks to have a solid chance. Going back up in trip should not be a problem."
Middleham Park own Forgotten Wish, and they also have Battle Pride in tomorrow's curtain-raiser there. Hannon said:"He won well at Salisbury in August and has since been taking on the likes of Foundation, First Selection and Johannes Vermeer in better-class races, so, while this looks a competitive little novice, he must have a big shout, and snapping up Adam Kirby for the ride is certainly not a negative."
The Hannons were shocked to hear of the tragic death of 11-times champion jockey Pat Eddery earlier this week, and Richard snr recalled some great moments together with one of the all-time greats.
He said:"Pat rode some big winners for me, including Tirol in the Irish 2000 Guineas at The Curragh and Reel Buddy in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood.
"He was a fantastic rider and such a natural. You never saw a horse pull with him - he was always able to get them to relax and they said that he had anaesthetic running through his fingers. He was only 63 and it is such a shame."