Newcastle

One runner down the road at Newcastle this afternoon, with FOREVA ALFIE (2.45) lining up in their two-and-a-half mile handicap hurdle. As we’ve said before, he’s been a slow burner because of a setback which kept him out for two years. 

Because of that, he’s catching up a bit so we gave him three quick runs during December. We’re still learning about him and he’s still learning about his job, so that’s why we’ve stepped him up in trip today because we’ve discovered he’s not quick enough for two miles. 

He’s bred to get this distance but he’s still a bit babyish due to lack of experience, so whatever he does this afternoon will only benefit him for the long-term. 

What we’re looking for today is finding out if this is the right trip for him. 

I won’t be racing today as I continue my recovery at home so Tony Dobbin is going to head down for us and will check the ground before racing because of Alfie’s past. 

As most of you who read our blogs regularly will know Dobbs is the ambassador for our new Racing Club so with me off my feet it’s great to have him around the place helping out. 

On the subject of the racing club, L’Insurge is gearing up to make his debut in a bumper in a few weeks’ time. 

We still have space in the Racing Club for anyone who is interested in joining us on this exciting journey, the details of how to get in touch are below.