Mid seasons reflections

Hopes of ending the year on a high were somewhat dashed on Tuesday when neither Eternally Yours nor Lady Villanelle were able to fulfill their intended engagement in respective races. Due to the unsuitable ground conditions, we decided not to risk either horse.
Shame, as both would have won. What........?

One horse that did run this week was Stainsby Girl at Catterick on Monday. Just 3rd place but a return to a near-best after her below par run at Wetherby previously. Maybe a step up in trip (she did seem more settled this time) or we can search around for a suitable mares-only race next time.

Mid season for the 2020-21 National Hunt sphere, although that's a bit of a stretch for Dodlands Steading as from our first runner this barely covers 2 months.
Nevertheless, as usual we've taken stock and reflected on our NH performance thus far in the knowledge that we'd like to think our horses will be running through until late Spring.

We're fairly happy with the performances though 2 or 3 more winners would have been nice. You can read our mid season article right here.

Ayr on Saturday

Quieter time for the yard than is normal around new Year but we have a declaration  at Ayr on Saturday, 2nd January

Baby Ticker goes in the extended 3m handicap hurdle at 2.40pm. She ran her best race ever last time at this track but now takes both a step up in trip and grade for this Class 2 contest. It's an open handicap (0-150 rated race) (Baby Ticker's mark is 121) and we'd like to think she's in with a chance but it obviously will be a competitive event.

Dual course and distance winner Justatenner will be fancied as will a couple of Southern raiders, the lightly raced Illegal Model and Laura Morgan's progressive Big Penny.

Our stable amateur Connor Wood had a couple of rides for co-employer Brother Ali at Kelso the other day - both were placed - and he has quickly formed a good partnership with our veteran mare. Best of luck to both horse and jockey!

And finally, all the best for 2021!

Wishing you, and those closest, all the very best for 2021.

Baby Ticker and Our Elsie