UK Racing News.......Top Stories

Sherwood Talks Deputy Dan

Trainer Oliver Sherwood has said that Deputy Dan could be a 'serious contender' in the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, if the going is 'Soft'. The six-year old is a general 16/1 for the Neptune, although a decision on the shorter contest, or the Albert Bartlett, will not be made until much nearer the festival. 
Deputy Dan had picked up an injury when winning at Warwick but is back in training. 



Paul Nicholls Waits On The Weather Outcome

Paul Nicholls believes he has two well handicapped horses for the Betfair Hurdle on Saturday, in Irving and Irish Saint, but which one will run is all dependant on the weather. 
According to Nicholls, the more it rains, the better for Irish Saint, and the less likely that Irving will line up. 
On Monday, Nicholls said, 'Irish Saint relished the testing ground and hosed in at Ascot.' Nicholls also added, 'The handicapper raised him 12 lbs, but he only has a 5 lb penalty, so he's nicely in, and you can see why he's favourite (7/1).'


Morning Assembly Going Straight For RSA Chase

Morning Assembly will be heading straight for the RSA Chase says trainer Pat Fahy. Fahy said that it was always the plan to go from Christmas to Cheltenham, as not to over race him.
A Grade 1 winner over hurdles, Morning Assembly has continued to progress since being sent out chasing in Autumn, taking his first two races at 2m4f and 2m6f.

Then upped in trip to 3 miles, in the Grade 1 Topaz Novice Chase at Leopardstown in December, Morning Assembly was beaten in the final stages by Carlingford Lough. Despite this loss, Fahy believes that stamina is Morning Assembly's strong-point. 
Currently a 10/1 shot for the RSA Chase, and has been partnered with Ruby Walsh in his first three starts over fences, but no rider has been confirmed as yet.


Shock as 28 Year Old Lucy Stack Dies

The world of UK racing has been left in shock after hearing the news that 28 year old Lucy Stack had passed away. The winning owner and breeder died 'in tragic circumstances' on Sunday at her home near Cashel.
Lucy saw her pink and black colours carried to victory twice by the flat stayer Parkers Mills. She also bred Clenor, the prolific US miler. 
The families ask that they be left to grieve and people to respect their privacy at this very sad time.

Definitely taken from us too soon, thoughts go out to the families involved. RIP.


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