🏇 Manager’s Thoughts – Newcastle Runners (Thursday)

The jumps season is well underway, and today we head to Newcastle with three runners across the afternoon’s card. It promises to be a busy and exciting day for the team, and with around 30 owners on course, the atmosphere should be fantastic for a Thursday meeting.

1:08 – De Deli Counter (Mark Walford / Jamie Hamilton)

Our first runner of the day is De Deli Counter, trained by Mark Walford and ridden by Jamie Hamilton.

He’s a horse who is continuing to learn with every run and is starting to show a better understanding of the game. The team have been pleased with his attitude and progress at home, and this looks another good opportunity for him to gain experience.

A clean round of jumping and a solid finish in mid-division would represent a positive step forward. He’s definitely one to keep improving as the season develops.

1:08 – Marhaba The Champ (Sophie Leech / Danny McMenamin)

Also lining up in the same race is Marhaba The Champ, trained by Sophie Leech and partnered by Danny McMenamin.

He’s an interesting recruit from the flat, where he held a high rating, and if he can transfer that ability to hurdling, he should have a big chance. The favourite brings form from Jersey, which can be tricky to weigh up, but Marhaba The Champ has been schooling well and is expected to run a bold race on his jumping debut.

A smooth, confident round of jumping could see him right in the mix.

2:38 – Chasingouttheblues (Mark Walford / Jamie Hamilton)

Our final runner of the afternoon is Chasingouttheblues, another trained by Mark Walford with Jamie Hamilton taking the ride.

He’s a horse the yard hold in very high regard, and today’s trip and track should play to his strengths. The only question mark is the ground, which we’ll be monitoring closely throughout the day to ensure it’s safe and suitable.

He’s a likeable, talented type and, if things fall right, he should be capable of putting in a strong performance.

Manager’s Thoughts

It’s great to see the jumping season in full flow once again, and days like this highlight the depth and excitement within the Ursa Major Racing team. Having three runners and such a strong owner turnout on a weekday is fantastic, and we’re looking forward to another competitive afternoon.

Best of luck to all our owners, trainers, jockeys, and connections — and to everyone heading to the races today, we hope you have a brilliant day out.

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