Manager’s Thoughts – June 7th

We’ve got a busy day across two meetings, with runners at both Musselburgh and Hexham, and there’s plenty to look forward to.

Jumeira Vision lines up in the 4.55 at Musselburgh under Sam James. This is the time of year when he usually comes into his own, and now back down to a workable handicap mark, we’re hopeful of a strong run. The only slight concern is whether the sharp mile at Musselburgh might catch him out, but if Sam can get him out smartly and into a good rhythm, we think he can go very close.

Over at Hexham, we have Huit Reflets and Suitably Surprised both lining up in the 4.05, an amateur riders’ contest.

Huit Reflets should come on nicely from his seasonal return and, although it’s an amateur race, we’ve got a capable rider in Paddy Barlow on board. With 16 runners, it’s a competitive field, but we’re looking for him to finish in the top four or five before he switches to chasing in the near future.

Suitably Surprised is in a similar boat – she needed the run last time and will definitely benefit from that outing. With James King in the saddle – who some would say is the strongest jockey in the field – and the ground offering a bit of cut, which she’ll appreciate, we’re hoping for a top five finish here as well.

Later on, Glory And Honour returns to hurdles in the 6.20 at Hexham, taking on a decent little field headed by the strong favourite, Surrey Belle. That said, if Jonny can get Glory into his rhythm and back to his best, he’s more than capable of winning this. We’re optimistic of a bold run, and at the very least, we’d be disappointed if he’s not in the top three.

Best of luck to all connections today – let’s hope for a strong showing across the board!