The Jumps Season Closes – But Ursa Major Is Just Getting Started
As the curtain begins to fall on the National Hunt season, all eyes turn to Sandown this weekend for the thrilling conclusion of the Trainers’ Championship battle between Willie Mullins and Dan Skelton. But while the jumps action reaches its crescendo, things are only just heating up for Ursa Major Racing.
Since our last blog, we’ve had a busy few days—and even more to come. Following the initial decision to retire Kalganov, plans have now changed. After a detailed review of his recent run by jockey Connor Beasley and trainer Michael Dods, it was agreed that it would be premature to call time on his career so soon after undergoing wind surgery. Most horses take a few runs to see the benefits of such a procedure, so Kalganov will now be entered for a race at Ayr next week. We’re looking forward to seeing him back in action with renewed promise.
This week we also saw Bay Dream Believer head to Beverley, turning out just eight days after her encouraging debut. Trainer Mark Walford and her owners were keen to get her back on track, and she didn’t disappoint. Under a positive ride from Rhys Elliott, she found a great position early. The race was cleverly controlled from the front by Joe Fanning aboard the favourite, and unfortunately the tempo didn’t play to Bay Dream’s strengths. But in true warrior fashion, she dug deep and battled home for an excellent third place, just a length and a half behind the winner. Her first win can’t be far away!
At Doncaster, it was Beltane’s turn. The beautiful setting was matched by a strong performance from our boy, who looked a picture in the paddock and ran off a handy mark. He went straight to the front and stole a couple of lengths early, gamely fending off all but one rival to finish second, rewarding each-way backers at decent odds. He’s coming to the boil nicely and is another we expect to see in the winner’s enclosure very soon.
Today, we’re excited to kick off the new season for May Blossom, who returns without her usual blinkers and takes on a field of 3-year-olds while carrying top weight. It’s a tough ask, but the Camacho team have a strategy in place. She’ll come on for the run, but we wouldn’t be at all surprised to see her launching a late challenge.
We also have Tarlac running for the ever-excellent Katie Scott. After showing signs of promise at a big price last time out, he returns with Paul Mulrennan retaining the ride. The conditions are starting to swing in his favour, and the team are hopeful of a strong step forward today.
With a packed weekend of runners ahead and over 60 Ursa Major owners expected on course, this really feels like the beginning of our flat season in earnest. We’ve had our fair share of silver medals lately—but rest assured, the golds are coming!
Stay tuned and, as always, thank you for your continued support.
