Yesterday. Still not exactly flaming July down here on the southern Riviera. No runners yesterday. So in mid afternoon I found myself at Fordingbridge Sports Ground, bowling at Barney Baker. In steady drizzle. Steady drizzle that would normally prevent one from bowling at Barney Baker on Fordingbridge Sports Ground. But "steady drizzle" almost a result in this summer of all summers....
Jeremy Gompertz, and Patrick and Marina Milmo with us mid morning. To see Waspy and the unnamed Notnowcato 2-year-old canter. Monday mornings a "steady" one on the gallops. A bit more action in a minute. George Baker and Boomshackerlacker about to breeze up the grass ahead of possible engagements later in the week....
The Newmarket July meeting nearly upon us. And we plan to send a few up to HQ. One of the finest meetings of the year, especially if the sun shines. Boomshackerlacker, Belgian Bill, Place In My Heart, Jakes Destiny and Jacks Revenge all possibles. The juggling of jockeys has already begun. As The Racing Post noted yesterday, this is going to be a phenomenally busy Saturday, with jockeys being pulled in all directions. Important to try and get sorted early, although jockey's plans are often prone to last minute change....
At the moment, Pat Cosgrave will ride Boomshackerlacker wherever he goes. Ryan Moore is booked for Jacks Revenge. And Richard Hughes for Belgian Bill. This could all change over the next 24 hours....?!
Fiftyshadesofgrey. A very positive conversation with the publisher yesterday. The name reserved, as mentioned by Hayley Turner in her column yesterday. Thinking along the lines of a girls syndicate and a grey colt. Early days, but should be a fun tale. I now need to read the books (all three names reserved). Purely for research purposes. Obviously....
Two runners today. Missus Mills at Wolverhampton. Final Delivery to Southwell. An allweather double header. Both head off with each way chances....
Today's photo. Tallulah aboard the mighty Martyr. Who is on the comeback trail after a year on the sidelines.... 
