News 23 August 2008

 

Now flooding causes Redcar cancellation.

The incessant rain which has affected the north of england this week has claimed another victim. Following closely on York's cancellation, this evening's meeting at Redcar has also been lost to a waterlogged course.

Newcastle Inspect!

To determine the possibility of going ahead with the fixture planned for Monday 25 August, Newcastle officials are to undertake an inspection of the High Gosforth Park course today. Much of the course is waterlogged, and even if racing is given the go-ahead, racing on the round course will not be possible. Therefore, the race programme will have to be altered to provide races over the straight mile course.

Sheikh seeks Fabre Chantilly base.

It is now common knowledge, Sheikh Mohammed is trying to acquire the former Rothschild stable at Chantilly, currently occupied by top french trainer Andre Fabre.

It seems the Sheikh is moving into France with the same development plans as those undertaken in Australia, and the former Rothschild stable is seen as an ideal venue for his proposed french racing operation.

Controversy still rages over Great Leighs incident.

Despite the continuing insistance by the starter, it was not a stalls malfunction which prevented Jack Junior from competing in the Conditions Stakes at Great Leighs on Thursday, many people still disagree, and a full report on the incident has now been requested by the BHA.

Lynch American rumours.

Fergal Lynch, the jockey at the centre of the recent Panorama allegations of race fixing, is said to be considering a move to race riding in the USA.

Possible temporary reprieve for Tralee.

Kerry County Council have rejected the first draft plans submitted by the property development firm who have acquired the current Tralee racecourse.

This opens the possibility of some of next year's fixtures still going ahead, but this will be dependant on how soon revised plans can be submitted and approved by the council.

Chapple Hyam misery continues.

Peter Chapple Hyam has had a miserable season. Apart from disappointing results from his horses in training, he has seen owners remove horses from his yard. This trend continued yesterday, when it was announced Cheveley Park Stud are to remove their clutch of two year olds due to, 'a break down in communications'.