The Woolston Ferry was a sort of floating bridge across the River Itchen in Southampton – in fact it might still be there for all I know as it is many years since I lived in that neck of the woods. I remember watching “You only live twice” at the old Woolston Cinema (that has probably gone) just up the road from the ferry – one of the better Bond theme songs nicely done by Nancy Sinatra. Anyway the horse Woolston Ferry, appropriately trained by the former hero of The Dell Mick Channon, carries top weight in the 4.50 at Lingfield. He has been gelded since his last rather disappointing run at Haydock. Based on some of his earlier placed efforts he comes into this race with a chance.
I have been following the progress of the 5 year old Charles Parnell all season but although he has ran well enough on occasions he is yet to record a win. He was second on his latest run at Newcastle and he is proving difficult to win with as he is going up the weights without actually getting his head in front. He runs in the Ayr 4.40 tomorrow where he has usually run well in the past. He has an each way chance.
Tighnabruaich won a Newbury maiden in April and then ran creditably when 4th at Chester before disappointing in a handicap at Haydock. He returns to action in the 3.30 at Great Leighs tomorrow after a break of 54 days over a trip of 14 furlongs. He is lightly raced and as his dam was a half sister to two Gold Cup winners he should appreciate the extra distance. If we ignore his last run as being too bad to be true he would ceratinly come into the reckoning here.
There is racing at Bellewstown and Tipperary in Ireland. Bellewstown, which is about 23 miles north of Dublin, has a strong connection with the great Arkle, as his dam, Bright Cherry, won the Drogheda Tradesman’s Chase there in 1950. Tipperary also has its claims to fame – not least that both Hawk Wing and High Chaparral won their maidens there.
Today’s picture is courtesy of the artist Karen Davies.
Bye for now
ahorse 