Well what an utterly incredible day! Firstly we (myself and two friends) were treated to breakfast at a local pub (2 full English, 1 eggs benedict) then to the yard for second and third lot. No Paul as he was off shooting in Yorkshire but we were greeted by one of his assistants, Charlie and then shown the main yard - yes I met No Drama, yes I fell in love with him, yes I wanted to take him home.....
Then the secretary drove us up to the top of the hill - it was a spectacular view with the sun over teh frosty ground and views to die for and the horses appearing over the hill. Paul's father arrived in his car and introduced himself and then we went back to the yard where we were allowed to wander around freely.....and wander we did!! Met all the horses possible. And I couldn't believe - not one horse was grumpy or put their ears back. Such happy, chilled horses. It was quite remarkable. Incredibly friendly staff all who chatted with us and answered 9,000 questions.
Third lot was (driven by head lad Clifford Baker who was great) on the round gallop down the bottom behind Paul's house and then we looked at the schooling facilities and I paid a visit to:
Outmaster who is on the easy list having got a small hairline fracture. BUT both the assistant and Clifford like him a lot and think that a couple of easy months, will really help him as he's quite a tall horse who will benefit from a bit of maturing. They really do like him and said although it's a small setback, it's nothing they are worried by.
Then we went to Wincanton Races where we were given badges which included hospitality in his private box (right opposite the winning line) and given coffee, lunch, wine - the full works. Paul's current lady was there and she looked after us - very nice woman who used to be an event rider - she's also a more appropriate age than the last one!! I managed to back the first winner on the Tote so that paid 20s, a third in the third and then the winner of the bumper. I should have backed Western Soldier as I had noted it down but I don't like the owner....duh! So I left it.
Have taken loads of photos so will stick up here tomorrow once my camera battery has recharged.
All in all a completely amazing experience. We were not expected to be treated so berludy well! It was an absolute treat from sunrise to sunset!
but if anyone wants any info (can't say it will be genuine but we are in the hands of the assistants rather than his lordship so they might be easier to probe info out of!)
