Jonah Lomu Birthday Update

With a Clondaw Robin element to the update, it seemed appropriate to comment what would have been the late Jonah Lomu’s 50th birthday today.

Two runners went to the season finale ay Plumpton, and two very pleasing, but also agonising, efforts were accrued. First up was FLEMEN’S TIPPLE, who bounced back splendidly from his burst blood vessel issues to post a problem-free second. He had seemed back to his happy best at home and it was good to see that repeated on the track. The agony came from the fact that he was only beaten a short head, and that is the fifth time that he has been second in a Plumpton staying hurdle, and the third instance of the loss being less than a length. Half an hour later, CLONDAW ROBIN had 90% of the race that would be perfect for him, with only two opponents, both of whom were going to let him go off in front at his own comfortable pace. Alas, the 10% element that was slightly off was that it was a two and a half miler, not the 2m 1f that suits best at Plumpton, and Robin was just outstayed in the end, picking up second yet again. He had the winner hard at work on the home bend, but when that horse managed to scrap his way alongside, the outcome was sadly predictable.

Flemen’s Tipple returns to acclaim from his loyal followers.

And shortly afterwards, Clondaw Robin rues the one that got away…

There is some arrival news too. BACKINFORGLORY has had a filly foal by Stradivarius. Picture below, unfortunately from when the youngster was taking a quick nap and Mum was on guard duty.

We also have a couple of recent retirees to report. SURREY NEMESIS was failing to put in the hard work at the end of races, even when tried in headgear, so her racing career is over. We are looking to rehome her, and she would do a job as an eventer. Due to ongoing inability to withstand full training, BE FAIR has also been retired and is on the lookout for a new home.