Good and bad news on the mares. Baldovina has been scanned in foal to Red Clubs. Park Acclaim was scanned in foal to Kyllachy, but has re-absorbed the foetus . It’s not uncommon – she needs to be covered again now. Shawhill has been covered by Selkirk and we wait to hear the result.
Astrodome is well and runs on either Saturday or next Tuesday. Tifernati is progressing but has not come in his coat and will not be out for at least a month. Max One Two Three is still on for a run in the Cammidge and goes to Lingfield today for more racecourse prep.
Lilac Moon makes her long awaited comeback today. She had an injury at the back end of last year, but it looks as if there are no lasting effects. Nicky is very happy with the way she has progressed physically since her last run – he says she has really thickened and looks more like a colt than a filly now. She seems to be as keen as ever and the extra bulk hasn’t restricted her.
The main concern today is fitness. Nicky has been working her hard at home and she’s done everything she’s been asked, but she’s still blowing quite hard after work and he thinks she’s going to take more getting fit now she’s filled out.
On the plus side she’s drawn 1, which is perfect. We know she handles the course and distance, and 10f wouldn’t normally stretch her stamina. She’s quite competitive and generally gives all she has to give. I am concerned that she might be too stuffy and will be short of her best, but I think she is better than this grade now and with any luck she’ll show them a clean pair of heels.