Harry ran appallingly. He was off the bridle after the first circuit and then started to crash through his hurdles so Charlie pulled him up. We are scratching our heads as we know he is fit enough and could normally easily stay at least three miles. They weren't going too fast and he was having no problems keeping up with them until the second circuit when he uncharacteristically came off the bridle. Charlie gave him a couple of reminders which unusually didn't get any response. I am convinced that he has got the same bug as Red who crawled up the gallops this morning whereas normally she is difficult to hold and Doris was unusually quiet as well. Oaka and Shade have both had the cough and although they are in separate stables away from the main yard they all go out together in adjoining fields so I am sure something is going around. We will get them blood tested in the morning and try to get to the bottom of the problem. I have never had 'the virus' before, and often thought it was perhaps a trainers excuse when horses simply aren't running well enough, but now feel full sympathy for high profile 'proper' trainers who have had the virus in the past and have disappointed owners, punters and the media hassling them for answers. Training horses isn't easy at the best of times without nasty 'germs' lurking around!
Will had done evening stables when we got back which was a wonderful luxury.
I spoke to Jay today in New Zealand, she is getting on really well but looking forward to getting home now. She is back on the 9th. Its really hot out there and the grass is browned off. Summer seems a long way off at the moment....