Mixed results yesterday - Cupachai jumped like a bunny and went really well until the soft ground got the better of him and Velvet Steel (Tic) was completely overcome by her first time on a racetrack and just stood and watched as the flag dropped, rooted to the spot and took no part in the race. Dancer did her normal tailing herself off in the middle of the race but then ran on really well to finish 5th.
We were really disappointed with Tic as we knew if she actually got to the first fence she would love it and sure enough, we took her back to the track this morning with Lily, Bella and Jess and made it like a 'proper' race, circling around and then all starting together and she jumped a full circuit and a half with her ears pricked and absolutely winged every fence finishing really strongly up the home straight. We were delighted with the other youngsters as well, particularly Bella who for a four year old is really quite extraordinary. It is as though she has been here before the way she takes everything in her stride.

Tic, looking very beautiful before the occasion was all too much...!!