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Yes Grayson, Ascot looks to have several portables now – I despair!
Aintree looks the sensible option for the Lancashire chase.
Do you think they’re working on a portable Bechers?
I am a fan of Fair Along and as the opposition in the Arkle does not look that strong I think he can still lead all the way (as he almost did in the even more competitive Triumph last year).
As for Denman, what has he got to beat? Solzen looks bound to go for Arkle or (better) the Ryanair.
I share the general doubts about BJK (will he even turn up?)
PS – Detroit City a shoe-in. Irish rivals all elderly and in decline except, possibly, Jazz Messenger.
Agree grayson – excellent article by Lydia Hislop, even if she was far too charitable. I thought Tellwright had argued that the portables were for "equine welfare" purposes? If so, he seems to have changed his tune.
Thought the Swan suggestion was a wind up! Why would Ruby NOT be available – has Rigmarole been supplemented?
I agree with you Swallow on the ground, but I think that this, more than the fences, explains the small fields. I must admit, though, that I have never been to Haydock (am from Belfast), but my impression from TV is that there are relatively few fallers at the course. I have never felt that the fences look particularly stiff, compared to say Cheltenham or Ascot a few years ago, although the drops are tricky. I just fear that if drop fences are seen as unacceptable, what chance is there for Aintree?
Thanks Aragorn. Just felt compelled to contribute after watching the De Vere Gold Cup – was hard to tell the fences from the brush hurdles!
Very interesting thread this. I haven’t read the RP article, but there seems to be general agreement that Haydock’s decision has been driven by economics.
Haydock is one of many courses where the fences seem to have become progressively smaller/softer in recent years. Newbury hasn’t offered much resistance since the late 70s, Kempton/Newcastle fences are now pretty appalling and Ascot doesn’t look as formidable since the alterations. Even Cheltenham (what have they done to the ditches?) is a shadow of its former self. Apart from Wetherby/Wincanton, is there a "stiff" jumping track left?
I am old enough to remember the days (in the 60s and 70s!) when "soft" fences were almost the exception, rather than the rule. I even remember Doncaster having really tough fences. No one should have any quibble about the importance of equine welfare, but populating courses with portables does not address that issue at all.
Dark days for NH racing – wonder what Ginger McCain thinks of Haydock now?
