From Leicester to Ayr: A Weekend of Mixed Fortunes
Sadly, it wasn’t to be for Phoenix Of Dreams at Ayr on Saturday as our lovely boy was declared a non-runner after becoming unsettled in the stalls, whilst Greek Symphony was in action at Leicester on Sunday where she battled on gamely to finish third!
Phoenix of Dreams reared up after being loaded and his jockey quickly dismounted to make sure both horse and rider were safe. Once that had happened, the rules meant that he was unable to take his place in the race and unfortunately his afternoon was over before it had really begun.
It appears the situation may have been triggered by a change to his usual loading routine. Rather than having his hood fitted before entering the stalls, it was left for his jockey to put it on once he was inside. Unfortunately, he became upset and reacted before everything had a chance to settle.
WATCH: Dougie Costello discusses Phoenix of Dreams' disappointment.
It was hugely disappointing, particularly as we had all been so excited to see him back on the racecourse after his summer break but the most important thing is that Phoenix of Dreams, his jockey and everyone involved came away safe and unharmed.
As a result of what happened, he will now need to complete a stalls test before he is cleared to race again. Hopefully that will prove to be nothing more than a small bump in the road and we can get him back on track before too long.
These things happen with horses and sometimes even the best-laid plans don't quite work out on the day. Phoenix of Dreams is absolutely fine and that's what matters the most.
We live to run another day and we'll be looking forward to seeing our lovely Phoenix Of Dreams back where he belongs very soon.
Greek Symphony Hits the Right Notes at Leicester
In other news Greek Symphony produced another hugely encouraging performance at Leicester yesterday, battling all the way to the line to finish a very close third.
Our lovely filly travelled well through the race and showed a great attitude when things began to get serious in the closing stages. She kept finding right to the line and was only narrowly denied, with very little separating the leading trio at the finish.
Whilst it was frustrating to come so close, there was an awful lot to like about the performance. Greek Symphony continues to gain valuable experience with every run and once again showed that she has both ability and a willingness to battle when asked.
WATCH: Mason Paetel discusses Greek Symphony's Third Place at Leicester.
A third-place finish perhaps doesn't quite do her run justice and everyone can take plenty of encouragement from another strong effort and a close call.
Most importantly, Greek Symphony has come through the race well and we're already looking forwards to see how she runs on Friday as she heads to Epsom in the 17:30. On the evidence of this performance, there should be plenty to hope for. Stay Tuned!
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