Improved Hurdles Third For Annabelle

Despite schooling well at home, Princess Anabelle had jumped very slowly and deliberately when disappointing on her first two hurdle outings at Newton Abbot. We decided to put some blinkers on her and with new jockey Mark Quinlan gaining some confidence on her by schooling at the yard, she posted a much improved effort when third on Monday. Ridden handily, she jumped much better and travelled strongly in the blinkers before she was headed three out. She stayed on determinedly and was only beaten nine lengths and ran up to her solid bumper form. The handicapper has rated her 96 which is high enough, so we may keep her to Mares Novices for the time being.

Icebuster hasn't had much luck this season and he got no run whatsoever at Windsor on Monday evening. He settled quite nicely in the early stages off a steady pace but the field were still well bunched entering the home straight and he saw no daylight up the inside until it was too late. He stayed on well for fourth and confirmed he's in rude health and he can win races off 86.