Blacklister continues to provide some excellent sport - a horse that cost next to nothing compared to Japan prices (just over 5,000,000 yen in 2014), and has already run 19 times in the last year to pick up a 1-7-1 record so far. I'll spell that, because the JRA-related folks will assume it's a typo - not once, or even nine times (itself an unlikely figure in circles where three runs a year is all too common), NINETEEN. And I guarantee, he wouldn't go near a track if there was any question over his health, as I know how caring and professional Mick's stables are. Tired and in need of a three-month break after running six furlongs is pure bull - 'Bugatti' did a lot more work than that on Saturday and was bouncing off the walls wanting to do the same the next day, and he's not even on a racing diet any more! How on earth JRA trainers have got away with pulling the wool over people's eyes for so long is beyond me. Or maybe it's not that big a surprise, knowing the score. Anyway, last night saw Blacklister finish a strong second against a class pony, and watching some of his videos before the race simply brought home how much pleasure I get from the Mick Channon string - that horse, whether he was first or close to last, was given his best chance and gave his all in the heat of battle. No stupid excuses, no need for 'retraining' between races, just the thrill of pure sport. This is what racing is all about - a win is simply a bonus...
PS. Infinity Love is supposed to resemble a racehorse, at last, and is being lined for a mile turf race on the 28th, which is fine. It's even a bit exciting given that the Yahagi disaster is over and a new page has been turned. The problem is going to be getting a berth, for we can guarantee a prime race like that will be oversubscribed. At least we have some more UK runners to come in the week, Raining Dollars in Oz tomorrow, and Pop Label on Friday.
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