Good Morning Everyone,

As we didn't discuss who would do the race report this time, for the benefit of those members not in attendance, here is my offering:-

Tim and I arrived at the course relaxed and refreshed as on this occasion we had chosen a hotel just 6 minutes from the course, so unlike our last visit to Chester we had plenty of time in hand, and even managed to find the O/T car park with ease.

We made our way to collect our tickets where we met up with Dave, Peter and Christine, and whilst we were saying our hello's, were blessed with an impromptu downpour but unfortunately not enough to influence the going which was officially good to soft.

Dave, Denise, Peter and Christine had managed to secure a table for us all in the Owners Pavilion, and after a drink or two over discussions about both Horse's performances of late, we were joined by Stuart, Judy, Neil, Simon and Dani. The main topic of conversation was of course the up-coming race, and I think it's fair to say that the only concern was the unkind draw that Muffin had received yet again.

We all watched the first three races from various points at the track, and met up again in the parade ring, where we were joined by Kath, Bill and their Guests, and Andy and his God Daughter. Muffin quickly made his entrance from the pre-parade where he had been led sedately, but as ever, as soon as he made the transition from pre-parade to parade, his ears went up and he was ready to meet his public once more. It wasn't long before he was practicing his trademark left one two, right one two around the ring, but settled quickly. Fergus arrived and discussed race tactics with Stuart, and following Muffin's last few runs it seemed clear that he would need a target, so the plan was to get him out as quickly as possible and settle him behind one or two. After the usual 'Good Lucks', it was up to the stand to watch and wonder.

Our boy was the last to enter the stalls but did so without drama, and then they were off. The Kiddykid was first out next to Muffin in stall 11, but Muffin was close on his tail. As the race progressed, Fergus had Muffin settled in and he was never further than 4th from the start. On the last bend, he came up to take second place and was virtually level with the leader, but for the last furlong or so, the weight began to tell and he carried on at one pace, finally finishing 5th of 13.

We caught up with Stuart, Judy and Neil, and when Fergus and Muffin returned, Fergus said that he is a great horse, had run a great race, but unfortunately, in his own words 'the handicapper has got him by the goolies at the moment and the weight, coupled with the less than generous draw had told in the end'.!

To give some idea, the four horses in front were on the following weights, 9st 1lb, 8st. 12lb, 8st. 6lb, and 8st. 5lb, and Muffin was on 9st 7lb.

Hope I haven't missed anything.

Bye for now Jackie