Hopes of a Win for Westie at Wincanton Wander

On Thursday 8th March we headed to Wincanton for the 3m1f Smarkets Novices' Handicap Chase with Clondaw Westie feeling hopeful for a good run from the talented gelding. We hadn't had the most ideal preparation for the race the previous week, but had managed to stick to the exercise plan for Westie. Aidan Coleman's quiet nature of riding is perfect for this highly-strung gelding, and the pair have formed a solid partnership. The horse was jumping exceptionally and travelling too well, tracking the leaders to avoid exposure, when he got in tight at the last fence with a circuit to go and stumbled on landing, giving Aidan no chance. We were absolutely gutted for Aidan, the loyal owners, and the horse as he looked the pick of the field before heading out into the country for the last time. Luckily both horse and jockey walked away absolutely fine (a huge relief for Aidan with Cheltenham this week). Aidan said to drop him back in trip allowing him to settle better at a quicker pace next time out, so that is the plan!

Westie enjoying the sun post race without a scratch on him