AMERICAN HOPE - 2nd in LISTED 32 RED SPRING CUP
American Hope ran his best race to date to go down by a fast diminishing head in the 32Red Spring Cup at Lingfield yesterday. He had been keen in his previous race at Lingfield and so jockey, Shane Kelly, steadied him at the start. He was a little keen again but Shane got him settled and he was always travelling well on the rail. As they came down the hill, which he handled better this time, he was switched right and made his effort. He was still a bit green but found his gears up the straight and was closing in on the winner but the winning post came too soon.
This was again an improved effort and we will see how he comes out of the race before we make further plans, However, he remains an exciting prospect for the turf season.
The photograph shows some of the connections in the Winners' Enclosure with Heidi Cullinan who rides him at home.

MUHDIQ - A WINNER
Muhdiq finally had things go his way for a change on Friday night at Wolverhampton running out a clear winner of the 5f feature race. He broke well from stall 4 and was very keen but Shane Kelly got him to settle in front and he galloped all the way to the line. We were delighted with his win as things had not gone his way in previous races and he definitely deserved the win.

DIVIDEND DAN -A WINNER
Dividend Dan broke his maiden tag at Wolverhampton on March 11th. Jockey, Shane Kelly, had "Dan" out in front all the way from start to finish and having dicatated a steady pace he quickened up 3f from home and held on by a short head from Final Delivery. He is still learning having had only 6 runs before his win and we hope he will improve a little with more experience.
The photograph (courtesy of Les Hurley) shows him with his head in front on the line.

BENANDONNER - A WINNER AGAIN

Benandonner recorded his second win for the yard in 2014 and he has now won seven races for the yard in his career. He looked beaten on the home turn but he loves a battle and having forced his way past Midnight Feast he managed to get to Hierarch in the final stages of the race. Even at the age of 11, Benandonner loves racing and although he doesn't have the same level of ability he tries his hardest which is great to see. He are up last night and enjoyed time in the paddock today.

American Hope - Star Spangled 2nd

American Hope (stable name, Yankee) ran an eye catching 2nd place in his first outing for the yard. Lingfield would not suit the horse but we had no choice but to go there as he can not run in a handicap until he has had his third run despite winning in Ireland. He struggled with the track but was able to find his feet up the straight but was not able to get to the winner, Ben Hall, who is a useful sort. American Hope is a big horse who should improve as he fills his frame and for a step up in trip. He is a very exciting prospect for the yard and hopefully he can compete at the highest level.
The photo shows him in the winners enclosure with Heidi, jockey and one if the owners, Robert Cooper.