To be a top class stayer on the flat, or a top class jumper, you need speed as well as stamina, but when you have guts, and the will to win as well, you have the perfect racehorse.
Cornerstone Lad is the best horse Micky has ever trained, he won the prestigious 'Fighting Fifth' Grade 1 hurdle at Newcastle 11 months ago, and probably bettered that in the 'Unibet' hurdle Grade 1 when giving weight and finishing a 3/4 length third at Haydock in January.
At Redcar this afternoon he stripped a lot fitter than he did 31 days ago at the same track. Billy Garritty attempted to make all, and the horse was clearly enjoying himself, racing enthusiastically, but what was impressive, was that when he came under pressure, fully two furlongs from home, and after being headed, he showed immense courage to fight his way back to the front, (rewarding those who backed him at 40/1+ in running.)
Cornerstone Lad will now be spot on for his jumping campaign, which could well be the defence of his 'Fighting Fifth' crown, or the start of his novice chase career.
A review of our seven runners on Thursday will be on the website from midday tomorrow.