Cornerstone Lad missed out on the defence of his 'Fighting Fifth' crown due to the unseasonably good ground at Newcastle last month, so he now he has his attention turned to chasing, something which was always intended at some stage of this season.
He will contest the 12.20.pm, the two miles Class 3 novices chase on his favoured heavy ground at Haydock Park this Saturday.To be fair the opposition look Class 3 quality, so Cornerstone Lad who is proven at the highest level on two occasions should have no problem putting this race to bed, but no one should think this is an easy introduction. Cornerstone Lad has schooled well at home, but that means very little when faced with the real thing on race day, so this will go a long way to tell us if his future lies over hurdles, or fences. Billy Garritty who sadly missed out riding him in the 'Fighting Fifth' will stand in for the injured Henry Brooke.
We are also doubly represented at Newcastle where Burdigala makes a quick return to action at 12.0.pm, just nine days after finishing last of the 11 here at Gosforth Park. He will run over the same course and distance of two miles, and from the same mark of 89, with Alain Cawley retaining the ride. On his French form back in 2018, he would have no problem getting competitive in this race, but since joining us, and racing on seven occasions, we are still waiting for that old spark to return.
Howzat Hiris will have her second start in the junior bumper at 3.25.pm, with Joe Colliver taking the ride.She made her debut at Wetherby two weeks ago when weakening from two out to finish sixth of the 12 runners, beaten by 34 lengths. This race is over an extra one and a half furlongs, as she continues her education.
To see a list of all the 87 horses currently in training at Oakwood Stables and Sharp Hill, go to www.mickyhammondracing.
Good luck to the connections, Mrs B M Lofthouse, Rosemary Hetherington And Partner, and Partner, and Sticky Wicket Racing.