HIGHCLERE RACING’S WEEKLY NEWS
8/11/2022
That is a wrap on the Melbourne Cup Carnival and what an eventful couple of weeks it was. As everyone was gearing up for the Melbourne Cup pre-events, news broke that Durston had unfortunately been ruled out of running in the race. With many owners, including Harry himself already on a plane it was time to turn the disappointing news around and although he didn't get the chance to compete in the big race, he has won a Caulfield Cup, something no one can take away from him.
As is the case with Cup Week there was wining and dining but it was lovely to have a mix of both Australian and UK owners as guests on Derby Day. Monday night it was nice to welcome even more Highclere owners to a function at Mr Hive at Crown. With the Caulfield Cup present, we heard from Harry and Chris about the excitement of winning the race and Harry’s experience of trying not to wake his mother-in-law up while cheering him home.
The attention then turned to Cup day itself and although Durston wouldn’t be making his way to the track, the rain held off enough to allow Bartholomeu Dias to line up in the listed Furphy Plate, the race before the Melbourne Cup. Tommy Berry gave him a lovely run in transit and the old stalwart stormed down the outside to claim victory. It was such a thrill for all the owners but a great experience for Harry Herbert after travelling halfway around the world to witness the thrill of winning at Flemington. A big congratulations once again to all the owners and special thanks to Tommy Berry for a terrific ride and Annabel Neasham and her team for the wonderful work they have done to bring Bart back to his best.
Olympic Theatre also lined up on Cup Day at Randwick in the Little Dance but found the 1600m too short. Richard and Will Freedman were still happy with the performance but will look to step him up in distance.
The week rounded out with Great House on the final day of the carnival but after a preparation full of bad luck we didn’t see the real Great House, and although he was gallant and tried his best we will wait to see if he races on or goes out for a spell to return in the Autumn with hopefully a little more luck on his side.
We look forward now and wait to see what the immediate future holds for Durston and Great House. In the meantime, we have Olympic Theatre to look forward to as he gets out over a more suitable distance and it won’t be long until Highland Cathedral and Armaggeddon make their mark on the track as well as import Hint of Stars.
It has certainly been an exciting few months for Highclere Racing Australia and it only looks to continue. Not part of the Highclere team and want to be, email info@highclereracing.com.au