Memories of Pat and a look ahead to the Middleham Park Lingfield duo

Fri 13 November 2015

Pat Eddery

ONLY 2lb, but being dropped in the ratings by that amount can open up new avenues for a horse, and Richard Hannon hopes it will be the case for Forgotten Wish, who runs in the opener at Lingfield today.

Hannon said: "That bit of leniency from the handicapper means that we qualify for this 0-75 nursery, and with Gary Mahon claiming an extra 5lb the filly, who has been running ok since she broke her maiden at Goodwood in August, looks to have a solid chance. Going back up in trip should not be a problem."

Middleham Park own Forgotten Wish, and they also have Battle Pride in tomorrow's curtain-raiser there. Hannon said:"He won well at Salisbury in August and has since been taking on the likes of Foundation, First Selection and Johannes Vermeer in better-class races, so, while this looks a competitive little novice, he must have a big shout, and snapping up Adam Kirby for the ride is certainly not a negative."

The Hannons were shocked to hear of the tragic death of 11-times champion jockey Pat Eddery earlier this week, and Richard snr recalled some great moments together with one of the all-time greats.

He said:"Pat rode some big winners for me, including Tirol in the Irish 2000 Guineas at The Curragh and Reel Buddy in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood.

"He was a fantastic rider and such a natural. You never saw a horse pull with him - he was always able to get them to relax and they said that he had anaesthetic running through his fingers. He was only 63 and it is such a shame."


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