Paul Webber Racing

........... Sorry about the News Page Confusion today, our internet connection has had its wires nibbled by chocolate-starved Easter Bunnies, i fear!
............ I was detailing yesterday's moderate performances and saying that SARANDO's season should probably have ended at The Cheltenham Festival, as he appeared 'over the top' when running an undistinguished 'flat' race. It's one of the most difficult obsevations for a trainer to make to be able to spot an 'O.T.T.' horse at home as they show all their usual signs of well-being, only to disappoint at the races. Nevertheless, this horse has made giant improvement this season, although i think the handicapper has over-estimated his achievements, but i suppose we'll see the real value of his form when The Minack runs at Aintree later this week.
LLAMA FARMER also ran pretty miserably as we have continued high hopes for this horse. He faded very quickly and i have a deep suspicion that this horse may have a wind problem that does not manifest itself with any type of 'noise'. The Vets tell us that a third of all horses with wind impediments never actually make any noise, which makes diagnosis ever more difficult. It is time for his summer(!) holiday now and then we'll operate on him before he starts serious work in August. KRISTALLO was unfortunate in that there was no pace in his race at Kempton and he was done for speed in the straight, but I also get the feeling that he will benefit from us decorating his head with a lovely bright red pair of blinkers to match his colours! When/If the ground ever dries up he will be more effective over hurdles.
We have to put yesterday quickly behind us and plan for an important week. HERE'S THE KEY runs at Huntingdon tomorrow after an unfortunate experience at Towcester last time. She jumped the second hurdle perfectly that day, but landed on the back of a hesitant and errant rival and completely lost her confidence and equilibrium. She has schooled very well since and has a good each-way chance.
A major quandary is looming at Aintree on thursday. Should TIME FOR RUPERT be allowed another crack at Big Bucks or is that a futile plan? There are so many factors both for and against another crack at an undoubted superstar or should we wait for Punchestown?
We will deliberate, cogitate, ruminate and stay up late, then leave the decision to the last possible moment.