Since Palladium took centre stage and topped the bill at Huntingdon, on 23 January, Seven Barrows haven't been hitting the old target that regularly and are just 1/18. And that winner was at '12/1 on' so the yards level stakes punters must be crying into their GnT's at the min. I don't think the 1/18 is anything to seriously worry about, though, as plenty of the other 17 have hit the frame (as many as 7 achieved a 2nd or 3rd placing) and the barns most recent runner was only a short, I say short, head away from winning a Grade 1. Lieutenant Henderson's next runners won't be until at least Thursday (11 horses currently entered, on that day, at Ffos Las, Doncaster and Wetherby) and I'm sure he'll be looking to boost that recent % win rate in the process.
Just read an interview with him where he said he "probably hasn't got a supreme horse" this year as Lulamba will likely go to the Triumph. Makes sense because Kopek des Bordes looks like he only has to turn up to win the Supreme whereas the Irish juveniles don't look that special this year.
Infection now in the ligaments, I would doubt he will see the track again if that is the real story. How it was let get this far in a modern yard is quite shocking. Where was the Vet checking after the gash occurred.
I was thinking Willie might have a bit more competition this year but that is now two absolute top-notchers in The Jukebox Man and Sir Gino out for the season.
A real kick in the teeth for team Henderson. If the Festival wasn't so diluted it may not be as big of a talking point but now it leaves yet another race with what looks like a steering job on paper In the shape of Majborough. Hopefully the horse makes a full recovery.
