Had a look at Squire's run there and finding it hard enough what to make of it myself. Seemed to enjoy himself a lot out in front and don't think he dispelled much energy getting to the front from the wide draw. I think Havlin kicked at the right time. Hard to know if he just didn't have the pace to quicken with the others and he needs stepping up in trip. For all his homework might be above what his mark is, that doesn't always translate to the track. Perhaps he might need to come down a few more lbs judged on what we've seen on his 2 runs in handicaps. Only time will tell. Definitely think there are races to be won with him in time. His half brother Certification has won over hurdles for Andrew Crook so I'd say going down that route is definitely a possibility. Might be worth giving him a few months off now and save him for the turf season. I'd agree with Bob that you might try a different trainer. Never really been a fan of Attwater's if I'm honest. All my own opinions and could be wrong on each and every facet above. Best of luck
Thanks for the feedback fellas and some interesting stuff. First and foremost I have to tell you that Michael Attwater is the trainer and I wouldn't swap him for anyone else. Having been involved in a few now I have to tell you that he is by a mile the best communicator and most friendly and welcoming of all the trainers I have had dealings with. I know that you guys look at bare results but its not completely about that with this experience. You also have to realise that Michael is in a position of training for one primary owner. That owner buys his own horses and to a great degree decides where they will run. Michael himself know more about the mechanics of racehorses than I could ever dream of knowing! Cyc, no mate, he could never now run in a bumper having run on the flat! Ron, all his home work up till now has been on the AW gallops. Impossible to time them but you can get a very good guage by how he works against others in the yard. Over the mile at home he more than holds his own against other 70 rated horses. Michael thinks he is still maturing and to his eye looks a little lean at the moment. I couldn't see it but he reckoned he looked a little dull in his coat last night. With spring approaching it is hoped that a bit of sun on his back may make a lot of difference. He is also thinking that a change of diet to something that will bulk him up a bit might help. With these things in mind I think we might now let him have a few weeks away from the track. He still suffers from sore shins which Michael says is a sure sign that he is still growing. Rather than knock his socks off now it may pay to be patient with him as he could still mature into a decent horse. What I would also say though is that I don't think you could buy him now for under four grand! Shergs mate.........nice to see ya!
That seems a bit strange considering the lack of racing and training as a 2/3yo. Does he have heat in the front of his cannon bone(s) during training? Agree, keep him off exercise and fast work . Daily sessions in the swimming pool could be useful.
If you're referring to the heat stick, I'd be worried, especially running again so soon. Presumably he was cold hosed and given intensive anti-inflammatory therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. He needs 4 months off from training then brought back into work in the pool. I would have his legs scanned; you'll probably find he has swollen bones where new bone has been forming. Take care, It can be very painful for the horse.
