Onesmoothoperator delighted us in Meydan last night, when finishing 3rd in the Gr 3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy. It was a strong field of 6 runners, and he was running off the same weight as horses rated higher, so it was tough. He travelled well throughout, and whilst the winner won easily, Smoothie was only beaten half a length for 2nd. We will know in the next few days or so, what his chances of getting in the Dubai Gold Cup (April 5th) will be. If it is unlikely, then he will come home next month.

Closer to home, Anglers Crag is bidding for back to back wins in the Virgin Bet Eider Chase at Newcastle today. The race last year was run in very testing conditions, which he loved, and whilst it won't be heavy this year, we are hoping it will still be soft enough for him. It has taken a couple of runs this year to get him to peak fitness, but he should be spot on for today's race.

Salsada runs in the 2 mile handicap hurdle, for members of Brian Ellison Racing Club. She has won twice in the clubs colours this season, but both of those wins were over 2m 4f.

Chillhi is the last of our runners at Newcastle, running in the Costello's Cleaning Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle at 17.05, and over at Southwell, Lir Speciale is making her debut for the team at 4.25, under Ben Robinson.

Photo right - Anglers Crag, in the winners enclosure, having won last years Eider.