What can I say? The two weeks leading up to the "ton run" seemed to be a never ending stream of press and radio interviews. I took responsibility for these, so that Ted and Joy could get on with preparing the horses. The media interest was amazing and I did some promotion work for the BHB's Discover Racing campaign at the same time.
The day of the race was a very emotional affair. It was absolutely wonderful to
meet so many fan club members in one place. A big "thank you" to everyone who
stopped us to say "hello".
Unfortunately, the horses' performances did not match our expectations. Trio was going really well until dropping out of contention quickly. Nick sensed something was amiss and pulled the horse up. On returning to us we found that Trio was bleeding from the nose. This was the first time that he has ever burst a blood vessel.
Quixall was the centre of attention from lots of members of the crowd, as well as the media. I did two TV interviews before racing and hundreds of photos were taken before the race. He was cheered as we walked around the parade ring. Quixall won the award for the best turned out horse in the race.
Ted thinks something went amiss at the second fence and QC was bumped against the wings of the fence as he jumped it. He was a bit unnerved by this, and when a horse fell at another fence, almost tripping him up, he seemed to realise that it was possible that he might get hurt with so many other runners around him. He dropped back from the main group, leaving Nick no alternative but to pull him up.
The cheers from the packed grandstand - it was Southwell's biggest crowd for over ten years - showed the genuine affection with which he is regarded by British race-goers. He returned to me sound and in good heart. After racing had finished, Quixall and I did a live Sky News broadcast that was sent world-wide. The counter on the webite has gone through the roof this week!!
Quixall didn't really get into the race properly, so we are currently analysing what went wrong with a view to formulating his future plans. Watch this space.
In closing this little news piece, I would just like to thank everyone who made Sunday such special day for Quixall, Joy, Ted and me. It is a day that will live in my memory for ever.
Geoffrey Sanderson, Thirsk, July 2001