OH MY DROGO!

The 2m4f novice chase on the opening day is famous for producing future stars. With a roll of honour including Denman, Grands Crus, Dynaste, Finian’s Oscar and Protektorat to name a few, it is easy to see why. However, last year’s race is remembered not for the class of the winner, but more for the extraordinary drama that took place in a two-horse race between My Drogo and Gin On Lime. My Drogo passed his solitary rival approaching the second-last, but slipped on landing and unseated Harry Skelton. Meanwhile, almost simultaneously, Gin On Lime pecked on landing appearing to slither out of the race too. However, Rachael Blackmore somehow managed to stay aboard her mount, picked her up, jumped the last and coasted up the hill. Gin On Lime didn’t turn out to be top-class, but My Drogo certainly could, and he is a dark horse for the big spring festivals next year.