HARPER LODGE FARM’S Open Day yesterday as part of National Racehorse Week was a big hit with those who attended.
The weather gods were kind as not only was it dry but rather warm which meant the full programme of events planned in conjunction with co-hosts, Solario Racing, could go ahead as planned.
There were some no-shows, as is inevitable on such occasions but around 20 guests turned up from 9.30am and began the morning with coffee and pastries. While most were fairly local, one lady came from Cambridgeshire, quite a compliment, as Newmarket yards were opening their doors to the public and are a lot closer.
We then all watched horses limber up for Third Lot which included Solario Racing’s two 2yos, Sharp Distinction and Twilight Bay with the latter doing a nice piece of work upsides Nezar. Others on the gallops included seven times winner Stake Acclaim, Flaming Spear, winner of £200,000 and 14-times winner, Tropics.
The 13yo sprinter was then paraded in the indoor school (pictured) along with Llibrisa Breeze, winner of the Group One Champions Sprint back in 2017. The two veterans have won £1.3million between them and were a big attraction for the Open Day guests.
A personal guided tour of the main yard was then given by Solario Racing’s Simon Double and the trainer and many took the opportunity to take photographs of their favourite stars.
The morning concluded with Champagne and a superb brunch outside in one of the nearby paddocks. While the day was all about celebrating the racehorse and the racing industry, there was interest among some guests in getting involved in ownership.
While some other yards opened their doors up to many more visitors, the plan was always for Harper Lodge Farm to keep the numbers small and select so those attending felt they were getting personal attention.
The morning had been oversubscribed, so there will be an “overspill” second Open Day on Saturday 13 November. If you have already booked on that, please call Simon Double at Solario Racing on 01442 877 597 to confirm your attendance. If you haven’t yet booked but would like to attend, please again call to register your place or places.