Stardhem third at Fontwell Park

Stardhem took a step forwards on the form of his hurdling debut when third at Fontwell Park yesterday under Ben Jones.

It was run in attritional conditions and though he got tired up the hill in the home straight, there were plenty of positives to take from the run and I’m sure he is just going to continue to improve with each start.  He looked a picture in the paddock beforehand and has really grown and matured in recent months, and it was pleasing to see him enjoying his hurdling and travelling well despite the very testing ground.

We will look to have him back on the racecourse in the coming three weeks, after which he will be qualified for a handicap mark, which will give us lots more options.  As long as the ground is safe, I see no reason why he can’t have a handicap debut run this spring, but we’ll get the next race out of the way first and then make a plan with Ben.  There is lots to look forward to with him next term, particularly once he is sent chasing.