Dubai: The Aftermath

We’re all back on the ranch, and the estate is looking spectacular. Agri chief, Barry Watson, has just concluded more than 700 acres of winter pasture planting, and whilst there’s a debate as to whether he got late or not, what’s not in doubt is he got lucky. The day he finished the rains came, and the emerald germinates have the place in magnificent contrasting colour. Remember, Autumn is setting, and the golds and burgundies are creeping into the firmament, with the near certainty of huge blue skies day upon day.

Dr Barry ClementsWe’ve also a greatly cosmopolitan mix of visitors, Americans, Argentinians, a few Brits, and of course Mullins Bay’s part owner, Dr. Barry Clements of Australia. He’s working his way through his hoards of mares, yearlings and foals, and having examined his local balance sheet, he’s in the form of his life.

On the subject of Mullins Bay, Champion Trainer Mike de Kock phoned from the UK this morning to enquire if we had any problems with his entering the horse for the Irish Champion Stakes later in the year. Now that’s a compliment to the talents of our man, if ever there was one, and he should know if anyone does.