Manager’s Thoughts on Beltane at Newcastle

Beltane heads to Newcastle today for Mark Walford, with Jack Callan in the saddle. He’s a horse who has provided his fair share of frustration over recent months, largely because we know there is more ability there than he has shown on the track. Now down to a mark of 50, he is potentially one of the best-handicapped horses in our team—if he applies himself and channels his energy in the right direction.

When Beltane first came to us, we were aware of the temperament issues he had shown in previous yards. To his credit, he settled in extremely well and has been a pleasure to deal with for the most part. Recently, however, we’ve noticed a few of those old traits starting to creep back in. It’s nothing unmanageable, but enough to remind us that he’s a horse who needs things to fall his way mentally as much as physically. We’re hoping that alongside those quirks, his true ability resurfaces too.

Today, we’re looking for him to take a step forward—show a bit more focus, travel into the race with purpose, and give us a clearer indication of where we stand with him going into the rest of the season. If he does that, we’ll be more than happy, and if everything clicks, he’s certainly capable of getting that long-awaited and well-deserved win. He does need to show something going forward or may be found a new job to do!

Good luck to all connections involved today, and a reminder to everyone travelling to Newcastle or any of the fixtures—please stay safe in the snow and take care on the roads.