Winding along the back lanes of Somerset, and with views of
Minehead in the distance lies a gem of British racing. Sandhills racing stables.
Home of one P.J Hobbs, Phillip Hobbs trainer is in charge of
approx 112 horses ranging from youngsters
to champions.
Land owned by the crown Estate, this idyllic of settings offers the best facilities to train the race horse.
About 4 furlongs of poly-track and woodchip gallops. Portable and modern schooling facilities and a view to die for, a large a busy yard goes about it's daily work without a hint of panic or hustle.
Horses and personal seem calm relaxed and happy to be going about their work.
On the visit to view the Guvnors third lot work. Horses showed the paces of three short canters upsides. Time to recover between each burst, and a good wash after. I defy anyone to say that boredom could creep in. (saying that, the morning was a beautiful early spring morning, maybe not so much fun if rain and cold weather sweep off the coast.)
To cap it all, a brief meeting with the horse that has captured the racing heart, Balthazar King. Fresh from his little tumble at Cheltenham, enjoying some relax time in the field.
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Balthazar King |
I enjoy trips to the offices of the racing world, some yards are very workmanlike, but it's the feeling in some, that yes, work is done. But the atmosphere is calm and serine.
Thanks to all the team for making us all so welcome. I wish so many more could experience. Even the doubters in horse racing, because you just cannot say that these athletes do not have a privileged life
WEST BERKSHIRE RACING CLUB ON A VISIT TO PHILLIP HOBBS
SANDHILL STABLES
BILBROOK
SOMERSET
