September Newsletter
Ticking away nicely!
September has been a busy month for us, both on and off the track. Our small team of summer horses has continued to fly the flag, while the majority of the winter string is now back in proper work. The pace at Felstead is certainly picking up and it’s very much all systems go as we head into autumn.
There have been some brilliant performances to celebrate, not least from Limerick Leader, who has been an absolute star for the yard and his owners, Team Tristar. He’s travelled the length and breadth of the country this month, taking in Bangor, Sedgefield, Kelso and Newton Abbot and returning with an impressive record of three wins and a second. At nine years old, to be showing that level of enthusiasm and consistency is fantastic, and we’re thoroughly enjoying the ride he is taking us all on.
We also celebrated our first all-weather winner when Luan won at Wolverhampton for new owners Hasmonean Racing. He looks likely to continue through the winter, with staying trips firmly on the agenda, so hopefully there is plenty more to come from him.
Another new face to make a winning impression was Handmedownastar, who won comfortably at Kelso under Sean Bowen for owners new to the yard. He did it in lovely style and, all being well, is likely to head to Chepstow in October. The dream continues with him, and we’re excited to see where he can take us.
Small Team, Big Result
One of the highlights of the month came with Nick and the team absolutely thrilled to be crowned Small Trainers Champions for the summer. We deliberately kept a very small, select team going through the summer, but they have run with tremendous consistency and been a real credit to everyone at home.
It all came down to the wire, with Nick and David Pipe heading into the final race level. Raffles Nobu’s second place was enough to tip the balance in our favour and secure the title — a brilliant way to finish the summer campaign.
It’s a wonderful initiative from the RCA and The Sun, and particularly rewarding because the team will share an £8,000 cash bonus. It’s thoroughly deserved recognition for the people working behind the scenes every day and a lovely way to thank them for the standards they continue to maintain.
The Winter Team Gears Up
Our winter horses are yet to make their seasonal reappearances, with most likely to return to the racecourse later in October. We could certainly do with plenty more rain before then, but at home everything is progressing as we’d hope.
It’s great to have both familiar faces and exciting new additions filling the yard again. They’re now schooling and stepping up their work, so life is becoming a little more interesting for them as we build towards their first runs of the season.
A special mention must also go to Millie, who does a huge amount of our driving and regularly takes horses racing single-handedly. Her standards have been exceptional, and she has picked up an incredible 15 Best Turned Out awards this month alone. It’s testament not only to her hard work and attention to detail, but also to the genuine care and respect she has for every horse she takes racing. We’re incredibly lucky to have her.
As September draws to a close, a huge thank you must go to everyone involved with Nick Scholfield Racing. From our owners and staff to our farriers, vets, feed suppliers, supporters and everyone else who plays their part — none of what happens on the racecourse would be possible without the team behind it.
With the summer horses having done us proud and the winter string waiting in the wings, there is plenty to look forward to as we head into October.
Love the NS team X
