
On Wednesday January 13th during a snowfall I visited the dual purpose yard of Midland trainer Ian Williams. I was fortunate enough to be allowed to go out with the 2nd lot as they walked to the nearby all weather gallop for their exercise. The horses did 2 laps of the all weather going right handed and then 2 laps of the circuit going left handed. 3183h
The yard itself has excellent facilities including an equine swimming pool, a well laid out stable block and modern accommodation block for the stable staff.
The stable itself has been in good form and had a well backed winner over hurdles, Gifted Leader, at Southwell last week. The star of the stable is Weird Al who is 4th favourite for the RSA Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. He has already won twice over the Cheltenham fences so has that advantage over his market rivals many of whom have only had the one run over fences. They hope to get a further outing from him before his date at Cheltenham. The staff are a friendly bunch and I was made to feel very welcome.
Photos by Ian Yates