We hope everyone has had a wonderful summer. The cold wind at the top of the gallops suggests the warmer days are behind us and jump racing weather is just around the corner!

It’s been a busy few months for us both on and off the racecourse, and now, as we move towards the start of the new season, there is a real sense of excitement in the air. This is one of the most thrilling times of the year for us at O’Neill Racing, as the National Hunt season is just around the corner. There is so much optimism in the yard, and we have high hopes for a fantastic season ahead – with plenty of luck, plenty of hard work, and, of course, lots of winners. Our team of horses are looking in great shape, and we can’t wait to get started and see them in action.

Since we last spoke, we have been thrilled to celebrate eight winners. Isocrate triumphed at Warwick, Icare Allen claimed victory at Uttoxeter, Just Adair enjoyed two fine wins on the flat at Windsor and Walk Of No Shame was victorious at a big price at Worcester. The Summer star-status goes to Don Virginia for winning twice, impressing at Southwell before going on to win this afternoon at Worcester in the feature Hurdle of the summer, the £70,000, trustatrader.com Fixed Brush Hurdle Series Final Novice’s Handicap Hurdle. It has been wonderful to see many of the horses running so well at this stage in the season and seeing our owners in the winner’s enclosure, setting a great bar for the winter months to come.

This summer has also been full of memorable moments off the track. We have been delighted to host a number of fantastic owner’s days, the latest of which took place just last weekend. The weather has been kind to us, allowing everyone to enjoy time outdoors and watch the horses on the gallops, which is always a highlight. Seeing our owners spend time with their horses, getting to know them a little better, and sharing in their progress is what makes these days so special. The sense of camaraderie and excitement around the yard during these days really reinforces why we love what we do.

We are thrilled to announce that Gabby has won our first-ever Employee of the Summer award. It’s a well-deserved honour for his hard work, and you can read more about it further down in this newsletter.

In addition, we have continued to be active at the sales and have been lucky to secure some very eye-catching horses. We are excited to see them settle into their new home and to watch them progress with their owners. There is a real buzz around the yard with the fresh talent we have brought in as we look forward to seeing them develop over the coming months. We do, however, still have a couple for sale, so if you were ever thinking of getting involved, there really is no better time!

All in all, it has been very productive and as we head into the new season, the feeling around the yard is one of optimism and excitement. With a talented team of horses, dedicated staff, and wonderful owners by our side, we feel ready for what promises to be an exciting and successful season ahead. We can’t wait to share it all with you.

​Best wishes and take care,

Jonjo and AJ

Congratulations to Gabby for being awarded our first-ever Employee of the Summer.

Gabby was given this in recognition of his outstanding dedication his work throughout the summer here at Jackdaws Castle. As the main sweeper driver and the man responsible for always making the yard look clean, Gabby is always on hand for yard duties, taking horses to the races and anything else that needs doing.

He wins a one-night bed and breakfast stay in any Accor Hotel in the UK. A huge thank you to Chris Ford for his incredible generosity and support for our team.