DC Flyer’s naming day

Arctic weather greeted us for our first naming meal of the year with Kevin Ryan, though it didn’t dampen spirits as owners gathered to see DC Flyer on his naming day.

With the recent winter conditions clearing somewhat for the day, owners arrived at Kevin Ryan’s yard on the outskirts of Thirsk, where they enjoyed coffees and baked goods from The Drink Stop, which were most welcome, with temperatures most definitely still on the cooler side!

There was no mistaking the main attraction, as owners gathered around the horse walker to catch a glimpse of their soon-to-be named colt by Washington DC as he warmed up ahead of action.

With the historic Hambleton gallops out of action due to four-foot snow drifts, owners viewed their colt at close quarters on the undercover treadmill, as he was put through his paces under the watchful eye of Kevin.

Ever the professional, he easily extended his stride as he was asked to pick up the speed he was travelling, until he was happily cantering away on the impressive piece of equipment.

Once his workout was done and dusted, the son of Washington DC was given a warm soapy bath to ensure he looked his best for meeting his owners as their professional photographs were taken.

Owners loved the chance to get up close and personal with their colt and he posed like a pro as photographer Louise Pollard snapped away, ears pricked whilst showing a bit of character, nibbling away on any coat he could get hold of.

Afterwards, owners had the chance to have a good look around Kevin Ryan’s impressive facilities, with many making a beeline for 2022 hero Washington Heights, perhaps hoping their colt could replicate what he achieved last year, before everyone headed down to the nearby Carpenters Arms, for drinks and a catch-up.

As ever, the award-winning venue provided excellent catering as owners enjoyed the chance to get to know each other a little better, before Helen took to the stage to build the tension and reveal the name DC Flyer to be the landslide winner of the naming vote.

Owners celebrated the popular name, chosen by longstanding owner John, who received a prize bottle of champagne for putting forward the winning choice.

With Saturday’s star looking a real racy, early type, DC Flyer’s naming day proved a real hit as the atmosphere built in the pub and his owners relaxed and discussed what might lie ahead for their young horse.

We’d like to take this chance to thank all owners who joined us on Saturday for what will hopefully be the first of many memorable days for DC Flyer and his horse racing syndicate.

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