Wild Hope’s naming day

With the Flat season under way the excitement is tangibly growing for the season ahead and went up a notch for owners in our colt by Kingman on Friday when his syndicate gathered at Hambleton for his naming day.

It’s taken a while in 2018, but warmer, spring like weather (yes really) greeted owners as they entered Hambleton Lodge and there was a real feel of optimism in the air as they were greeted by the Hambleton team.

Our ever-popular snacks and range of hot drinks once again went down very well with the hot chocolate and marshmallows a very popular choice as owners cast their eyes over Kevin’s well-oiled training machine.

As owners moved freely around the yard to catch up with their horses there was a good atmosphere as memories of last year’s great days were discussed along with this year’s plans and hopes.

The main focus of attention was of course the soon-to-be-named colt, who was getting lots of attention as his owners spent some time in his company ahead of the gallops action.

As he walked calmly from his stable the excitement grew further as the syndicate headed off to see their two-year-old in action on the Hambleton gallops.

The colt moved really well, covering serious ground with his impressive stride in front of the many snapping cameras and admiring glances.

As the horses made their way back down the gallops the colt looked a picture under Kevin Stott as his owners got a little closer to the action.

From the gallops it was then back into Kevin’s yard where Louise Pollard, Hambleton’s excellent professional photographer, was on hand to ensure some stunning pictures were captured for owners as they posed with their colt.

After the photo shoot the syndicate made the short journey to the nearby, award winning Carpenter’s Arms at Felixkirk for drinks ahead of the naming meal on the all-complimentary day.

With several of the syndicate having shares in other horses there was plenty of laughter and a great atmosphere in the pub as lunch was served in a typically informal and enjoyable Hambleton environment.

Exquisite puddings were served with sumptuous main courses and there was a general feeling of contentment in the room as Cosmo stood up to announce the result of the naming vote.

The name Wild Hope proved a popular winner and was met with absolute delight by Colleen, pictured right alongside Wild Hope, proceeded to get up and say a few words about how excited she was to have suggested the winning name after many of her previous attempts attempts had fallen short.

Owners proceeded to toast Wild Hope with champagne before Colleen, still beaming after her name was voted the winner, was presented with a prize bottle of champagne for her efforts.

With Wild Hope looking a picture and a great atmosphere running throughout the day, his naming day proved a very enjoyable occasion.

His owners are now excitedly looking forward to the future as their colt prepares to begin his racing career.