Visit to Emma Lavelle's Stables
by Robert Watson
Organising a Club visit just before Christmas is usually a bit of a gamble, but any misgivings were firmly squashed as a large group of members assembled at Cottage Stables, such was the drawing power of Emma Lavelle.It was in March 2003 that the Club first visited Emma’s stables, though contact has been maintained over the years as Emma has been a panel member at several evening events. Her yard has grown steadily, now with over seventy horses and a large majority of National Hunt horses.
Our visit began with a welcome reception of hot drinks and goodies to eat. The frost has only just come out of the ground by late morning, under a bright winter sun. The all weather gallop is four furlongs long and the horses work up the gradual slope, walk back to their starting position, for the process to be repeated two or three times depending on the horses’ individual needs,
With five lots working out, Emma has opted for a relatively late start to the working day and goes through to mid afternoon. We watched the third lot do their bit, Emma chatting amiably and informatively throughout. One of the stable stars, Lebelthou, an eight years old mare, was on view and looked fit and keen to put her best foot forward.
Back in the yard, members were able to wander around and see all the equine residents at close hand (this while Emma supervised the next lot getting ready to go out). Of particular note was Tana River, runner up in the previous weekend’s long distance hurdle at Sandown, a race he had won the previous season; there was no disgrace in defeat having run a fine race under top weight.
Mention must be made of stable jockey Barry Fenton who is currently sidelined by a fractured leg; incredible bad luck being the fifth such injury he has suffered. We all know and appreciate the risk jump jockeys are exposed to, but this is a cruel scenario indeed. The loss to the yard goes deeper as Emma pointed out how much Barry contributes to the running of the yard with his riding out, schooling and general racing experience. His input is sorely missed. Dominic Elsworth and Noel Fehily were mentioned as replacements but given their other commitments; Emma may have to rely on the best ‘spare’ available on the day.
Although not in use during our visit, those who came previously will probably remember the circular gallop of testing, deep Irish sand. We were assured that this is still in use and provides no beach party for the horses but an excellent way of toning up muscle, especially early in the season.
The success of any stable depends on the enthusiasm of the trainer, hard work and commitment of the staff, and the ability ot get the best out of the horses by all concerned. Given these parameters, there is no doubting that the success of Cottage Stables under Emma Lavelle, which has improved season on season, will continue on an upward curve.
Post visit sequel – It was very pleasing to receive a few days later the following note from Emma’s Secretary, Katrina -
Thank you so much for the kind donation you left for the lads Christmas box when you came for your Club’s visit. We hope you enjoyed your time here and look forward to seeing you again next year. Best wishes for 2008.