Trainer Rebecca Menzies executed a thoughtful surprise for owner John Wade during his recent trip to Northern Ireland, resulting in a memorable day of racing success at Downpatrick.
The plan unfolded when Wade, who owns Howe Hills, where Menzies trains, mentioned that he would be away for several days in Northern Ireland and asked her not to enter any of his horses in England during his absence. Seizing the opportunity, Menzies decided to sponsor a race at Downpatrick in Wade's honour and entered several of his horses for the meeting.
Though the surprise was nearly spoiled when Wade checked Friday’s race entries to ensure none of his horses were running in England, the day still proved a triumph as two of the four runners secured victories.
Boomslang kicked things off by winning the Denvir's Of Downpatrick Beginners Chase, racing for Wade’s close friend Maria D Myco. This was followed by Edgewell’s win in the Rebecca Menzies Racing 40 Winners And Counting For John Wade Handicap Chase, earning the day’s second win for Wade.
"John is our landlord and a major supporter of the yard with many horses in training," Menzies explained. "He told me not to enter his horses in England, but didn’t mention Ireland, so we hatched this plan. Four of the runners were his, and one belonged to his lifelong friend, Maria, who was there with him."
Wade discovered the race entries just two days before the event, slightly spoiling the surprise. However, with two winners and perfect racing conditions, the day turned out to be a huge success. "It all worked out beautifully. The ground was perfect, the races thinned out a bit, and we had a hospitality box," Menzies said.
Reflecting on the weekend, Wade was thrilled, comparing it to the time he won a Listed race at Ayr with Return Ticket, a day he fondly remembered for sharing the experience with many friends who were new to racing. "He said the day in Ireland was just as special. It was a brilliant day for him, and he was absolutely buzzing," Menzies added.