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Henry Brooke: Forget the Pertemps it’s all about Uttoxeter for White Rhino

What a week of racing it’s been at Cheltenham. It was nice to see the British fight back on Thursday, taking on the Irish, especially with the Skelton’s having a few winners. They are great lads, and I’ve managed to ride some good winners for them in the past.

It was a bit gutting to see White Rhino miss out on the Pertemps as he failed to make the final field. Even though Jonjo O’Neill pulled his two runners on the morning of the race, it still meant we weren’t able to get a run, which was a shame, but that’s the way it goes, and he’ll take his chance this weekend at Uttoxeter.

We now move on to Saturday, where I head to Uttoxeter for two rides on Midlands National Day.

What is it like to ride Uttoxeter?

I always enjoy going to Uttoxeter; it’s a lovely track to ride around. There are long straights, which means you can take your time to bring your horse into the race, and you’re never in too much of a rush. However, it can get very soft at times, so you’ll need a horse that will be able to handle the testing conditions.

My Saturday rides at Uttoxeter

2.25 – White Rhino (Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero)

I think he would have a better chance of winning this than he would have done in the Pertemps at Cheltenham, as that’s always an ultra-competitive race. I would be really strong on his chances in this race, and I’ll be looking forward to getting back on him.

I don’t know if this would be his last run or not, but he could possibly head to one of the big festivals at Aintree or Ayr next month. Whatever happens, we’ve had a great run with him this winter, and the plan is to go chasing next season.

4.10 – Good Work (Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero)

He is the most frustrating horse I’ve probably ever ridden, and I think the lads at Josh and Olly’s are of the same opinion. He just keeps finishing second, and he is the hardest horse to win with, as we’ve finished second with him seven times. Ollie is quite cool and laid-back, but Josh is pulling his hair out as he really wants to win a race with him. 

 His last run at Haydock was a good effort, and this looks to be a lesser race. If the ground is soft, he’ll be there or thereabouts.

 I hope you all have a good weekend and enjoy the racing!

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