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Peter Holbrook

From as early as I can remember my father was following racing closely and watching it on the television whenever possible. This resulted in me getting hooked myself, especially during the National Hunt season.

It was a golden age for jumping. Arkle was showing just what an absolute superstar he had become, still unsurpassed to this day, with his great rival Mill House. It was a compelling time to get into the sport.

My friends, all into football of course, were somewhat bemused by me speculating about what horse might win the Mackeson Gold Cup rather than who would win the FA Cup!

My first visit to a racecourse was when I was on holiday with my parents on the south coast, and they decided to take me to Fontwell. I had become a huge fan of Terry Biddlecombe by then, and was thrilled that he was riding at the meeting.

To my delight he rode a double, on Stormtrooper and Black Spot, if I remember correctly. I was hugely impressed by that visit, even if my mother commented that Terry "needs a haircut!"

Back then Kent had two racetracks, Wye and Folkestone, both sadly gone now, and whenever possible I would dust off the pushbike and pedal off to a meeting. The love of jump racing has never dimmed and I have seen the coming and going of many great horses including the likes of; Red Rum, Desert Orchid, Kauto Star.

A couple of years ago, my wife pointed out an advert for shares in a racehorse. This turned out to be for DancingOnTheEdge. It was love at first sight! She is such a lovely mare, and my wife bought me a share for my birthday.

Following her career has been magic. We have been with her all the way, and her recovery time with Sally has been fascinating, and hopefully will result in more success, but more importantly good health for her

Inevitably, I could not stop at just the one. Stroll On By quickly joined Dottie and Kenmya is the newest recruit joining just this week!

My wife meanwhile had good old Henry plus Big City Roller and Kingston James!

Well done Old Gold for giving us such pleasure. Long may it continue to flourish.