Skelton has first runner at Stratford Dan Skelton is already a recognisable face in National Hunt racing but he takes a major step in his racing career when he saddles his first runner at Stratford on Thursday. Son of the Olympic gold medal-winning showjumper Nick, Skelton spent the last nine seasons as assistant to Paul Nicholls, associating himself with such equine luminaries as Kauto Star, Denman and Big Buck's. Gavroche Gaugain, who contests the Bay Middleton Handicap Hurdle, cannot be placed in that bracket as he has not won a race for nearly two years and was moved by his owner from Ferdy Murphy when the trainer chose to relocate to France. "It's just great to get the ball rolling really, and it's nice to start locally at Stratford," said Skelton. "It's a low-key start in just an ordinary race. I've no idea how the horse will run, but he looks outstanding and has a much lower rating over hurdles than fences." Skelton has set up at Lodge Hill, part of the family farm near Alcester in Warwickshire. With the help of his brother Harry, his stable jockey, and his assistant, amateur rider Josh Guerriero, work has been going on around the clock during the summer to get ready. "We've been grafting all the way through the summer and I've got so many people to thank, from my wife and my family to the owners, staff and contractors," he said. "I've only been racing twice since I left Paul at the end of last season. We're happy with the location - it's a bit secluded and there aren't many trainers around here - but we can keep ourselves to ourselves. "We've got 35 horses in, some I bought specifically at the sales, so we've got something that fits every category including a few mares, as the programme suits them nowadays. "American Trilogy, who runs at Newton Abbot on Sunday, is the best known, and we've got a good mix. "To be honest, I'm just happy to be having a runner and I don't want to put any pressure on anyone to have a number of winners. "People who know me know that do I like winning, though, and hopefully success will come in time."
