2012 season

We couldn’t be more delighted, what a wonderful little character had we brought into the world!

Now, every cute foal needs a name….and here I was stuck! Initially he was just referred to as ‘Tiddles’ but this quickly became ‘Trouble’ as we got to know him! I had considered every Whisky name under the sun but none really fitted…I mean how hard could it be…mare was Glayva, a whisky liqueur, dad was Shauna’s Diamond, an Irish Draught…the name should have been staring me in the face! I had thought of Aidan as it means “little fiery one” but that wasn’t right either!

Eventually, after about 10 days I went out to the stables for foalie cuddles armed with a baby name book! I ruffled the book under his nose, which he thought was very interesting so I let him stop the book with his snout, pick a page and choose his own name….”Bailey” he said with a look of “Come on mum, it’s obvious!” on his smart little face. Well right he was…an Irish Whisky Liqueur….obvious and perfect! Young Bailey very quickly became know as Bails and occasionally when we muddle the letters he is Basil!

I have to say that although Mary and I didn’t achieve all that was hoped, she exceeded all expectations when she produced my boy Bails; she has given me the most wonderful gift and experiences of my life which far outreach any competitive aspirations I may have once had.

Next time…hear about Bails in his early years!