Open Day Parade
AMY MURPHY held her Owners’ Open Day yesterday at Southgate Stables and although the day was as always, brilliantly organised and a wonderful day for her many owners, the day was tinged with sadness, it being so soon after the tragic death of 23-year-old jockey, Stefano Cherchi, who was a big part of the team.
Someone above must have been smiling as the weather was sunny and warm, a rare event given the very wet and cold spring the country has endured this year.
The Champagne was soon flowing and canapés were served, even before the parade of horses began late morning. Solario Racing had three of its horses paraded, namely dual winner, Sharp Distinction and two two-year-olds, the recently named Beauhaather (by Mohaather) and the unnamed Masar colt. All three behaved themselves as did all the horses throughout the parade.
Amy paraded flat and jumps horses and they included old favourites, Kalashnikov Mercian Prince, now both retired but who won 22 races between them.
Amy conducts ceremonies
At the end of the Open Day parade, an emotional Amy paid tribute to her staff and to Stefano.
She said: “A massive thanks to all of the staff here beside me during what has not been an easy time but there is one member of the team and a dear friend who is sadly missing from today.”
She continued: “Stefano was the life and soul of every party. He was hardworking and we recently lost him doing what he loved. The team beside me have pulled together incredibly well during what I’m sure you will understand has been an immensely tough situation and I’m so proud of them.
“Stefano wouldn’t want us to have a minute’s silence, he would instead want everyone to have a glass in hand and raise it to his life. So please join me with a glass of champagne to celebrate his life. He will be remembered by us forever and always.”
Southgate Stables staff raise a glass to Stefano Cherchi
Amy then invited all present to go and enjoy lunch! That is exactly what we all did and a fabulous three-course lunch was served with accompanying wines. The day which had started at 11am, finished around 5pm!
Thank you to Amy and her staff for hosting a wonderful event in difficult circumstances. Stefano would have been proud.
