Written 29 October 2018
He really is a magnificent horse. Even now as he gingerly tries to get back to his feet, whinnying in pain and discomfort.
Difficult to tell whilst he's lying down, but I'd guess he stands at 25 hands. Auburn hair with not an ounce of body fat on him.
I kneel down beside Fantabulous Prescription, stroking his head, as he wriggles in discomfort on the churned turf.
“It was my fault, I left it too late. I'm so sorry Harry.” I hear from outside the tent. Well, at least the jockey admits it. Not much consolation to this beast though.
“It's nothing, Deryk. Don't beat yourself up over it.” The sound of the reassuring pat reverberates. There is no way Deryk will be riding for Harry again if that pat was anything to go by. Fantabulous Prescription makes another feeble attempt to get to his feet, but he collapses in a heap next to me once more, bucking his head wildly in frustration.
“It's okay.”
I swear I say that to every horse. My bedside manner is impeccable, but I am, it has to be said, a pathological liar. The tent unzips and Harry, still wearing his preposterous top hat and his once immaculate brogues, strides in, zipping up behind him.
“What's the diagnosis doc.” He puts his hands on his hips and looks at the horse like it's a car that has just had its MOT.
“No doing. Sorry Harry.”
“Damn shame. Was sure he was going to be a champion.” I get back to my feet and pat Harry on the back. I do this with every owner. Good bedside manner.
“Why did you call him Fantabulous Prescription?”
“I dreamed it up 4 years ago. A Horse that looks just like this fella won the national for me.”
“Well, you shouldn't follow your dreams Harry.” I reach for the rifle. “I use to dream of being a vet that actually helped animals.”
Harry bends down and gives Fantabulous Prescription the obligatory pat on the head.
“I'm sorry it didn't work out, boy.” He gets back to his feet as Fantabulous Prescription rests his head on the ground.
“I'll step out.” Harry leaves. I cock my gun. Steeplechase season is the worst. This is the fourth this week.