We’ve been very patient with Merdon Castle and stuck with him through immature knees and stalls problems but we were finally rewarded at Carlisle when he came from behind to win under Jimmy.

“Race distance as advertised. A modest handicap, lacking in-form contenders.  MERDON CASTLE, who was well backed, came from off the gallop to win going away, only his second win in 23 attempts since his racecourse debut. It was his first win on turf. The stewards considered his apparent improvement in form compared with his previous run at Newcastle, and noted the explanation of the trainer’s representative that the gelding had benefited from being freshened up by a break.”

Racing Post, 2017

“Merdon Castle’s been a bit frustrating as he hadn’t won for us before today. He stayed on well and a stiff six furlongs seems to suit him. Hopefully that will give him some confidence now.”

James Sullivan, 2017