Authors: Paddy Cummins
She thought intensely, but her brain wasn't coming up with realistic answers. One thing she was sure of. There were only two ways of
solving it. Fight him, with all the dangerous consequences of that, or try to appease him - but how?
The motivating force that was driving her to find a solution was the silhouette of Garry lurking in her mind. It was him, the hunger and
longing for him, that was demanding her brain to come up with answers, and fast. It was so urgent, it just couldn't wait.
Decision time. Which option would she pursue, war or peace -
she chose the second option. Compromise. It always worked in industrial disputes - each side giving a little. She was confident it would work. Ken was intelligent and fair-minded. He too, desperately wanted a solution to the impasse. He now knew what the alternative was. He would hardly be so foolish to
risk loosing her by pushing the issue beyond the point of no return. No, he wouldn't - he wasn't that stupid - this will work - it had to work.
She drew up a plan that would bring back normality between
them, ease his anxiety, and she would have it ready for him when he returned in the evening. If he accepted it, she might even consider sleeping with him again to-night.
As Ken entered the kitchen, the appetising aroma of slowly
cooking steak gripped him by the stomach. It had been a long day at the golf course. Just a small ham sandwich and a coffee since morning left him weak with hunger.
'Hi Ken, had a good day?'
'Yeah, very good.'
'You must be starving?'
'I could eat a bit now alright ... that steak smells good.'
'It does, doesn't it? Won't be long now, it's nearly ready.'
He was relieved and pleasantly surprised by her upbeat form - something worth celebrating.
'What about a little drop of wine?'
'Sure, why not.? You look after that, Ken.'
'I will.' The tiredness of the day was forgotten, he was now bouncing around.
The meal was delicious, the wine washed it down beautifully. He felt great. She was happy too, confident that the first part her little
scheme was working, vindicating her mother's often expressed view that 'the way to a man's heart was through his stomach. Now for the second part.
'About yesterday, Ken ... I was a bit hard on you ... I'm sorry about that.'
'Forget it Jenny ... it was me that was totally out of order ... I realise that now. I don't know what got into me ... that damn picture ... I just couldn't cope with that ... I'm really sorry.'
'Okay. So can we start again? I mean, forget yesterday ...
make a new agreement.'
He paused for thought. It was a relief to hear her talk like that. He worried all last night after her hint of leaving him, a disaster he had to avert whatever the price. Placing his elbows on the table, crossing his
arms, he looked at her directly, ready and willing to compromise.
'Okay then, spit it out, Jenny ... I'm all ears.' The wine was working. It crossed his mind that if a deal was agreed it might be signed
and sealed later ... upstairs.
'Well, this is the situation Ken. There's only two more races this season ... next Thursday in Gowran Park, and the Punchestown Festival. Then we'll have a whole year to work things out.'
Ken was paying attention, pretending to be weighing it all up, but he had already decided to agree to whatever she had in mind. As long as she kept him fully informed of everything, he could cope. Not knowing the
details was his big problem, always caused him suspicion and worry.
'No more racing for a year?'
'That's right.'
'And then?'
'A year is a long time, Ken. You'd never know ... things
could change ... I could change ... who's to know ... we might even be a family by then.'
That was certainly a new positive approach - music to his ears. A family? She obviously still has hope - that would solve everything. All
their problems, frustrations and arguments would dissipate into thin air - it was a beautiful thought.
With his hands placed over hers, their eyes met, gentle smiles clinched the deal, a warm kiss sealed it, a new ray of hope brightened
up his mind. There was no alternative to Jenny's love - he couldn't live without her.
Jenny's mind was glowing too, but
her
light was beaming on a far wider agenda. Deep down, she was now resigned to a child-less life.
She had now filled that void by grasping new exciting opportunities that she knew would give her contentment and fulfilment. No way would she let anyone take that away from her now. Yes, she would acquiesce in Ken's hopes and dreams, he deserved that, but Garry had now become a new focal point, a new
driving force in her life, a motivation, a prize to be won and savoured. He was central to her life now - deep in her heart she felt that - there was no going back. She wouldn't want to hurt Ken in any way. This would be done secretly and
painlessly. She was confident her brains and intelligence would be capable of organising that - to-night proved what she could do.
They finished the bottle of wine, retired to bed early, and
wrapped in passionate love, the events of yesterday were well forgotten.
* * *
It was a miserable old Monday in Dream Valley. The dark clouds were low, merging to form a dome of late winter depression - it was cold and gloomy. Garry had been out early. Everything was normal with the horses -
all fresh and well, perky after their Sunday break. 'Harmonica' was the only one out yesterday, had to be kept exercised for her race on Thursday - she was in great form.
He hadn't heard a word from Jenny. It was killing him. He
urgently needed answers to some important questions. How did she get home with Ken? What happened when they did get home? How serious was the burst-up? Will she be riding in the race on Thursday? Will she ever ride in a race again? Will she
be even allowed to come down again?
Why doesn't she ring? She said she would. One minute of chat on the phone, and he would know everything. The waiting was unbearable.
Taking 'Harmonica' out to the little field behind the house,
he made sure to bring the mobile. It was now one-thirty, her lunchtime break, she might ring soon. He watched the mare graze contentedly, without a worry in the world. Great to be like that - so simple for animals. The phone rang. It
was the Vet.
'I'll be over in the afternoon to vaccinate the horses.'
'Okay.'
He sighed deeply. Why doesn't she ring? Why? Why? Emily
leaned over the gate.
'Will I take out 'Spinning Top' for a pick of grass too?'
'No, no Emily, leave her 'till later.'
He couldn't have her nearby if Jenny rang. She shrugged, turned and strolled away. The mobile rang.
'Hi Garry ... it's me.'
'Jenny! I thought you'd never ring.'
'Sorry Garry. This is the first chance I got ... how are you?'
'Oh I'm alright, but you, how are you? How did things go
afterwards?'
'Everything is fine now ... a bit tricky at first but fine now.'
'Oh, that's great, Jenny, does that mean that everything is sorted out?'
'Yeah.'
She sounded really up-beat and confident.
'That's terrific ... I knew you could handle it ... and Ken?'
'Ah, he's pulled in his horns now ... knew he was totally
wrong ... apologised ... promised not to interfere 'till the end of the season.'
'And after that?'
'Oh I had to promise that I'd review the situation then ... we'll see.'
'You're a star, Jenny ... Look, everything is spot-on for
Thursday ... 'Harmonica' is flying ... what time will you be down?'
About eleven ... will that do?'
'Fine. Sure Gowran is only over the road.'
'I'll see you then, Garry, take care, and don't worry about
a thing.'
'You're an angel, Jenny ... bye, and thanks a million for ringing.'
Although the day was still murky and dull, for him it was
now like mid-summer, feeling a heat-wave inside him, boiling with emotion and relief. Smiling at the little mobile in his hand, he marvelled at what that little thing could do for a man. He shouted out:
'Emily! Bring on 'Spinner'
The Tetredema Cup has been won by some great horses over the years - horses that have gone on to become champions. It was a certified Hunter's Chase for five-year-olds and upwards, run over three miles, sixteen
big fences, with prize-money of ten thousand pounds. Gowran Park, in the heart of County Kilkenny, was Garry's local racecourse. This was one of their big race days. To have a horse good enough to run in this prestigious race was an achievement for any trainer. Garry was conscious of the significance of this
for his career. To be there with a chance of winning it, in his first year as a trainer was remarkable. He felt really grateful to Jenny for making it possible.
He was up early, didn't sleep much, was tense, uptight,
nervous. He tried to convince himself that there was nothing to worry about. 'Harmonica' was fine, she had no long journey to travel, just a short spin over the road. The weather was good and the ground was perfect for her. It wouldn't
be an easy race. The other nine runners were top class, all much more experienced than 'Harmonica.' Although she was only a novice, he was confident she was good enough, and would win with a bit of luck in running. Part of his
concern and worry was for Jenny. She was a novice too. Would everything go right for her? Would she come back safe? If it was Len Lovett or some other jockey, he wouldn't be worried at all. He could now understand Ken's fears, couldn't ignore the flashing light in his brain that said: this is dangerous.
Perhaps that's why he was pleased to hear that Jenny's bargain with Ken said only two more races to ride in, followed by a review of the situation. She could still be part of his little operation - he desperately wanted her to be -
but in a safer way than riding in those fiercely competitive races against ruthless professional opponents.
Emily arrived early on her little farting machine, followed soon afterwards by Johnny. They had most of the work done when Jenny drove into
the yard, cheerful and bubbly as ever.
'Are you ready for the big victory celebrations?'
'Yeah,' smiled Emily confidently.
Johnny's response was more muted.
'Too soon for that ... good luck anyway, Mam.'
'Thanks Johnny.'
Garry overheard the exchanges, had his lines rehearsed.
'The flag is ready to hoist ... the champagne is on ice.'
'Bravo! Good for you Garry.' Her arrival as usual created a new confident atmosphere in the yard, and all felt uplifted by her presence.
Garry was about to take out 'Harmonica' for a walk.
'I'll do that, Garry ... I need to loosen up.'
She took the lead rein from him, paused for a moment, their eyes locked. The sensation of being close together again sent their hearts
racing. He felt like grabbing her in an emotional bear hug. She had to break eye contact with him to switch off the electric currents that were surging through her. Although it was unspoken, both knew they had to control their emotions and concentrate on the important task of the day: the winning of the
Tetredema Cup. Everything else would be saved for later. It could be a glorious day.
A massive crowd packed the racecourse enclosures. Bands were
playing, television cameras were everywhere. There was a carnival atmosphere, fashion, colour, revelry - a real sense of a big occasion. Garry and Jenny were focussed on the big race only - leaving nothing to chance in their quest for victory. They walked the full length of the course while Emily prepared
'Harmonica' in the stable yard. As they walked Garry was giving Jenny instructions as to the best tactics during the race.
'The pace will be fast. That's good. It will give you a
chance to tuck in behind the front-runners, settle the mare into a nice rhythm. Make ground gradually on the second circuit and be ready to pounce turning into the straight. You'll have three furlongs to go then, the hill to the finish will catch out some of the others - 'Harmonica' will be staying on.'
That all sounded logical to Jenny. The going was good to yielding, the course was beautiful, and the fences, though big, were well presented. It looked a simple enough assignment, but she knew it never was, the
best laid plans tended to go wrong in a race. That's where jockeyship took over. She felt well up to the task, as confident as any rider could be. She would have one big advantage - a high powered engine under her - 'Harmonica'
wouldn't let her down.
The runners and riders paraded in front of the packed stands led by their grooms. 'Harmonica' seemed to enjoy that, showing off with a little sideways dance. Her massive neck was arched, her head tucked into her
chest, ears pricked, powerful muscles flexed and shining. The experts watching were in no doubt that she was the best looking horse in the race, but were not so sure if she would win. She was a novice - having only her second run - with
very little experience for such a big race. Her starting price of twenty-to-one reflected that view. Garry wasn't too concerned. 'Harmonica' didn't know she was a complete outsider - she could belie those odds.
The horse that won it last year 'Tiger Tim' was again in the
field. He was the favourite - the word was that he had been laid out for this race all year, and would win it again. Large bets were being wagered on him at short odds while the others, including 'Harmonica' were being ignored.
When the starter released the tape 'Harmonica' broke well and was straining to go on. Jenny took her back to the tail of the field but soon realised that those tactics would have to change. There was no pace at
all, the front runners were dawdling along, reluctant leaders hoping for one to go on at a true racing pace. Jenny knew this wouldn't suit her mare at all. She needed a strong pace to jump fluently, make ground steadily and beat them for
stamina at the finish. She had to do something about it, and fast, if she was going to have any chance.
Jumping the third, a big regulation fence, proved difficult at such a slow pace - Jenny took action.
'Come on Girl!' Releasing an inch of hard held rein, the mare responded immediately. Soon they were ten lengths clear. It was now a real race, the others picked up too. 'Harmonica' jumped brilliantly, giving her rider wonderful thrills as she soared over the big obstacles, landing
galloping, holding her lead in splendid isolation at the head of the field.
Garry was spellbound watching through his binoculars in the stand. This was awesome, unbelievable, an incredible display by horse and
rider. With three fences to jump and a half mile to go, 'Harmonica' had increased her lead to twelve lengths. Only 'Tiger Tim' was emerging from the chasing pack. He seemed to be full of running, making ground rapidly, looking a
real danger. Jenny didn't dare look behind, but was conscious of one horse in close pursuit.
Over the second last and on to the last, the favourite was only six lengths adrift, with the others struggling behind. The crowds in the
stands were now in full voice, shouting 'Tiger Tim' on. They now felt they were on a winner as he continued to catch 'Harmonica' approaching the last fence. The two horses were almost upsides. Jenny didn't panic. Holding tight, she measured a lovely stride for the mare - they took off. Soaring high over the
big fence, they landed galloping. On the level now they battled it out stride for stride with Jenny showing her style and 'Harmonica' digging deep for unrelenting stamina and courage. Halfway up the hill 'Tiger Tim' wilted. The
massive effort to match 'Harmonica' took its tool. He had enough, had fought bravely, but was now a spent force.
'Harmonica' passed the winning post three lengths clear, to the cheers of Garry, Emily and a crowd of astonished race-goers, grateful to be
present to witness such a brilliant performance. They knew they had seen talent at its very best, a wonderful display of courage and stamina from a top class young chaser, and a marvellous tactical ride from a hugely talented jockey.
The scenes in the winners enclosure were unprecedented. Everyone wanted to press closer, to savour the atmosphere, to be involved in the celebrations. This was the stuff of fantasy - a local horse, a young trainer in
only his first year, a beautiful and brilliant new riding talent. To sensationally out-manoeuvre a field of top class competition and win this prestigious prize in such thrilling style was an incredible achievement. This was a knowledgeable crowd of seasoned race-goers that recognised star quality
when they saw it, and they were determined to show their appreciation. They packed six deep around the little enclosure as an overjoyed Emily proudly led in the belly-heaving and steam-blowing 'Harmonica' and her broadly smiling
jockey to a crescendo of cheers and applause.
Garry was waiting to receive them, feeling like a super-star with all the handshakes, back-slapping and acclamation. Jenny dismounted, and was immediately lifted up in a big bear-hug. She was out of breath, but wanted
to explain her change of tactics as she unsaddled.
'I had to go on, Garry,' she said apologetically, 'there was no pace at all.'
'You did exactly what you had to do ... used you brains,
Jenny ... you were brilliant. This lady was brilliant too,' he was patting the mare's froth-covered neck.
'Keep her walking around in a circle,' he told Emily, as he put on her sweat sheet. 'Let her cool down, then wash her and dry her off.'
He carried the lead-laden saddle to the weigh room for Jenny to weigh in, before meeting the assembled media for interviews. He was besieged by photographers clicking furiously, and the racing press swarming around him
all firing questions simultaneously.
When Jenny returned, showered and refreshed, they were interviewed for Irish television. Then Jenny, as the owner of 'Harmonica' was presented with the massive Tetredema Cup, while the cameras flashed and the
crowd again clapped in warm admiration.
The celebration meal was in 'The Long Man,' a big restaurant on the road between Gowran and Dream Valley. The old Land-Rover and paint-faded
horse trailer with 'Harmonica' happily munching hay inside, was parked at the rear. It wasn't very impressive, certainly not in keeping with the victory they were about to celebrate. Garry didn't care. He had proved himself to-day. He
was now a real horse trainer. He didn't need flashy, luxurious horse transport to show that. 'Harmonica' did it for him. Jenny did it for him. The future looked really good now.
The meal was sumptuous - the wine made it even better. Emily
again finished the bottle. The mobile rang in Garry's pocket.
'Is that you Garry?'
'The very fellow, Mam. How are you?'
'Oh Garry, we're so proud of you ... that was a great win
... we saw you on television.'
'Ah yeah, t'was great all right. Did you back her?'
'Back her! Of course we did ... sure everyone in the village had her backed ... the bar is full with them all celebrating.'