Authors: Paddy Cummins
'Oh, for heaven's sake, Jenny, you'll give me a swelled head.'
'Anyway, thanks a million, Wendy.'
She watched and waved as Jenny walked to her car. She waved
back and gave the 'thumbs up' sign. She believed she had won the battle against the odds - would now test it in the saddle.
Driving out to Shankill, about to branch off towards the riding school, she got that nauseous feeling again - worse this time. She felt
weak and hot. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead and she began to perspire all over. Stopping at the nearest lay-by, she slumped forward in her seat, lowered the side window. The fresh air helped. There was half a bottle of water
in the glove compartment. She drank some - it helped too.
This is disastrous. What am I going to do? No point in going any further, feeling like this - weak as a kitten.
She waited, tried to take long breaths. Gingerly, she got
out, walked a bit, came back, leaned on the car. She felt a little better, but that wasn't good enough. She tried to size up the situation rationally.
I can't go to the riding school like this, can't test the
ankle - must ring Garry at five - it's now three ... time is rapidly running out
.
She thought intensely. She really needed help now - there was none. God, if she was near Garry now - they could work it all out. What
could she do? She was really on her own, hopelessly isolated.
The logical and rational thing to do flashed across her mind. It was plain and simple. Just pop over to the Belmont Clinic, where her
husband was, and get herself sorted out - she would get VIP treatment. But it wasn't as simple as that - not for Jenny. It would be the last thing she would do - perhaps, deep down, she didn't really want her condition diagnosed - not yet.
Feeling slightly better, knowing it was decision time, she
went back over the situation and her options again. No riding school, no test of the ankle. The exercise bike, that's it. She would head home, should feel better by then. Half an hour on the bike would tell her if the ankle was okay.
She turned the car and headed homewards.
Getting on the bike, she felt confident. The sickly feeling had eased, she was a bit stronger now. To her dismay, she lasted only fifteen
minutes. The ankle was starting to ache, but worse still, the strength of her body had evaporated rapidly - she had to stop - it was no use - she just wasn't up to it.
Crouched on the sofa, with her elbows on her knees, her
hands holding her head, she sank into a deep state of depression. Weeping bitterly, sobbing loudly, her eyes flooded with tears of despair and disappointment. She was alone, sad and lonely.
She rang Garry. He was shocked to hear her cry into the
phone - his tears came too.
'Oh, Jenny love, it's not the end of the world ... in a few days you'll be fine again. That bloody fall in the snow came so soon after your other serious accident last year ... you just weren't able for it.'
'I know, I know Garry ... but I really thought I'd make it ... I've never felt so disappointed in my life.'
'No more disappointed than me, Jenny ... I thought you'd make it too ... but it could be worse ... if something happened you in the race
it would be disastrous ... they'll be plenty more races.'
'I know, Garry ... maybe it's for the best ... what about you? Are you happy about riding?'
'Ah yeah. Sure I've got the weight down now ... I might as
well. I think she has a great chance. It would be a pity to deny her the opportunity. You know, if she won, she'd be a champion.'
'Oh yes I know, she has to run.'
Jenny was now warming to the idea of 'Harmonica' storming past that famous winning post, with Garry in the saddle, getting some well deserved acclaim as the trainer and rider of a champion. She would get hers as the owner - the Champions Cup and twenty thousand pounds prize-money. The money
wasn't important. She would give it to Garry, he could do with it. But 'Harmonica' would be a champion - worth her weight in gold.
Her spirits began to rise. Her self-pity now seemed silly
and exaggerated. There was much to be thankful for - she appreciated Garry most of all. He never failed to sort her out, get her back in perspective. If only she was beside him now, she would kiss and hug him and never let him go.
* * *
The day was chilly and damp at first, but brightened up by mid-morning. Jenny was feeling surprisingly well. The ankle was a bit stiff after the bike, but okay. It would be well up to carrying her through what she expected to be an exciting day. She would be at Punchestown at one-thirty to
meet Garry and Emily. That would be an hour before racing started. Their race wasn't until five-thirty, the last race of the day.
She had spent much of the morning choosing her clothes and
working on her appearance. It wasn't the ideal preparation. She hadn't time to get a new outfit as she had expected to be in casuals, before changing into her riding gear. She was almost ready to leave when the phone rang - it was Ken.
'Oh, Jenny, I'm glad I got you before you left.'
'Why Ken? What's up? What's the matter?'
'Oh, nothing really ... just that I'm free now for the rest of the day ... I'm going with you.'
'You what?' She didn't mean it to sound like that.
'That's if you don't mind, Jenny.'
'Oh Ken, why should I mind? I'm delighted. Will I wait here for you or will I meet you somewhere?'
'Tell you what ... if you drive over here we can go in my car ... you can collect yours in the morning ... it'll be safe in the car park.'
'Super, Ken ... see you in a few minutes.'
This was extraordinary. She couldn't believe it. Ken coming
racing! She pondered his motives. Maybe he just felt like a day out. Maybe he was worried about her - coming to provide some medical assistance. Last night when she told him she wasn't riding, he didn't seem surprised, in fact he
appeared rather pleased and vindicated. Still, she would be glad to have him with her to-day. She was confident 'Harmonica' would win. It would be great for Ken to be part of the celebrations - they could all enjoy it together.
The traffic congestion was becoming a real problem as they neared Punchestown. They were glad they had a bit of time in hand. It was slow already, but would be impossible later. Snake-like car lines were forming on
all approach roads. The doctor's badge on Ken's windscreen helped to get them through some nasty gridlocks. Jenny's big smile acknowledged his ingenuity - his wink indicated agreement - it was fun. Jenny felt really happy now, being transported like a lady to the greatest racing festival in Europe.
'You know what Ken?'
'What?'
'I feel like the Queen of England arriving at Royal Ascot. Thanks for coming ... I really do appreciate it.'
'Thanks Love ... It's my pleasure.'
He felt really good too. It was a lucky break to get Dr French to stand in for him, allowing both of them to have a rare day out together. They would make the most of it - Jenny deserved that. He hadn't been
treating her great lately - would make it up to her to-day.
'You look like a queen too,' he flattered. He hadn't seen that lilac suit on her for at least a year - the wide-brimmed hat, he hadn't
seen that for several years. She really did look elegant. Whatever time she spent in front of the mirror was well worth it. The paleness and sickly look of the morning had completely disappeared. She was transformed into a rich healthy colour, the big white smile had returned - she looked just gorgeous.
'Come on, let's have a drink first,' said Ken.
'Right,' said Jenny, 'could do with a large one now.'
On the way to the bar they bumped into Andy and Madge Leahy,
who had just arrived.
'Madge! You look stunning,' exclaimed Jenny, 'and you too, Andy ... God, it's younger looking you're getting.'
Appreciating and returning the compliments, they joined
Jenny and Ken for a drink in the 'Owner's and Trainer's' bar - Andy insisted on buying. Ken protested - it was no use. They touched glasses and drank a toast to 'Harmonica' wishing her well on her big day.
Jenny and Ken went to the stable yard. Garry and Emily were busy. 'Harmonica' looked a picture. She blew her breath at Jenny out through her muzzle. She always hated that muzzle, kept poking Jenny with it.
'She wants me to remove this muzzle, Garry ... that nice
straw bed looks appetising,' she joked.
'Don't you dare ... do you want her to be choking halfway through the race.'
'He's mean, isn't he? Sorry Love ... you'll just have to
suffer on.'
Tickles and soothing strokes on the neck seemed to keep her consoled and contented.
Emily stayed with the mare while Garry watched a few races with Ken and Jenny. They didn't eat or drink. Garry couldn't ... he was at his
minimum weight - would have to abstain for another couple of hours. He assured them he would make up for it to-night with an enormous feast.
'You deserve it,' praised Jenny ... 'thanks a million for
the effort.'
'No bother, Jenny ... sure it crowned me ... I feel great.'
'You look great too,' said Ken, 'fit, lean and healthy.'
The big moment arrived. Ten horses and riders paraded in
front of the massive stands. Twenty thousand eager racing enthusiasts were admiring them, listening to their C.V.'s being broadcast by the commentator. It was an exciting and colourful scene. Ken and Jenny had a perfect view from the
stand reserved for 'Owner's and Trainer's . Jenny got that strange feeling again. That sense of place, occasion and wonderful history. The lush green expanse of Punchestown stretched out in front of her. The various white-railed
courses all converged at the entrance to the finishing straight, leading up to the famous winning post directly in front of the stands. For one hundred and fifty years those stands echoed to the cheers, as legendary horses and fearless riders fought fierce battles up that punishing straight. To horse-lovers, this
place was special - to Jenny it was sacred. She felt proud to be part of it to-day. But for her bit of rotten luck, she could have been even more absorbed in it, savouring the thrills, making her mark on its unique history.
Still, she felt proud and privileged. Proud of 'Harmonica', proud of Garry. Watching him parade in front of her, wearing her colours, taking her place at such short notice, was something she would always be
grateful for. She felt the emotions of it all beginning to overwhelm her. Her love for him felt deeper than ever. God, how fate had pushed them together on that day in this very place. Now they were back here again. It was all too strange to comprehend. Where will it all end? She felt a nervousness creep over
her. It was all so weird, so uncontrollable, but so beautiful. And the future? She'd leave that 'till later.
The runners and riders were now at the start. They had three
miles to race, one and a half circuits of the course, eighteen fences to jump. Jenny watched through her binoculars as they circled around the starter. Girths were being tightened, stirrup leathers adjusted, horse's minds being jerked
into focus. A line was formed, the tape flew, they were off!
Over the first fence, Garry had 'Harmonica' in mid division. She was keen, but he settled her beautifully, tucking her in behind a wall of horses. Jenny was fearful of one falling in front. Garry knew what he was doing
- wouldn't take unnecessary risks - would be able to avoid trouble. It was a really searching gallop - that would suit 'Harmonica.'
As they thundered past the stands with a complete circuit to
go, Jenny was delighted to see how well her mare was going. Garry was tall, but he had real style in the saddle. They were the perfect partnership, cruising in unison, taking the jumps on a perfect stride, sailing over them effortlessly, landing in a smooth gallop. It was poetry in motion, a real joy to watch. Jenny
was captivated - Ken was getting really excited.
A mile to go, Garry released a fraction of rein. 'Harmonica' instantly got the message. Lengthening her stride she glided smoothly past one,
two, three runners. She was now second, and still on a tight rein. The horse in front was travelling well too. Jenny could see that he was full of running. With three fences to jump, 'Harmonica' was only a length off him. Garry didn't
panic, bided his time. He knew he would get him up that gruelling home straight. His mare would outstay him - she had unlimited stamina.
He waited. Coming to the second last fence, he moved upsides the leader. The crowd sensed an exciting battle ensuing, were now in full
voice, shouting and cheering as the two horses approached the fence locked together. They rose. Garry heard a loud swear and a yell from the other jockey. His horse had caught the top of the fence, pecked on landing and unseated him.
Garry and 'Harmonica' were now on their way to glory.
There was just one worry. The other horse galloped on rider-less. He was on the inside and both would have to jump the last fence
together. Garry wasn't sure if the loose horse would jump the fence or dart out. He eased back 'Harmonica' and let the rider-less horse go a length in front. About to rise for the fence, disaster struck. The loose horse suddenly
darted across, ran along the fence in front of Garry. Both horses met in a massive collision. 'Harmonica' somersaulted over the loose horse, then over the fence, landing on her back, on top of Garry.
Jenny screamed. Ken grabbed her. The crowd gasped. For an
awful moment the mare was balanced on her back, her feet up in the air, Garry pinned underneath. She rolled over, struggled to her feet, then galloped off in a frightened state.
Garry lay motionless on the turf. The eight runners still in
the race jumped by the stricken jockey, fought out the finish in front of a stunned and silent crowd.
Jenny, Ken and Emily were pushing their way frantically down
from the stand. All eyes were focused on the area beside the last fence. The ambulance had skidded to a halt. Medical personnel were attending to Garry. It looked bad. To most experienced observers, he had to be seriously injured. Half a ton of horse pounding and rolling an eleven stone rider into the ground - he
had no chance. They watched and waited, hoping to see him helped to his feet, eased into the ambulance. Sadly, there was no sign of that happening.
The group of onlookers around the jockey increased. Why
weren't they moving him? A new wave of worry gripped the crowd. Jenny, Ken and Emily had now got through, and were out on the racecourse. Emily went down the track to try and catch 'Harmonica.' Jenny and Ken rushed to Garry. He was now
on the stretcher, being carried to the ambulance. Jenny forced her way to his side. Ken tried to restrain her - he failed.
Garry was lifeless, bleeding from his ears and nose. Ken leaned forward for a closer look. He held Jenny, now shattered with anguish.
She stared up into his eyes, desperately searching for a re-assuring expression - there was none. Ken was now devastated too. He knew only too well the awful truth - efforts to save Garry were futile. His internal injuries were massive
and multiple - it was a sad lost cause.
He held Jenny tightly as the ambulance, with its blue flashing lights slowly moved from the racecourse, taking Garry's body out and away.
* * *