That was 2018, so it was

(Flat season)

By Donn McClean

The season alights as reality bites,

Straight into the Lion’s jaws. 

A Classic war, a Warrior’s roar. 

That was 2018, so it was. 

We knew from the start she was small but all heart. 

Dug deep when it really mattered. 

Emotions stirred. An Airlie bird. 

Her rivals Skittered and Scattered. 

A Roman sound, Guineas firsts all round,

You won’t hear the fall of the gavel. 

A Sovereign or two, a Leger on Kew, 

Have horses, have targets, will travel. 

Forever Together, Together Forever. 

The younger sibling on show

On Epsom Downs and softening ground, 

Oaks from acorns grow. 

A rider on fire. A trainer inspired.

From Alpha to Omega we go. 

A true starburst. A Royal Ascot first. 

And four Group 1s in a row. 

An Irish Derby spin after a mere maiden win. 

They said he was probably mad. 

To ride them is fine. To train them, sublime. 

Eleven more and he’s level with Dad. 

A Cesarewitch debate: no hurdles in the straight. 

The Low Sun must be in our favour. 

An Ascot Stakes gift: first, third, fourth and fifth. 

Not bad for a National Hunt trainer.

Stack’s Son shares the spoils at Ayr

As Bunyan Hits The best.

But what’s never in doubt is a Royal Hunt Cup rout.

You wouldn’t Settle For less.

There was a Cromwellian test, a French Princess. 

An act of courage to send her. 

And there was a wily sage, getting younger with age,

Another Prendergast Guineas contender. 

We’re missing a star, his name’s not on the card. 

But our thoughts are constantly with him. 

Positivity can. A remarkable man.

This race, he is destined to win. 

Curtains down and champions crowned. 

O’Brien and O’Brien and Crosse. 

A Futurity run, a 14th Group 1. 

That was 2018, so it was.