Dream Valley

by Paddy Cummins

  '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 did
n'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.'

  'Oh, that's great. But Mam ... how did they all know she was goin' to win?'

  'Sure I told them ... I knew you'd win, Garry ... didn't I say the Rosary every night for you.'

  'Thanks, Mam ... keep up the good work.'

  'When are you coming home, Garry? They all want to see you ... and to congratulate you.'

  'Oh, I don't know. I'm very busy. Maybe after winning the big race in Punchestown. I'll bring the jockey along too.'

  His winking at Jenny indicated he was only joking, but smiling, she nodded vigorously in assent.

  'Oh, that would be great, Garry ... we'd love to meet her ... don't forget now ... she'd be more than welcome.'

  'Right then, Mam, I'll let you go.'

  'Garry, before you go.'

  'What is it, Mam?

  I want a big picture of 'to-day' to hang up in the bar ... the biggest one you can get.'

  'Okay Mam, I'll do that.'

  'Good boy ... mind yourself now.'

  'I will ... bye Mam.'

  Jenny was fascinated. She heard every word - a lovely mother and son relationship. Her love and admiration for Garry was growing and intensifying by the second.

  They were now ready to go. After Jenny paid the bill, three happy people and a champion racehorse headed over the hills to Dream Valley.

  Emily was dropped off on the way, and soon 'Harmonica' was snugly installed in her stable. They retired to the kitchen. Jenny felt a bit jaded. She didn't relish the long journey back to Dublin. It would be wonderful to be able to stay the night and return in the morning. It was tempting but it would be a step too far, too dangerous to even contemplate.

  They were alone together at last after an eventful week that ended gloriously. It was time to celebrate. Garry turned to her, their smiling eyes met. A spine-tingling shudder gripped her. This was it, the moment she had been dreaming of, the moment that she had longed for all week and couldn't wait for. She took the initiative, wrapped her arms around his neck. Her heart was racing, her legs felt weak. He responded with a passionate kiss, showing her how much he wanted her too. She now knew the journey they were about to travel - she wouldn't hold back - she couldn't - she had to have him. For a fleeting moment Ken flashed across her mind, felt guilty. If he only knew. He didn't. He wouldn't. Anyway, she didn't care now. She was drowning in this wonderful sensation, savouring the sweet taste of this beautiful young man, her idol, her hero. Soon they would be welded together, and then? She didn't know what would happen, and didn't care. She would let it happen, whatever it was.

  Lifting her up, he carried her to the bedroom, laid her down on the bed. He wasn't as boyish as she thought he might be - knew how to undress a woman. Naked and trembling feverishly, she undressed him. He was everything she had fantasised, a perfect young body, she couldn't wait. A wave of faintness swept through her, intensified as he explored her with hands, lips and tongue from head to toes. She couldn't keep control any longer. Grabbing him, she rolled him on to her. With fountains of agonising ecstasy flooding her, arching, surging, moaning in a heavenly coupling of unspeakable pleasure, they soon reached a glorious simultaneous climax. Their ravenous hunger for each other was relieved but not filled yet. They did it again and again before their appetites were satisfied, then they just lay there in contented, happy exhaustion.

  'What have we done? He whispered nervously.'

  'Never mind, Darling. Whatever it was, it was magic.'

  He smiled in agreement.

  'Oh God, Garry, I'll have to go.'

  'Yeah, what a shame.'

  They kissed tenderly again, hugged tightly, dressed and soon she was on her way, a little weaker physically, but tons stronger in emotional contentment.

  * * *

  Jenny floated through the following week - felt on top of the world. In the office she had a new sparkle, a fresh bubbly enthusiasm, a new air of energy and well-being. Her closest colleagues could see the change clearly, but had no idea of its origin.

  At home, things were never better. Ken was happy and contented. She appreciated his warm congratulations on her big win. The huge Tetredema Cup stood proudly on the sideboard. Despite all his misgivings, he felt proud too. He could see and accept what a fantastic achievement it was, but he always knew that Jenny was a born winner - she was unique. That's why he was so protective of her. God, how relieved he was to see her come back safe and well, unscathed,
intact. He wished the next race was behind her too. Then he could relax, breathe a little easier, sort this whole thing out.

  Jenny had other ideas. Her glorious encounter with Garry was only the beginning. She had tasted and savoured him. He had excited her in a way she had never experienced before. She wanted more, much more, unlimited quantities of him. She could hardly wait 'till Saturday. With all her brains and intelligence she knew clearly how crazily dangerous this was - she couldn't care less. That's what made it even more adventurous and exciting. The exquisite pleasure of mixing Garry's brilliant bed-riding skills, with the breathtaking thrills of race-riding amounted to a potent cocktail that any woman in her health would get addicted to. It was a drug that once consumed, demanded to be repeated again and again, rendering her resistance totally and absolutely ineffective.

  There was no turning back now, for four consecutive Saturdays, the old bed rattled and strained, barely surviving the onslaught. It was breathtaking teamwork from two supremely fit, energetic and passionate lovers. Ravenous and hungry for each other, three, and sometimes four sumptuous dual orgasms were required to satisfy their appetites. Taking turns to lead and be lead, to ride and be ridden, it was pure ecstasy, heavenly bliss.

  Midweek at home Jenny would try to keep Ken happy, just about managing enough energy to satisfy his now fairly moderate sexual requirements. Tiredness was her excuse for celibacy at the weekends - he understood. That long energy-sapping journey, that adrenaline charged horse-riding, and all after a hard week at the office, was bound to take its toll. Midweek was fine - he appreciated it, took her gently.

  * * *

  Fatal Slip

  It was the Saturday before Punchestown, one of the biggest racing festival in Europe. Garry, Jenny and 'Harmonica' were ready. The preparations had gone well. The Champion Hunter Steeplechase was the target. It was an ambitious assignment, some experts said it was too ambitious. Garry or Jenny didn't entertain such negative thoughts.