Back in May David (my husband) and I flew to England very suddenly, unfortunately, David's dad, Frank Clarkson was terminally ill and he asked to see us. Although it was a very sad trip with the knowledge we were saying goodbye and was a joy to spend time at the hospital for 10 days with him. Frank was and is an amazing character. He took the sponge of life and wrung everybit out of it. He left with no regrets.
David would read sports articles each day and I would make him cups of tea and help him to feel comfortable. One of the hardest days of our life was to say goodbye knowing it truly was, strangely enough I had gone through the same experience 3 years before with my Nanna Kelly.
During our visit with Frank a horse had been purchased by David's brother Paul at the Irish sales and while all together the horse was named "You'relikemefrank" and given the seal of approval by Francis with the trademark two thumbs up sign.
Frank passed away 20th May 2008 and on Wednesday 29th October, 2008 at Nottingham race course in the UK - at 14.40 pm "You'relikemefrank" will be in the starting gates. I am sure Frank will be watching and cheering him on from the pearly grandstand in the sky.
Our colours are orange (strength of self) and purple spots (spirit and no end).
HERE'S TO THE MAN - FRANCIS CLARKSON AND THE HORSE THAT CONTINUES HIS LEGACY......
An update on "You'relikemefrank" - he ran a good first half of the race only to fall behind the group coming 8th from 8. Overall for the first race it was experience and we can only go up from here.
ReplyDeleteIt was such an exciting feeling seeing his name in print and on the internet. Having such a connection is a great feeling and look forward to many more and winning experiences. Thank you.
"You'relikemefrank" had his second race in the UK on the 12th November and he came 7 from 8. He had good speed at the start and he has reduced the length that he was beaten from the first run out.
ReplyDeleteWith beating one other horse home and reducing the distance length he was from 26 lenths to 15 we feel we are on the right track. We are very happy and looking forward to some challengers and fun times ahead with our horse "Frank".