I’m hoping we get some rain soon, as it would have been a busy weekend for me had the ground not been on the quick side.

My only ride today is Smackwater Jack in the novices’ hurdle over two miles at Wetherby (12.55).

I rode a piece of work on him this week at Olly Murphy’s and he was in good form.

He was beaten only a nose on his sole start in a bumper last season and has schooled well. He won’t be far away if he doesn’t find the ground too quick.

I also have one ride at Carlisle tomorrow - Aspen Colorado in the 2m4f handicap hurdle (3.10).

He was a surprise winner at the track last month when they went very fast. He was outpaced for a long way before he stayed on when the pace setters were stopping in front, so it worked out in his favour.

He will again need things to drop right for him but if there’s a good gallop he will have a chance.

It’s a long way to go for single ride but, if I am required, then I don’t mind travelling and do so regularly.

I will probably drive up with a few other jockeys from down south who also have rides on the card, which will make the journey easier.

Quick ground is proving a hindrance to plenty of trainers and it’s a shame that neither Thistlecrack or Bristol De Mai run in the bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on Saturday.

Despite there being only five runners, it still looks a competitive race.

Tom George is in flying form and Double Shuffle’s second in the King George at Kempton on Boxing Day is the strongest piece of form on offer.

He should go close, but I would be on Definitly Red. He’s a very good horse and finished third in the race last year.

I think it’s between those two.

I was impressed with Paisley Park, who I won on at Aintree last Sunday. He jumped well and to win a handicap off a rating of 140, on his seasonal debut, was impressive.

I’m not sure where he goes next, but I think the Betfair Exchange Handicap Hurdle at Haydock on November 24 would be an ideal race for him.

He is one to follow this season, wherever he goes, and will be an exciting chaser when the time comes.

I will have to be up early tomorrow for the trip to Carlisle, but thankfully the Breeders’ Cup isn’t on too late, so I’ll be watching it tonight.

There are plenty of British challengers and I’m especially looking forward to seeing Roaring Lion and Enable run.

It would be great to see them win but I think they are up against it.

Roaring Lion has had a long season, and this will be a different test for him and Enable.

It’s an exciting time of the year and I’m looking forward to Cheltenham’s November meeting in a couple of weeks.

Racing UK are giving away tickets plus the chance to join me on a course walk before racing on the Friday.

The closing date is on Monday so don’t forget to enter at racinguk.com/competition/aidancoursewalk

Aidan is sponsored by Racing UK, which is offering a one-month free trial to the leading horseracing channel – but hurry as we only have 3,000 to give away on a first-come-first-served basis. For more, visit: racinguk.com/freetrial