Fontwell Park Racecard - Thursday 16th May

THURSDAY 16 MAY 2024

WELCOME FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

My team and I would like to extend a very warm welcome to this special Centenary Raceday celebration.

On a warm and humid 21st May 1924, Alfred Day first opened Fontwell Park Racecourse to a large crowd for the first of a two day meeting The inaugural race was won by the 5/4 favourite Gem, ridden by champion jockey Fred Rees

Since then, Fontwell has seen some big winners; in 1949, Monaveen won a race at Fontwell. This was the first racehorse owned by the Queen and the Queen Mother, and the only horse they owned jointly. The dual winning Champion Hurdler, National Spirit, won 32 of his 85 starts and five of those were at Fontwell, most notably in the Rank Challenge Cup Since 1965 a prestigious hurdle race has been run in his honour, attracting many equine stars over the years such as Salmon Spray and Baracouda, who won the race in 2001

Today, we are the only figure of eight jumps course in the country and host over 20 race meetings a year It is a privilege to be at the helm of Fontwell Park and share this very special anniversary with you.

In addition to this evening’s card which promises seven exciting races, we have a collection of memorabilia showcasing artefacts from the last 100 years, live music, entertainment and a special gala dinner taking place in the restaurant. An evening that, I hope, will be a fitting tribute to the last 100 years and be memorable for all.

Further to this special celebration today, we will continue to mark Fontwell Park’s centenary throughout the year and I hope to welcome you again soon

Guy Pridie Executive Director, Fontwell Park Racecourse

Fontwell Park Racecourse is part of Arena Racing Company which includes; Bath, Brighton, Chepstow, Doncaster, Ffos Las, Great Yarmouth, Hereford, Lingfield Park, Newcastle, Royal Windsor, Sedgefield, Southwell, Uttoxeter, Wolverhampton and Worcester racecourses.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

SPONSOR THANKS & OFFICIALS

Abandonment Policy

If the meeting is abandoned before the first race, a full refund will be made If the meeting is abandoned after the first, but before the third race, a 50% refund will be made If the meeting is abandoned after the third race, no refund will be made No refunds are given on the day itself Our head office will be in contact directly to offer you either a transfer or refund after the abandonment

Admission Policy

The management reserves the right to refuse admission to the racecourse without assigning a reason for so doing. We also reserve the right to eject any person from the racecourse without assigning a reason for so doing.

Baby Changing Facilities

There are baby changing facilities in the toilets of the Premier Grandstand and the Kerman Stand as well as the unisex disabled toilet next to the Nickel Coin bar.

Disabled Customers

Disabled customers pay the standard full admission price. For those disabled customers dependant on a carer to help them during a race meeting, their carer is admitted free of charge with proof either of Attendance Allowance PIP or DLA. There is a viewing ramp for disabled customers next to the Nickel Coin stand in the Paddock Enclosure near to the disabled toilet, and a viewing area at the winning line in the Premier Enclosure. There are disabled toilets on each floor of the Premier Grandstand also Disabled parking is on a first come first served basis so please display your blue badge for parking as close to the racecourse entrance as possible. For any help or assistance, please ask a raceday steward or member of Fontwell Park staff.

Dress Code

To access the Premier Enclosure, men should wear collared shirts A tie is not essential and smart jeans and tailored shorts are acceptable We do not permit jogging bottoms, fancy dress, sports or beachwear in this Enclosure. The Paddock Enclosure: there is no dress code in this enclosure apart from in the hospitality suites where the same policy as the Premier Enclosure applies. There is no dress code for children in either enclosure

Food and Drink

The only location we allow your own food and drink to be consumed is the centre course picnic area No alcohol may be brought on site whatsoever.

Emergency Procedures

Fontwell Park employs trained safety stewards In the event of an emergency which requires evacuation a public announcement will be made and the stewards will direct you to a safe area.

Enclosures

Paddock: If you have a Paddock ticket, you have access to viewing of the Parade Ring & Winners enclosure, the three viewing Grandstands, plenty of bars including the Figure of Eight National Spirit and Comedy of Errors Bar, as well as the catering units. You can also cross the track into the Centre Course for additional viewing and picnic areas

Premier Enclosure: A Premier Enclosure ticket allows access to the areas above as well as Fontwell Gardens and the ground floor of the Premier Grandstand This has additional undercover seating, Premier Food café & bar as well as additional tote points and flat screen TVs. There is also a terrace overlooking Fontwell Gardens.

To upgrade from the Grandstand & Paddock enclosure to the Premier Enclosure, simply visit the racecourse office and pay £5

First Aid

Located at the First Aid unit opposite the main entrance. If you require medical assistance, please contact a member of staff.

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No more fuss - take the bus

If you are coming racing at Fontwell Park by train don’t forget we operate a bus service for the nearest station at Barnham at a cost of £4 return The bus service starts two hours before the first race and operates a shuttle service to the course There are return journeys after racing. The bus drops customers off in the main car park and leaves for Barnham from the same point after the last race For further details call the racecourse office on 01243 543335

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Fontwell Park Racecourse would like to thank our sponsors and wish them an enjoyable and prosperous day’s racing

THURSDAY 16 MAY

(UNDER THE RULES OF RACING)

STEWARDS OF THE MEETING

RICHARD WESTROPP (Chief Steward)

ALLAN HEPWORTH (Stewards’ Panel Chair)

JOSIE BROWN-SMITH, STEVE DROWNE, KATE SMITH

STARTERS

JAMES STENNING

SAM AVIS

JUDGE

EMILY JONES

CLERK OF THE SCALES

ROBERT CUTHBERT

VETERINARY OFFICER

DAVID FREEMAN

VETERINARY SURGEONS

MATT WATERHOUSE, BVetMed, Cert EM (Int), Cert VA, MRCVS

KYLE LOWERY

BSc, BVSc, MRCVS

LUIS RUBIO MARTINEZ

DVM, DVSc, PhD, DACVS, DECVS, DACVSMR, MRCVS

SENIOR MEDICAL OFFICER

Dr LUCY FREE

MEDICAL OFFICERS

Dr RIZWAN GHANI

Dr ROB DENNEY

NURSE

MICHELLE FORSDICK

EQUINE WELFARE AND INTEGRITY OFFICERS

SARAH COLLINS

STUART SHILSTON

HELENA WARBRICK

COMMENTATOR

SIMON HOLT

SKY SPORTS RACING PRESENTER

VANESSA RYLE

BETTING RING MANAGER

VICKI MOORE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

GUY PRIDIE

CLERK OF THE COURSE

PHILIP HIDE

HEAD GROUNDSMAN

PAUL MANT

FARRIER

MARTIN HOGAN

PHYSIO

SALLY DUFFY

LEAD SAFEGUARDING OFFICIAL

GUY PRIDIE

DUTY SAFEGUARDING OFFICIAL

PHILIP HIDE

horse’s saddlecloth number colour since graphic

No.ofdays since last ran

horse’s name

birthplace of horse if not GreatBritain

form guide

previous performances

/=new season

-=new year

Bold type shows allweather form

C=coursewinner

D=distancewinner

CD=course &distancewinner

BF=beaten favourite

3 CELESTIAL HALO (IRE) (8) F-F3332

B g Galileo (IRE) - Pay The Bank

711-7

Harry Skelton

The Stewart Family Paul Nicholls, Shepton Mallet Br Roncon Churchtown Bloodstock Br & Lane LtdPotensis S

TIMEFORM VIEW In front of Karabak when thirdoverthistripatCheltenham in December.Asgood as everwhengoing down fighting in KingwellHurdlelastweekend andthe one to beat if in asimilarmood here TFR HHHHH BHA162

KEY OwnerBreeding BreederJockeyTrainer Sponsor Star Ratings Explained

Eachhorse hasbeen given astarrating, theseare definedbelow:

HHHHH Selectedtowin therace.

HHHHI Good chance of being placed

HHHII By no meansout of thereckoning but atleast one or twoholdstrongerclaims

HHIII Unlikelytowin butnot totallywithout hope HIIII Canbegiven little or no chance

OFFICIAL BHA RATINGS EXPLAINED

The BHA Handicappers allot ratings to horses once they have taken part in a sufficient number of races to enable the Handicappers to make a numerical assessment of each horse’s ability

The principal purpose of the ratings is to determine the weight to be carried by each runner in handicap races, with the Handicappers aiming to provide each participant with an equal chance based on its best recent form under its optimum conditions A horse rated 100, for example, would be set to carry 1lb more than a horse rated 99 (ignoring any penalties or allowances).

The ratings published in the racecard for handicap races are the ratings that were used to calculate the weight to be carried by each horse, whilst in non-handicaps races the rating shown is that of each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed Any subsequently published change to a rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating.

You may be asked to provide proof of your age when placing a bet

If you cannot produce this your bet will not be accepted

Head to the bar to enjoy yours today!

OUR SIGNATURE RACEDAY COCKTAIL

Taking inspiration from the 1920s prohibition cocktail - The Bee’s Knees, our centenary offering is a delicious blend of gin, lemon and honey.

Banjo Named by Jack Banner on Facebook. on

An original, innovative and eye-catching product for true horse racing fans & turf memorabilia collectors.

A superb compilation of badges of mixed age, shape & colour, from Britain’s 59 racecourses, mounted on artboard and housed in a quality frame. Each one is personalised to the customer’s choice. For further details, please contact: WILL LEFEBVE willlefebve@yahoo.co.uk

SilentAuction

We are pleased to be holding a silent auction in our restaurant and main reception area in aid of our nominated charities, Sage House for Dementia Support and Racing Welfare. Please take a moment to read about the excellent work these charities do and help us in supporting them

In the silent auction, we have some amazing prizes to bid on including:

• A Portsmouth FC signed shirt

• A unique badge board with a compilation of badges from Britain’s 59 racecourses kindly donated by the wonderful Will Lefebve.

• A Woods Travel excursion to a show of your choice at The Mayflower, Southampton, with coach travel included (local pickups - see brochure).

• Fontwell Park 3 course dinner for 4 including a private tour around the course by Barbara Hogan

• Family Day Ticket to visit Arundel Wetlands Trust.

• Brighton Racecourse 3 course dinner and course walk.

• Voucher for a round of golf for 4 people at Banstead Downs Golf Club.

• Voucher for a round of Golf for 4 people at Croham Hurst Golf Club.

• Voucher for a round of Golf for 4 people at Waterlooville Golf Club

• Voucher for a round of Golf for 4 people at Romsey Golf Club

• Voucher for a round of Golf for 4 people at Malden Golf Club

• Tour of Gifford’s Yard in Findon and a morning on the gallops.

• 2 x Richmond Enclosure Tickets for 31 July at Glorious Goodwood.

• Framed Lions Cub print valued at £250

• Limited edition Glynis Mills print (1 of only 10).

• Gold package stable tour and breakfast for 4 at Ben Paulings yard at Naunton Downs.

• A morning on the gallops with David Menuisier at Coombelands Racing Stables Pulborough.

• A visit to Richard Rowe’s yard in Storrington.

• A bottle of Disaronno and Engine Gin.

• A hamper with a selection of beers, low alcohol, a t shirt & glass.

To enter the silent auction, please put your name and telephone number together with the amount you are bidding on the form in front of the prize you would like to win.

Winners will be contacted by Denise Tilbury of Fontwell Park Racecourse.

Accredited quality by VisitEngland, providing you with a great day at the races.

Shop pictured: Curzon Street,

FIRST RACE 5.10

TWO MILES ABOUT ONE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 1F 162YDS) FOR NOVICE FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS FILLIES AND MARES

THE STAR SPORTS WE BELIEVE IN BOOKMAKING MARES’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE)

Total prize fund

£8400 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3505, 2nd £1753, 3rd £876, 4th £438. (Penalty Value £4574.64)

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): G & J Moore (73 wins from 342 runners, 21%) runs LAZED TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): G & J Moore (3 wins from 35 runners, 9%) runs LAZED LONGEST TRAVELLER: MORNING FORTUNE trained by R Potter, Sellack, 152 miles.

BREAK MY SOUL won hard held at Chepstow recently and might be to up to defying a penalty in this line-up The chief threat may come from hurdle newcomers, with Miss Goldfire and Shantwopointfive showing enough promise in bumpers to suggest they can make an impact in a race like this

1

B m Doyen (IRE) - Ayleoola (IRE)

James Bowen

Mr O. S. Harris Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

Br Pat Coffey

TIMEFORM VIEW Fetched £290,000 after landing sole start in Irish points Placed on first 3 starts over hurdles before making the most of a good opportunity at Chepstow (2m, good) 3 weeks ago. Taken to follow up TFRHHHHH BHA109

2 ARENAS DEL TIEMPO (GB) (32) 03-

B or Br m Footstepsinthesand - Vezere (USA)

Mr F Young & Mr D G Edmonston

Br Mr Robert Moss

6 11-0

Tom Cannon

Jim & Suzi Best, Lewes

TIMEFORMVIEW Fared better than on hurdles debut when third of 8 in maiden at Plumpton (2m, good) 32 days ago. Will need to step up on that form to go close here, though TFRHHIII BHA-

3 BING BELLE (GB) (171) 0-

B m Royal Anthem (USA) - Roxy Belle

5 11-0

Ben Godfrey

Mr Jack R. Barber Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster

Br Jack Barber Geegeez.co.uk

TIMEFORM VIEW 25/1, well held in Ludlow bumper on debut in November Off since ahead of this switch to hurdles TFRHIIII BHA-

4 DRISHOGUE (IRE) (8) 6/0U-F

Ch m Mount Nelson - African Keys (IRE)

Nick Gifford Racing Club

5 11-0

James Davies

Nick Gifford, Findon

Br Brian Griffin Avtrade Limited

TIMEFORM VIEW No impact in bumpers and has failed to complete in 2 course hurdles this spring TFRHIIII BHA-

5 HALLOWED ROSE (GB) (18) 22FP4-P 7 11-0

B

m Hallowed Crown (AUS) - Gold Approach

Robert Dunne

Mr M. E. Tucker Stuart Kittow, Cullompton

Br D. R. Tucker

TIMEFORM VIEW 0-13 in the pointing field so hardly an obvious type to make a winning start over hurdles. TFRHIIII BHA-

6 HURST HILL (IRE) (61) 46-

B m Arctic Cosmos (USA) - Nicat’s Benefit (IRE)

5 11-0

Daniel Sansom (3)

Mr J. H. Young Seamus Mullins, Amesbury

Br Thomas Keating

TIMEFORM VIEW Arctic Cosmos mare Dam (h97) bumper/19f hurdle winner Unplaced in 2 point bumpers (latest March 16). A watching brief is advised on Rules debut. TFRHIIII BHA-

7 MISS GOLDFIRE (IRE) (28) 1/0- 5 11-0

B m Yeats (IRE) - Miss McGoldrick (IRE) Lorcan Murtagh

Harry Fry Racing Syndicate Miss Goldfire Harry Fry, Corscombe

Br Mr John Connolly Grosvenor Sport

TIMEFORMVIEWMade a winning bumper debut in March 2023. That wasn’t a strong race and she actually bettered that form under a penalty when eighth of 18 at Cheltenham 13 months later Should be up to making presence felt in a race like this now hurdling TFRHHHHI BHA-

1-2-3: 1.BREAK

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

8

MORNING FORTUNE (IRE) (20) 635- 5 11-0

B m Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Nia (IRE)

Nick Scholfield

RS Racing (Syndicates) Ryan Potter, Sellack

Br Mr Matt O’Connor

TIMEFORM VIEW Placed on second of 2 starts in Irish points showed ability when fifth of 16 on 19.5f Chepstow hurdle debut 3 weeks ago. May do better TFRHHHII BHA-

9 SHANTWOPOINTFIVE (IRE) (42) 12-

B m Shantou (USA) - All The Best Mate (IRE)

Both Ways Partnership

6 11-0

Harry Cobden

Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn

Br M. Sheehy 1Account Ltd

TIMEFORMVIEW Irish point winner who was second in a Southwell bumper on her Rules debut 6 weeks ago. Interesting on hurdle debut under Harry Cobden TFRHHHHI BHA-

10 SILVER CHORD (GB) (22) 6P-

Gr m Linda’s Lad - Lily Potts

6 11-0

David Noonan

Mr M A. Bickell Chris Down, Cullompton

Br C. J. Down

TIMEFORM VIEW Minor promise in an Exeter bumper in December but pulled up on Taunton hurdle debut 4 months later TFRHIIII BHA-

11 BRIEFLY (GB) (24) 6323-

B f Passing Glance - Dont Tell Val

4 10-8

Sam Twiston-Davies

Mr A. Honeyball Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster

Br Mr John Benfield Geegeez.co.uk

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair form when placed twice in bumpers and translated that ability to hurdles when third in a 2m Hexham juvenile on hurdle debut 24 days ago.

12 DESIRABLE WALK (IRE) (-)

B f Walk In The Park (IRE) - Desirable Court (IRE)

TFRHHHII BHA-

4 10-8

Craig & Laura Buckingham Dan Skelton, Alcester

Br Craig & Laura Buckingham Manor Farm Bloodstock

TIMEFORM VIEW TFRIIIII BHA-

13 LAZED (FR) (173)

4 10-8

B f Authorized (IRE) - Lady Luck (GER) Caoilin Quinn (3) Druzhba Racing Partnership Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

Br Genets SRL K M Elite Products Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Authorized filly. Half-sister to 3 winners on Flat, including useful 9.5f winner Lady Te Dam unraced. A newcomer to note in the betting. TFRHHHII BHA-

14 WHAT AN ICON (GB) (86) 6PP-

B f Sixties Icon - Inffiraaj (IRE)

Mr N. Tucker

4 10-8

Bryan Carver

Chris Down, Cullompton

Br Mike Channon Bloodstock Limited Woodwarm Stoves

TIMEFORM VIEW Modest maiden on Flat and no encouragement in a trio of starts over hurdles. Had wind operation. TFRHIIII BHA-

2023: NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR

DECLARED RUNNERS 14 Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 3. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 4, 5, 10. Hood worn by No. 4, 14. Tongue Strap worn by No. 7. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 14. Stewards Note:

WHAT AN ICON: Following its run on 20/2/2024 it was reported that the horse made a respiratory noise.

Probable S.P’s: 7-4 Break My Soul (IRE), 4-1 Miss Goldfire (IRE), 5-1 Briefly (GB), 6-1 Shantwopointfive (IRE), 16-1 Arenas Del Tiempo (GB), 22-1 Lazed (FR), 28-1 Morning Fortune (IRE), 100-1 Hallowed Rose (GB), Hurst Hill (IRE), 150-1 Bing Belle (GB), 300-1 Drishogue (IRE), Silver Chord (GB), What An Icon (GB)

The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares

Mental Health Awareness Week

13 - 19 May 2024

MOVEMENT

Racing staff and racecourse staff are wearing green ribbons today to show their commitment to raising awareness and ending the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week this year is Movement: Moving more for our mental health. Movement is important for our mental health. But so many of us struggle to move enough. Going for a walk in your neighbourhood or around your workplace, putting on your favourite music and dancing around the living room, chair exercises when you’re watching television – it all counts!

Racing Welfare is committed to providing accessible, tailored mental health and wellbeing support services to all of racing’s workforce.

SECOND RACE 5.40

THREE MILES ABOUT TWO FURLONGS (3M 1F 166YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE STAR SPORTS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)

Total prize fund £8800 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3554, 2nd £1777, 3rd £889, 4th £444, 5th £222. (Penalty Value £4647.28)

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): A Honeyball (37 wins from 109 runners, 34%) runs NORTON HILL TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): N Mulholland (4 wins from 18 runners, 22%) runs EARTH KING LONGEST TRAVELLER: BLUE RIDGE HILL trained by S Drinkwater, Strensham, 148 miles.

EARTH KING has lost the plot over fences but is well treated on the form he showed over hurdles last spring and might be worth chancing back over timber in first-time headgear Island Run has been back to form this spring and is second choice ahead of Norton Hill.

1 NORTON HILL (IRE) (32) 3F2/114- D

B g Fame And Glory - Charming Leader (IRE)

8 12-0

Sam Twiston-Davies

Mr & Mrs J. J. Barber & Mr A. Norman Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster

Br The Charming Lads Syndicate Peckmoor Farm Lodges TIMEFORM VIEWBumper winner for Jack Barber who has been steadily progressive over hurdles for Anthony Honeyball, winning pair of 25.5f handicaps at Hereford at the end of 2023 Respectable return from a break when fourth of 11 at Plumpton (25f, good) last month. TFRHHHII BHA120

2 ISLAND RUN (GB) (10) 25043-2 BF

7 11-4

B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Penneyrose Bay Micheal Nolan

Sir Christopher & Lady Wates Philip Hobbs & Johnson White, Minehead

Br Sir Christopher Stephen Wates Philip Hobbs Racing

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual winner over hurdles and arrives on the back of placed efforts at Huntingdon (chase) and Kempton (hurdle) this spring Cheekpieces on first time Likely to go well again. TFRHHHHI BHA110

3

EARTH

KING (IRE) (25) P535PP- 8 11-1

B g Shirocco (GER) - Beach Beauty (IRE)

Harry Cobden

Mr R. M. Penny Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke

Br Messrs Eric Keane & Pat Keane

TIMEFORM VIEW Went the wrong way over fences last season but his hurdle mark has come down at the same time and he’s dangerously well treated if the combination of a return to hurdles and first-time cheekpieces spark a revival. TFRHHHHH BHA107

4 BLUE RIDGE

HILL (GB) (24) 3/505P4-

B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Asola Blue (FR)

Julia Venvell & Drinkwater Family

7 10-8

Robert Dunne

Samuel Drinkwater, Strensham

Br Yorton Farm Stud Tote, Solstice

TIMEFORMVIEWRunner-up all 3 starts in bumpers but only modest form since switched to hurdles, beaten just over 13 lengths when fourth of 7 at Hexham last month A first-time visor replaces the blinkers he wore at Hexham TFRHHHII BHA100

5 EMOTIONAL MEMORIES (IRE) (74) 302P3P- 7 10-8

B g Arctic Cosmos (USA) - Emotional Melody (IRE)

Mr Mark E. Smith

Br Mr & Mrs James Hannon

Tom Bellamy

D. J. Jeffreys, Hinton-On-The-Green

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEWShowed ability in a bumper and posted best effort over hurdles (albeit having set the slow pace) when third at Lingfield (23f, heavy) in February. Mistakes when pulled up over fences since and connections waste no time returning him to timber TFRHHIII BHA100

2023: SAN PEDRO (IRE) 6 10 2 Harry Cobden 5-4 (Paul Henderson) 6 ran DECLARED RUNNERS 5 Visor worn first time by No. 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 2, 3. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 1. Stewards Note:

EMOTIONAL MEMORIES: Following its run on 3/3/2024 it was reported that the horse was found to have bled.

Probable S.P’s: 7-4 Island Run (GB), 3-1 Norton Hill (IRE), Earth King (IRE), 6-1 Blue Ridge Hill (GB), 28-1 Emotional Memories (IRE)

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

Sage House in Tangmere is here to support you. Please call, email or pop in and we will be able to help.

Our Services

• Wayfinding - Free information and advice every step of the way

• Day Breaks - Providing daily respite care for your loved ones

• Health & Wellbeing - Dementia friendly hairdressing and therapies such as massage, bathing and foot care

• Activities - Bookable sessions to suit everyone including art, exercise, games and reminiscence

• Smart Zone - Learn more about dementia friendly technology and equipment to improve life at home

• Dementia Assessment Service - Provided by the NHS

• Training and Education - Supporting people living with dementia and their carers

• Daisy’s Community Cafe - Home cooked food, snacks, cake, coffee & tea, served in a calm space. Open to all 9am-4pm weekdays.

50% BACK AS A FREE BET

UP TO £25 + 25 FREE SPINS IF YOUR FIRST BET LOSES!

New customers only Place a real cash bet up to £50 and get 50% of your stake back as a Free Bet if your first bet loses + 25 Free Spins on Gold Horsey Winner Minimum stake £10. Max free bet awarded £25. Qualifying first bet must be placed at Evens (2.0) or greater, settled on the same day as registration. Free bet will be credited by 12 noon the following day and expire after 7 days Casino Free Spins – Each free spin has a cash value of 10p and credited by 6pm the following day and will last for 7 days Any winnings from the spins will be credited to your account as withdrawable funds. Offer valid from 01/05/24 to 31/05/24. Full T&Cs apply.

THIRD RACE 6.10

TWO MILES ABOUT THREE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 3F 104YDS) FOR NOVICE FIVE YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE DOWNLOAD THE STAR SPORTS APP NOVICES’ HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5)

Total prize fund £7600 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3070, 2nd £1534, 3rd £768, 4th £384, 5th £192. (Penalty Value £4013.56)

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): G & J Moore (73 wins from 342 runners, 21%) runs FLAMELCO TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): Dr R Newland & J Insole (4 wins from 20 runners, 20%) runs RAJJAMATAZ LONGEST TRAVELLER: MAWLOOD trained by G Howell, Tenbury Wells, 169 miles.

Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole have made a flying start to the 2024/25 season and their RAJJAMATAZ is taken to build on his chase debut promise at the second attempt having found the test too much at Exeter in March. He can get the better of Guivinec, who produced a promising first effort over the larger obstacles when a couple of places behind Millies Mite at this C&D last month.

1 FLAMELCO (FR) (27) F3P255-

B g Falco (USA) - Meldown (FR)

The Winning Hand

Br Mr A. Blin, Mme A. Blin, et al

6 12-0

Caoilin Quinn (3)

Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

K M Elite Products Ltd

TIMEFORMVIEWShaped like he was ahead of his mark when runner-up here in February and having been well held at Huntingdon next time, got back on track when 12 1/2 lengths fifth of 11 to Millies Mite at this C&D (good to firm, 4/1) 27 days ago. Each-way claims. TFRHHHII BHA96

2 RAJJAMATAZ (IRE) (52) 2/P505P-

Ch g Rajj (IRE) - Miss Muldoon (IRE)

6 11-10

Charlie Hammond Foxtrot Racing Rajjamataz

Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole, Droitwich

Br Mrs B. Byrne Foxtrot Racing Syndicates

TIMEFORM VIEWMaiden who shaped better than the distance beaten suggested sent chasing at Leicester in January and left the strong impression he found the test too much at Exeter (19.2f, heavy) in March. Firmer conditions could suit, and yard is in flying form at present. TFRHHHHH BHA92

3 MISS FEDORA (IRE) (59) 01P4PP- CD

B m Helmet (AUS) - Shahabad

Simon & Christine Prout

5 11-5

Micheal Nolan

Seamus Mullins, Amesbury

Br Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum We Do Vans

TIMEFORM VIEW Opened her account over hurdles at this course in November but been more miss than hit since (pulled up in 3 out of last 4 starts). Tries chasing for first time now. TFRHHIII BHA87

4 HOOKY STREET (IRE) (9) 5/0/P53-P

8 11-5

Ch g Shirocco (GER) - Academy Miss (IRE) Ben Poste The Goodies & Tricksters & Mr D Gillett

Harriet Dickin, Midford

Br Tom Radley Clay Street Property Consultants

TIMEFORM VIEW Maiden who ran to a similar level as on chase debut when third in first-time blinkers at Exeter last month. Ran a shocker at Ffos Las (16f, good to soft) 9 days ago and others look stronger back up in trip TFRHHHII BHA87 (-1)

5 GUIVINEC (FR) (27) 06P543-

5 10-9

B g Joshua Tree (IRE) - Castilly (FR) Rex Dingle

Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate - Guivinec Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster

Br Mr Loic Malivet and Mme Martine Malivet Olive Print & Graphics

TIMEFORM VIEWIrish point winner who made a low-key start in bumpers/over hurdles. Surpassed his hurdles form at the first attempt over fences when 3 1/4 lengths third of 11 to Millies Mite in handicap at this C&D (good to firm) 27 days ago and should do better again TFRHHHHI BHA77

6 MILLIES MITE (IRE) (27) 3364P1- CD

Ch m Zoffany (IRE) - Charmingly (USA)

8 10-8

Marc Goldstein

CS Partnership Karen Jewell, Sittingbourne

Br Raymond P. Doyle Karen Jewell Racing

TIMEFORMVIEWSeemed suited by the switch to front-running tactics and got off the mark at the twenty-seventh attempt at this C&D (good to firm) 27 days ago, making all and proving game when joined. 4lb rise fair and could well kick on now she’s off the mark. TFRHHHHI BHA76

7 YESNOSORRY (IRE) (179) 6624/PP- 7 10-5

Ch m Sans Frontieres (IRE) - Graces Island (IRE) James Davies

The Willow and Bridle Partnership

Nick Gifford, Findon

Br Mr Jay Kavanagh Avtrade Limited

TIMEFORMVIEWRunner-up over hurdles at Plumpton (15.9f) last March but has been underwhelming since, pulled up on both starts over fences in November Returns from 6 months off with plenty to prove TFRHHIII BHA73

1-2-3: 1.RAJJAMATAZ

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

8

(IRE) (156) 36/304P-

Ch g Retirement Plan - Maggie From Dunlo (IRE)

Bradley Partnership

Br Kealan & Stanley Clarke

7 10-3

James Best

Nicky Martin, Minehead

Charles Simpson Organisation Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Appeared to take a step forward when placed on third start over fences at Bangor in October but hasn’t really built on that and remains without a victory after 11 attempts TFRHHIII BHA71

9

ONNAROLL (FR) (27)

54P360-

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Sainte Borgue (FR)

Heartful Racing

6 10-2

Philip Armson (3)

Cynthia Woods, Crowborough

Br Mr Bertrand Compignie Tiger Resourcing Solutions Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Modest maiden hurdler who makes little appeal on chase debut from just out of the weights. TFRHIIII BHA69

10 MAWLOOD (IRE) (9) 4060P-0 C

B g Dawn Approach (IRE) - Kalaatah (USA)

Ms G Howell

8 10-2

Tabitha Worsley (3)

Georgie Howell, Tenbury Wells

Br Shadwell Estate Company Limited Drill Service (Horley) Ltd, NDS Equine Nutrition

TIMEFORMVIEW Little form last season and predictably made little impact from 7lb out of the handicap back over fences at Southwell (20.4f, good) 9 days ago. Can only be watched. TFRHIIII BHA66

2023: NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR

DECLARED RUNNERS 10

Blinkers worn by No. 4. Tongue Strap worn by No. 5, 6, 7, 10. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 9.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 6, 10.

Stewards Note:

FLAMELCO: Following its run on 19/4/2024 it was reported that the horse hung left-handed.

RAJJAMATAZ: Following its run on 25/3/2024 it was reported that the horse would prefer a quicker surface.

MISS FEDORA: Following its run on 18/3/2024 it was reported that the horse stopped quickly.

HOOKY STREET: Following its run on 7/5/2024 it was reported that the horse stopped quickly.

MAWLOOD: Following its run on 7/5/2024 it was reported that the horse made a bad mistake at the first.

Probable S.P’s: 11-4 Guivinec (FR), 10-3 Millies Mite (IRE), 6-1 Rajjamataz (IRE), 13-2 Flamelco (FR), 15-2 Hooky Street (IRE), 16-1 Miss Fedora (IRE), 25-1 Pencil (IRE), 33-1 Yesnosorry (IRE), 66-1 Onnaroll (FR), 100-1 Mawlood (IRE)

BETTING RING MANAGER

Please note the betting ring manager is now located at the end of the Performance Foundations Bar Lounge The betting ring manager should be contacted in relation to any dispute with the on-course bookmakers

PARADE RING

All horses must parade in the Parade Ring except by permission of the Stewards, but in all cases must pass through the Ring on the way to the Post

A WARM WELCOME TO OUR OWNERS & TRAINERS

Owners & Trainers may enjoy exclusive access to Fontwell House where there is a complimentary two course lunch.

If you require any assistance today please ask any member of the staff who will be happy to help you. For more information please visit www.fontwellpark.co.uk

FRIENDS OF FONTWELL PARK

Barbara Hogan –Fontwell Park Owners and Trainers Liaison

I was 11 years old when I first visited Fontwell races. I remember watching the horses parade and thinking how wonderful it must be to own one, to train one and ultimately to win a race with such a beautiful animal.

Some 34 years later I was at Fontwell again standing watching a horse go round the parade ring On this occasion, not only did I own this horse but my husband, Martin Hogan and I had trained him. Isam Top then went on to win his race with our two young daughters watching! Our first winner as Permit Holders. At that moment I was truly living my dream.

Martin’s grandfather, father and uncle had all ridden as jockeys at Fontwell Martin and I still work at all the race meetings there –Martin as Course Farrier and me as Owners & Trainers Liaison. We both love our work and although we miss training our horses it’s great to still be so involved and get to see all our friends and colleagues each time we are at Fontwell

Philip Hide - Jockey 1989 – 2010, Racehorse Trainer 2014-2019, Clerk of The Course Fontwell Park 2019-present

Fontwell has always been a special place for me. As a Jockey I rode my first ever winner in a 3m2f chase on a horse called Missing Man for legendary Findon Trainer Josh Gifford Over 80 more winners followed at Fontwell, with the most memorable to me being Lordberniebouffant in the ’01 Sussex National. I can’t recall breaking any bones at Fontwell over the years but had my share of spills and have no doubts that the locals would say I should have ridden more than 100 winners had I kept them upright. In the days of the water jump at the bottom of the hill I managed to fall, remount and only just get beaten on an odds-on shot in a novice chase!

As a Trainer with mainly flat horses Cougar Kid gave me my sole ‘Jumps’ winner at Fontwell (although it was in a NH Flat race), landing a nice gamble for some very keen owners It didn’t go so well when the same horse slipped up on the bottom bend a year later. Now that I am Clerk at Fontwell I am appreciative that the bend is a nicely cambered A/W.

I would describe Fontwell as a fair track for a horse and over fences a great place to educate a novice I am fortunate to have been working here in some capacity for over a 1/3rd of its 100 years and it is somewhere that I genuinely feel happy to be

When Alfred Day purchased Fontwell park in 1924 and won several races with over jumps and over the minimum trip of 5 furlongs I wonder if he envisaged it being as it is now 100 years later.

Fontwell park is a place for every Racegoer know matter how old or young to enjoy. Its middle car park picnic area has a relaxed family picnic atmosphere about it and Racegoers can safely get up close to the action

I first rode here in 1975 and had my first ride ever over the figure of 8 steeplechase fences. Fontwell park has stabled many famous horses over the years including Salmon Spray, Comedy of Errors, Baracouda who won Champion hurdles and other big races at the festival. I remember riding a famous horse here in 1980 which got beaten over 2 and a half miles a trip too short but went on win the RSA Chase at the Cheltenham festival in 1981 beating Corbiere, Wayward Lad and other top class horses

Changes over the years have been plentiful, the stables the new grandstand which is where I work now tipping in the boxes. The food in the restaurant and the views are superb and if I were to get married again it would be in the historic Fontwell House, set in its magnificent gardens.

Fontwell park is top of my list for a warm friendly place to go where near on 20 meetings are held every year

One sunny Bank Holiday afternoon in late May, many years ago, a schoolboy and his parents took a trip to Fontwell Park for the first time They had never been to the races at all before but it wasn’t quite warm enough for the beach and the little lad had heard about this mysterious racecourse near Bognor that never featured on the television, as was the case in those days They parked the car near the second-last hurdle, laid out their picnic, and every 30 minutes some horses galloped past them There weren’t many runners, and the family couldn’t see the finish of the races because it was too far away, but the youngest of them was hooked on the sport of horseracing for life On the way home he announced he wanted to be a racing commentator when he left school, which was something of a disappointment to his mum and dad, who had hopes of him becoming an accountant But they didn’t stand in his way and eventually he achieved his ambition at Fontwell and all the other courses in the country too. Then, in 2012, he became the regular announcer and raceday presenter here I wonder what I’d be doing now if it had been hot enough to go to the seaside that day?

Colin Brown – Former Jockey and Fontwell Park tipster

Lee McKenzieFontwell Park raceday presenter

Steve Bone – Local Sports Journalist

I’ve been a regular visitor to Fontwell Park for 17 years now, having made my first trip just before I took over as sports editor of the Chichester Observer series in 2007 Most visits are for work – but they always feel like social visits too. Over those years, I’ve seen many Southern Nationals and National Spirit Hurdles, and the Boxing Day meeting has become part of my festive schedule – it really is the ideal excuse to get out and about after the excesses of Christmas Day.

But away from the bigger Fontwell fixtures, I’m rather partial to the ‘everyday’ meetings – the Thursday afternoon in the middle of October, or a Wednesday in March. You might not see so many of the top jockeys or top-rated horses at those fixtures, but it’s still a good day’s racing and you can wander around to your heart’s content and watch seven different races from seven different angles if you so desire

You can go into the middle of the course and see the equine masters at really close quarters, or get up to the back of one of the stands for a completely different angle. I like bigger courses too – Goodwood and Cheltenham, for example – but there’s something about Fontwell’s size that gives it a charm that will always make it special

Richard Rowe – Trainer

I have very fond memories of Fontwell from when I first started as a Jockey, some light years ago now! I had plenty of rides there for Josh Gifford, who was a great supporter of the course and really helped launch my career The course itself needs knowing, as I learnt over the years, a jockey needs to know how to ride the track as there are areas where you can take a good advantage when you know your way round I’ve enjoyed so many good days at this my local track, too many to mention, initially as a Jockey and now as a Trainer and look forward to a continuing happy association with the course.

Down the years Fontwell has featured prominently in the race to become champion jump jockey In 1945-6, the first post-war champion Fred Rimell rode a double here when racing resumed after a frosty spell on 10th January. A broken collar bone from a fall at Fontwell in February didn’t stop Tim Molony winning his third title in 1950/1, while it was at Fontwell that Fred Winter rode his last winners of his first title winning season of 1952/3 A threetimes champion in the Swinging Sixties, Josh Gifford, became one of the great Fontwell personalities, both as jockey- (he rode his first winner at the track in 1961) and then as an equally popular trainer. While it was at Fontwell in May 1984 that seven-times champion John Francome broke Stan Mellor’s all-time record of 1035 winners, when he rode Don’t Touch to victory. Later John’s record was beaten by both Peter Scudamore and AP McCoy, who riding for multiple champion trainer Martin Pipe, were regularly amongst the winners at the track. Fontwell also played a role in three-times champion Richard Dunwoody’s early career. Working for the famously pessimistic Captain Tim Forster, Dunwoody was told one morning by the despairing trainer: ‘Good God! I can’t find another jockey I’ve got to give you the ride on Swordsman at Fontwell Don’t fall off!’ Richard not only didn’t fall off, he steered his mount to a comfortable success That earned him a very rare ‘Well Done’ from ‘The Captain afterwards, and it’s fair to say Richard never looked back.

Cindy Charrett – On behalf of the late Les Gilbert

As it is Fontwell’s Centenary, I feel I must write a few lines with regard to mine and Les’s experiences over the years.- Les believes he has been supporting Fontwell for roughly 73 years as his father used to bring him down I have done 50 years as the boys were small then In those days we would picnic in the car park and watch from the terraces. The buildings were, of course, different There was a Private Box on the bend of the track just after the winning post We had a lovely lady in the “Ladies Room” who never failed to put fresh flowers on the shelf above the wash basins and the place was immaculate We would eat and drink in the Bar and Conservatory and then, of course, Plans were passed for the building of the Premier Stand. I can remember the day Les, Jan and I came down - donned our high viz and hard hats and climbed up to the second floor There were only a few walls up at that stage but Les knew exactly where he wished to have his proposed Box! Eventually the day came for the grand opening and our Fontwell story continued A little later, Les had the opportunity to move from Box 3 to Box 2 as it was “nearer the Winning Post”!

One of the highlights was when we had a special “Morestead Retirement Raceday” on Jan’s Birthday. Morestead was such a lovely horse trained by Brendan Powell and in his 10 years of racing I believe he never had a fall We had a lovely function in part of the Restaurant and even though dear Morestead didn’t win for Les we shall always remember with fondness that day.

We have had so many great days at Fontwell over the years - too many to list You always endeavour to accommodate our wishes The staff both past and present became our friends and, indeed, we are still in touch with a lot of them to this day. SO THANK YOU FONTWELL FOR ALL OUR LOVELY DAYS WITH YOU. WE SHALL TREASURE OUR MEMORIES

Neil Clark – Author

SHORT TRIBUTE TO RONALD ANTHONY LEONARD ATKINS

MBE

by his slightly younger ex-journalist pal WILL LEFEBVE

If you were to ask any learned but nonracing individual what the initials “RA” stand for, it’s a safe bet they would reply either ROYAL ARTILLERY, ROYAL ACADEMY, RESTRICTED ACCESS, RISK ASSESSMENT, REGIONAL ASSEMBLY, RETURN ADDRESS, REAR ADMIRAL, or just possibly RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS!

Some might proffer ROYAL ASCOT, but ask anyone who has followed our great sport for the past half-century, and it’s a “NO BRAINER”!

Their answer would instantly be: RON ATKINS (I wonder if he has ever met his close namesake, the famous football manager who has “ON” attached to his “sobriquet”.)

How can you BRIEFLY sum up the career of this chirpy individual who celebrated his 81st birthday last month, but remains a standing dish at many southern racetracks 37 years after he hung up his saddles and breeches IMPOSSIBLE!

One of the nicest men you would ever want to meet on a racetrack, or in Chichester where he might treat you to coffee & cake, our Ron has “been about” since the early ‘60s in a multitude of guises:

JOCKEY… first career win on TUDOR METEOR, over hurdles at PLUMPTON over 60 years ago, followed by another 407 before retiring to become a trainer They included a treble one day, one at CHEPSTOW and two at SANDOWN, with, as he recalls, a speed limit defying one hour, 23 minutes dash by E-type Jaguar from WALES to SURREY!

Oh, I nearly forgot to say, Ron once rode in a race against LESTER PIGGOTT at Newbury, and came out on top. Incidentally, 43 of his career victories were achieved at FONTWELL

TRAINER…..landed some “nice touches” in his change of role and always “had the ear” of MARTIN PIPE

PUBLICAN…..landlord of three different pubs, in STOKEINTEIGNHEAD, FARNHAM & CRANLEIGH his neighbours at the latter included ERIC CLAPTON & RINGO STARR!

JOCKEYS ASSOCIATION… he was a safety officer, alongside great friend BRIAN ROUSE from Flat racing, for 27 years, and his strong views led to the removal of all rail-joining concrete posts on racecourses.

CONSULTANT; PUNTER; TIPSTER; PUNDIT; IMMACULATELY-ATTIRED “MEET & GREET” HOST AT ALL GOODWOOD MEETINGS, besides COACH TRIPS DOWN TO THE START THREE TIMES A DAY AT THE DUKE OF RICHMOND’S PICTURESQUE SEAVIEW / DOWNS VENUE

“In my role as safety officer for the Jockeys Association,” Ron recalls, “I used to walk the course with (then groundsman) Roger Mant He was a lovely man, and always listened when you pointed out something that needed attention or improvement”.

Finally, two recollections of RON ATKINS, a man who always talks common sense:-

“Scobie Breasley taught me to be patient when riding. He said ‘if your horse doesn’t “go” for one or two cracks, put the whip down’ and ‘always be the last to challenge’”. On modern day ‘changes for the better’ in the sport: “I’m pleased that a lot of Stewards nowadays are ex-professional jockeys, as well as some becoming starters and Clerks of the Course, like Philip Hide here at FONTWELL PARK

NO BETTER WAY TO END THIS ACCOLADE FOR A GREAT GUY…..”SIR RON”, perhaps?

A LETTER FROM JP McMANUS

My sincere congratulations to Fontwell Park on celebrating 100years of racing

This is a wonderful achievement and I can only imagine all the fun and enjoyment that the Racecourse has given to so many along this incredible journey. No doubt there were some hard luck stories and near misses along the way, but my heartfelt acknowledgement and sincere thanks to the many who kept the flame ofracing burning at Fontwell throughout the decades. I can recall Baracouda winning in my colours at Fontwell in 2001. Clan Royal was also successful in 2003 and Synchronised came third in 2010

Among a number of other winners at the track, Solar System and Aworkinprogress have recorded wins this year, so I have my own very happy memories of Fontwell Park. Toallinvolved, Iwishyou continuedsuccess and every good wishfor your Centenary Meeting on May 16th

Best Wishes, JP McManus

GROWING up as a racing-mad youngster in Shoreham-by-Sea, there was a natural desire to attend local race meetings, and Fontwell Park soon became enough of a favourite to bunk off school, catch the train to Barnham and indulge in a bit of illegal betting (albeit without being given a ticket from the bookmaker.)

One of the attractions of the figure-of-eight steeplechase course was that spectators could get close up to the action though, in hindsight, it was a bit dangerous to stand near the wing of fences, and safer to stand on the vacated starter’s rostrum.

The first time I went racing at Fontwell, it was with my parents who generously indulged my great interest even though my father came along only on the condition he be allowed to sulk all afternoon.

The day proved quite a miserable experience as it rained throughout, though I still remember a horse called Shawnigan emerging from the murk with a clear lead

There have been many much better days since and, of the occasions when I have commentated at the course, the National Spirit Hurdle victories of Beech Road, Lough Derg and Baracouda probably stand out.

Mistakenly, it is often thought that Fontwell is a sharp course that places more emphasis on speed than stamina, but the finishing climb is one of the steepest in the country and conducive to some dramatic finishes when the leader begins to tire and slow down

Sometimes, it has been a real specialists’ track and long-time regulars will remember Benny’s Boy, Certain Justice, St Athans Lad and Venetian Lad to name just a few

In my early days, John Francome rode the course extremely well (where didn’t he?) as did A P McCoy more recently, though I still remember one race in which a young conditional called Joshua Moore appeared to out-ride the champ up the hill

That certainly wiped the smile from A P’s face

Among the trainers, Martin Pipe, Jenny Pitman and, of course, Josh’s father Gary (many winners ridden by Jamie) have all been very competitive over the years but the course offers opportunities for many smaller yards to get a winner

One thing’s for sure, whatever the quality of runner, the racing is never dull at Fontwell and it has been my pleasure to call them homeperhaps at well over 100 meetings - in the past 30-plus years.

SIMON HOLT

AN APPRECIATION OF FONTWELL

by Steve Bone Sports editor, Chichester Observer series, Observer app and sussexworld.co.uk/sport

I suppose you’d call it fate Fontwell fate.

On my first visit to England’s only figure-ofeight jumps course, a social visit with friends from work towards the end of the 2006-07 season, I took a phone call informing me the Chichester Observer series had a vacancy for a sports editor and asking whether I might be interested.

I said I might be, but in the meantime I had some racing to enjoy at Fontwell Park – and enjoy it I did, winning a few quid from a 13/2 shot in the last, a horse called Mistified, ridden by Wayne Kavanagh Not bad for my first visit.

schedule – it really is the ideal excuse to get out and about after the excesses of Christmas Day.

It so happened that a few months later, I started that new job at the Observer – and my first week ended with. a visit to Fontwell, my first as the local paper’s sports man.

But away from the bigger Fontwell fixtures, I’m rather partial to the ‘everyday’ meetings – the Thursday afternoon in the middle of October, or a Wednesday in March. You might not see so many of the top jockeys or top-rated horses at those occasions, but it’s still a good day’s racing and you can wander around to your heart’s content, and watch seven different races from seven different angles if you so desire

In the 17 years since, I’ve been a regular visitor - and I love it But Fontwell is impossible not to love, isn’t it?

I’ve nothing against the bigger racecourses – in fact Goodwood and Cheltenham are, so far, the only other two I’ve visited and I love them too – but there’s something about Fontwell’s size and layout that makes it just perfect.

One of my favourite trips was an off-duty one with my friend Mark Storey, who some may know from the Racing Post We got the train, and the free bus from Barnham station, watched the racing, lost some cash to the bookies, had a couple of pints, and off we went home via the Barnham chippy What’s not to like?

In my early days at the Observer I got to know Fontwell’s then boss, the legendary Phil Bell, very well. He gave me some nice stories and we were first with news of plans for the new Premier Grandstand

As a reporter it’s nice to go into the winner’s enclosure and hear from the trainers, the riders who were first past the post, or pick the brains of font-of-all-knowledge Lee McKenzie, who is generally on the mic.

It was a shame when Phil moved on, though it’s great he now has a regional role that

regional includes responsibility for his old haunt. But s haunt. our coverage of – and my visits to – Fontwell r cove – visits to –continued and it was always a key venue was a among those where we went for our sport g those went reports and pictures. s

I talked of Phil Bell earlier and what a good contact he was, and now the man at the helm is Guy Pridie After a period, started I think by Covid and the subsequent lockdowns, where our Fontwell coverage tailed off, I am starting to work with Guy on

I am to Guy am how we at the Observer can help raise the raise racecourse’s profile.

I’ve seen many Southern Nationals and many Southern National Spirit Hurdles, and the Boxing Day meeting has become part of my festive y meeting has become my festive

Let’s hope this centenary year is one that s hope year shows to those who don’t know, or have s or forgotten, what a jewel in our crown Fontwell a in crown Park is – and how it deserves lots of local love Pa – it and attention. And a few more 13/2 winners d a more would be nice too d too.

GREAT BRITAIN’S “BAND” OF RACECOURSE COMMENTATORS

IAN BARTLETT

JOHN BLANCE

MIKE CATTERMOLE

ANTHONY ENNIS

DAVID FITZGERALD

MARTIN HARRIS

RICHARD HOILES

SIMON HOLT

ALAN HOWES

JOHN HUNT

TIM PETERS

take this opportunity to congratulate all those involved at Fontwell Park on reaching their Centenary May 21, 1924 - May 16, 2024

MARK JOHNSON

DARREN OWEN

STEVEN POWELL

MARK SLATER

DEREK THOMPSON [“hey big fella!”]

GARETH TOPHAM

“Our joint donation in association with this well-deserved tribute is going straight to the INJURED JOCKEYS FUND”.

Well done FONTWELL PARK!

WE STILL BELIEVE IN THE RING

From Cheltenham to the Curragh, while other firms choose to sell their pitches, we continue to stand proud at major tracks across the UK and Eire. Look out for us next time you’re on-course

Webelieve inbookmaking

FOURTH RACE 6.40

TWO MILES ABOUT ONE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 1F 162YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE STARSPORTS.BET HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5)

Total prize fund

£7600 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3070, 2nd £1534, 3rd £768, 4th £384, 5th £192. (Penalty Value £4013.56)

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): G & J Moore (73 wins from 342 runners, 21%) runs EXECUTIVE POOL & TARA ITI TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): N Mulholland (4 wins from 18 runners, 22%) runs EMANATE LONGEST TRAVELLER: MAC BE LUCKY trained by E Williams, Llancarfan, 159 miles.

MERMAIDS CAVE was having just her second start for James Owen when scoring in decisive fashion here last week and a 7lb penalty may not be enough to prevent a follow-up success Tara Iti and Mac Be Lucky can also make their presence felt.

1 CLINTON LANE (GB) (24) 50001P- CD 6 12-0

Ch g Linda’s Lad - Midnight Seranade (IRE) Fergus Gillard

Mr T. J. C. Seegar

Br Whitegate Stud

Mark Gillard, Sherborne

TIMEFORMVIEW Caused a surprise when taking heavy-ground maiden over C&D in March but possibly amiss when pulled up at Hexham since and clearly comes with risks attached TFRHHIII BHA100

2 MERMAIDS CAVE (IRE) (8) 00030-1 C

B m Court Cave (IRE) - Kylebeg Dancer (IRE)

Keaveney, Butcher & Partners

Br Ms Geraldine Regan

5 11-9 (in 7lb ex)

Mr Alex Chadwick (7)

James Owen, Newmarket

Keaveney Contractors Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Left yard-debut effort behind when winning 9-runner handicap hurdle at this course (19.1f, good) 8 days ago, comfortably 7lb penalty to carry now but looks the one to beat TFRHHHHH BHA88 (+11)

3 TARA ITI (GB) (9) 4034P-3 CD

Ch g Sixties Icon - Royal Warranty

Mark Albon and Gary Moore

6 11-8

Rob Hargreaves (7)

Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

Br Mr & Mrs C. Bonner K M Elite Products Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW C&D winner who returned to form when third of 9 in handicap hurdle at Fakenham (16f, good) 9 days ago. Races off same mark and warrants respect. TFRHHHHI BHA94 (-1)

4 AT A PINCH (GB) (36) 16/UPP0-

B m Lope de Vega (IRE) - Inchina

6 11-7

Kevin Brogan

Mr Andrew McGladdery Toby Lawes, Beare Green

Br Hascombe & Valiant Stud Ltd Lawmens Limited

TIMEFORM VIEW Yet to offer much in a handful of starts for this yard, well held at Market Rasen latest TFRHIIII BHA93

5 SASSIFIED (IRE) (182) 115106- C D

6 11-7

Ch g Excelebration (IRE) - Satwa Pearl Micheal Nolan

Mr John P. McManus

Br 21st Century Farms Ltd

Philip Hobbs & Johnson White, Minehead

TIMEFORMVIEWNotched third success of the year when readily seeing off 11 rivals at this course (19f, good) in October. Below that form twice since but returns from a break and may have ground conditions to suit. TFRHHHII BHA93

6 PHIL HEALY (IRE) (20) 034/53//0- 8 11-6

B m Shirocco (GER) - Ariels Serenade (IRE)

Charlie Hammond

Miss G. Tuck Joe Ponting, Wotton-Under-Edge

Br Michael Moloney

TIMEFORM VIEW Bits and pieces of form for Graeme McPherson back in 2021 but made little impression on first start for new connections after a long absence last month. TFRHIIII BHA92

7 RAY’S THE ONE (GB) (27) 46/0040- CD

B g Mount Nelson - Tenpence

M I Pattinson Racing

Br Dullingham Park

7 11-3

James Best

Mark Pattinson, Epsom

TIMEFORM VIEW C&D winner but arrives out of sorts and is hard to make a solid case for. Cheekpieces back on TFRHHIII BHA89

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

8

EMANATE (GB) (24) P11450-

B g Coach House (IRE) - Emerald Girl (IRE)

6 11-0

Sam Twiston-Davies

Mr John Heaney Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke

Br Heaney Family

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual 2m winner at Worcester in late summer but below par of late on the Flat at Wolverhampton and was similar story back in this sphere at Kempton last month. TFRHHIII BHA86

9 EXECUTIVE POOL

(GB) (27) 0P0U45-

B g Churchill (IRE) - She’s So Flawless (IRE)

5 10-12

Caoilin Quinn (3)

The Dubai Five Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

Br Petches Farm Ltd K M Elite Products Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Not scored since last year and hasn’t done enough in recent outings to make him of real interest here TFRHHIII BHA84

10 GORCOMBE MOONSHINE

B g Alqaahir (USA) - Seemma

(GB) (25) 3/13U4F- CD 7 10-6

Harry Kimber

Mr Phill Meaden Robert Walford, Blandford

Br Mr Phill Meaden

TIMEFORM VIEW Several placed efforts in this sphere before making a winning start over fences here on Boxing Day. Had a couple of mishaps over larger obstacles more recently and bit to prove back over timber now. Cheekpieces back on TFRHHIII BHA78

11 MAC BE LUCKY

(GB) (56) P/140P/3- 7 10-4

B g Yorgunnabelucky (USA) - Macnance (IRE)

Keith and Sue Lowry

Br Mrs S. Lowry

Adam Wedge

Evan Williams, Llancarfan

TIMEFORM VIEW Back from 15 months off when good third of 9 in handicap hurdle at Chepstow (16f, soft) 56 days ago. Remains fairly treated and is not out of things. TFRHHHII BHA76

12 AFRICAN SUN (IRE)

(142) 556000- 7 10-2

B g Teofilo (IRE) - Castle Cross (IRE)

Harriet Tucker (7)

Joanne Thomason-Murphy Joanne Thomason-Murphy, Chelmsford

Br P & B Bloodstock

First Solar PV Limited

TIMEFORM VIEW Been some time since he troubled the judge and can only be watched. 7lb out of the handicap TFRHIIII BHA67

2023: HE’S A LATCHICO (IRE) 5 11 3 Jamie Moore 5-2 (Gary Moore) 12 ran DECLARED RUNNERS 12 Blinkers worn by No. 9. Tongue Strap worn by No. 7. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12. Stewards Note: CLINTON LANE: Following its run on 22/4/2024 it was reported that the horse stopped quickly.

ProbableS.P’s:7-4MermaidsCave(IRE),11-2MacBeLucky(GB),15-2TaraIti(GB),10-1GorcombeMoonshine(GB), 11-1 Sassified (IRE), 20-1 Clinton Lane (GB), 25-1 Emanate (GB), Executive Pool (GB), 33-1 Ray’s The One (GB), 40-1 Phil Healy (IRE), 50-1 African Sun (IRE), 100-1 At A Pinch (GB)

CUSTOMERS OF THE BOARDS

All racegoers should check their itemised tickets immediately on receipt, as mistakes cannot be rectified after the “off”. Customers are reminded to retain all betting tickets until after the weigh-in, as immediate payment will be made only on production of the original ticket

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FIFTH RACE 7.10

TWO MILES ABOUT THREE FURLONGS (2M 3F 29YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE STAR SPORTS BEST ODDS GUARANTEED HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)

Total prize fund

£8800 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3554, 2nd £1777, 3rd £889, 4th £444, 5th £222. (Penalty Value £4647.28) Weights raised 4lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): G & J Moore (73 wins from 342 runners, 21%) runs JOLYJUMP TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): C Gordon (4 wins from 14 runners, 29%) runs BADDESLEY LONGEST TRAVELLER: THAHAB IFRAJ trained by Alexandra Dunn, Wellington, 136 miles.

This looks a fair race for the field size with JOLYJUMP just about the most persuasive option having shaped well in second from this mark at Fakenham last week Hecouldbetheone won here last time and his revised mark is perfectly fair, with Baltray another potential improver now handicapping back from a break

1

HECOULDBETHEONE (IRE) (27)

2//55601- CD 7 12-0

B g Shirocco (GER) - Shecouldbetheone (IRE)

Mr Alex Chadwick (7)

Mr & Mrs R Sage James Owen, Newmarket

Br Denis Cusack TIMEFORMVIEWDualnovicehurdlewinnerforGaryMoorein2021/22 Showedheretainsabilityin2outingsoverfencesforChrisGordonbackfromanabsence at the end of 2023 and he landed a few bets in first-time cheekpieces in a 19.2f handicap hurdle here last month. Big player up 7lb. TFRHHHHI BHA116

2 CAPE VIDAL (GB) (27) 002/1P3- CD

B g Kayf Tara - Midnight Minx

7 11-10

Sam Twiston-Davies Potwell Racing Syndicate III

Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster

Br Goldline Stud (Mrs J. Mann) Geegeez.co.uk

TIMEFORMVIEWDidn’t go on as hoped in bumpers after a winning debut but made second hurdles start a winning one over C&D in October Quickly cast aside Ludlow run (lost his action) when third to Hecouldbetheone back here a month ago. TFRHHHII BHA112

3 BALTRAY (IRE) (192) 3/21-

B g Milan - Shapley Shadow (IRE)

6 11-10

Tom Bellamy

Mrs Sarah Metcalfe Emma Lavelle, Marlborough

Br Mrs Martina Doran Hatherden Horse Transport

TIMEFORMVIEWThird in Limerick bumper and has quickly made up into a fairly useful hurdler for his new yard, readily landing the odds in 2m3f novice at Hereford in November Very likely there’s more to come now handicapping for in-form yard TFRHHHHI BHA112

4 BADDESLEY (IRE) (66) 513601- C

B g Presenting - Fox Theatre (IRE)

Mr L. Gilbert

9 11-3

Freddie Gordon (5)

Chris Gordon, Winchester

Br Ms N. Metcalfe Goodwin Racing Ltd, Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

TIMEFORMVIEWTemperamental sort but cast aside a couple of heavy defeats over fences when landing 5-runner handicap chase at Plumpton in March. Up 5lb and others more convincing betting propositions returned to hurdling TFRHHHII BHA105

5 JOLYJUMP (FR) (9) 00P1-2

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Pepite du Mathan (FR)

5 10-11

Caoilin Quinn (3)

Mr Jerry Hinds & Mr Ashley Head Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

Br Mrs D Saliou & Haras de La Haie Neuve K M Elite Products Ltd

TIMEFORMVIEWProved a different proposition on handicap debut after 12 weeks off as he landed extended 2m Taunton contest last month. Found only a fellow improver too good upped to 20f (despite not getting a clear run at things) last week and there’s more to come TFRHHHHH BHA99 (+1)

6 THAHAB IFRAJ (IRE) (217) 60/0661- C D

Ch g Frozen Power (IRE) - Penny Rouge (IRE)

The Dunnitalls

Br P. G. Lyons

11 10-11

Harry Cobden

Alexandra Dunn, Wellington

TIMEFORM VIEW Winner here over 17.7f last summer and cashed in on a career-low mark when last seen in October. Record fresh suggests he may just need this TFRHHHII BHA99

2023: IN THE AIR (FR) 5 12 0 Jamie Moore 11-4 (Gary Moore) 5 ran

DECLARED RUNNERS 6 Tongue Strap worn by No. 2. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 1, 4.

Probable S.P’s: 5-2 Baltray (IRE), 3-1 Jolyjump (FR), 7-2 Hecouldbetheone (IRE), 9-1 Baddesley (IRE), 10-1 Cape Vidal (GB), 11-1 Thahab Ifraj (IRE)

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

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SIXTH RACE 7.40

TWO MILES ABOUT ONE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 1F 165YDS) FOR FIVE YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE starsportsbet.co.uk HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5)

Total prize fund £7600 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3070, 2nd £1534, 3rd £768, 4th £384, 5th £192. (Penalty Value £4013.56)

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): G & J Moore (73 wins from 342 runners, 21%) runs CALL OFF THE DOGS TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (9 wins from 43 runners, 21%) runs LONE SOLDIER

WEIGHTWATCHER: CALL OFF THE DOGS won off a handicap mark of 96, his rating is now down 6lb to 90. LONGEST TRAVELLER: BLAZE A TRAIL trained by J & R Flint, Bridgend, 190 miles.

LONE SOLDIER showed more than previously over hurdles equipped with a first time tongue strap when third at Wetherby (2m) in March and he could be worth chancing to build on that from his low mark now his attentions switch to larger obstacles. Kalkas and Ferrybridge may emerge as the chief threats

1 BLAZE A TRAIL (IRE) (25) 3622P2- CD

B g Morozov (USA) - Bright Blaze (IRE)

10 12-0

Connor Brace Belly’s Heroes

John & Rhys Flint, Bridgend Br J. H. Kidd Tote

TIMEFORMVIEWRattled off a 5-timer over fences in 2022 (twice over C&D) and he ran well on the back of 7 months off when second of 5 in handicap chase at Wincanton (15.7f) 25 days ago. Return to this slightly longer trip will help and he’s respected. TFRHHHII BHA100

2 KALKAS (FR) (27) 0/6P462-

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Fortunateencounter (FR)

8 11-10

Tom Cannon Old Bloxhamist Racing

Billy Aprahamian, Towcester

Br S.A.R.L. Neustrian Associates Fairfax and Favor Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEWFairly useful chaser at best for Henry de Bromhead during 2021/22. Not at same level these days but he did turn in his best effort for present connections when second of 11 in handicap chase here (19.5f) 4 weeks ago, no extra close home Claims with a repeat TFRHHHHI BHA96

3 FERRYBRIDGE

(IRE) (9) 53315-3

Ch g Valirann (FR) - Star Seventeen

6 11-6

Lilly Pinchin

Think Big Partnership James Owen, Newmarket

Br Martin Moloney

TIMEFORM VIEWA fair winning hurdler/chaser who was left clear at the last when opening his account in a handicap chase at Huntingdon (16.5f, good to soft) in March. Respectable third from this mark at Hereford (2m) 9 days ago and likely to give it another good go TFRHHHHI BHA92

4

CALL

OFF

THE DOGS

(IRE) (22) 21//PP44- C

Ch g Bienamado (USA) - Lady Charmere (IRE)

9 11-4

Caoilin Quinn (3)

Mr Brian Tetley Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

Br Mr Padraig McKernan K M Elite Products Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Career best when winning 5-runner handicap chase at Plumpton (25.7f, good) in 2022 Missed whole of last year and belatedly showed he retains ability when fourth of 12 at Taunton (21.7f) 3 weeks ago. On a career-low mark if he can back that up now. TFRHHHII BHA90

5 LONE

SOLDIER (GB)

(58) 6/06633-

6 11-0

B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Alegralil Fergus Gillard

Mr Frank McAleavy

Br J. R. Hales & Miss L. J. Hales

Dan Skelton, Alcester

Ladbrokes, The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire)

TIMEFORM VIEW Maiden hurdler who showed more than previously with a tongue tie added when third at Wetherby (2m, heavy) in March, encouragingly finding far more than previously Operating from a very low mark and he’s worth a second look now chasing TFRHHHHH BHA86

6 BERLAIS

DU GEORGE (GB) (45) 0/4606- 5 10-10

B g Clovis du Berlais (FR) - She’s da One (IRE)

Micheal Nolan

S Mullins Racing Club Seamus Mullins, Amesbury

Br Paul Nicholls We Do Vans

TIMEFORMVIEWEncouraging signs when fourth in novice on hurdles debut at Plumpton in October but gone wrong way since, finishing well held on handicap debut at same course latest. Plenty to prove over larger obstacles here TFRHHIII BHA82

2023: NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR

DECLARED RUNNERS 6 Hood worn by No. 1, 3. Blinkers worn by No. 4. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 5. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2.

Probable S.P’s: 3-1 Lone Soldier (GB), 10-3 Kalkas (FR), 7-2 Ferrybridge (IRE), 9-2 Blaze A Trail (IRE), 6-1 Call Off The Dogs (IRE), 25-1 Berlais du George (GB)

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

FONTWELL PARK PRIZE MONEY

The Horserace Betting Levy Board prize fund schemes provide for the estimated inclusion of £147,419 in ratecard and incremental prize money at this racecourse from 23rd March to 23rd June 2024.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

To view and purchase raceday photographs, Owners & Trainers can visit www.fontwellracingphotos.co.uk or contact the Racecourse Office on 01243 543335 or email info@fontwellpark.co.uk.

Customers may take photographs for private purposes. Under no circumstances can they be used for publication. Please do not use flash photography near the horses

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HORSE AND JOCKEY WELFARE AT FONTWELL PARK

Nothing matters more to us when racing than the safety and welfare of both horse and rider. Central to that is the track itself and our groundstaff do everything in their power to provide an optimum racing surface On duty today we also have a dedicated and experienced team of highly-qualified Vets, Doctors and Paramedics following the action at every stage. Their key responsibility is to monitor and provide care to the competitors throughout their time at the racecourse The locations and vehicle movements of these skilled specialists during racing are designed to provide a rapid response to any incident across the site We also have a high-specification horse ambulance in attendance at every fixture to enable safe transport of a horse from the track to our on-site veterinary treatment facility for further treatment, or to the nearest equine referral hospital

It is our standard practice to erect screens around any horse or jockey requiring attention on the course as this provides privacy and a safe, calm environment in which to accurately diagnose and treat the patient as necessary Please do not assume the worst if screens are erected around a horse. We are fully committed to minimizing risk in our sport, to dealing professionally and efficiently with any injury, and to maintaining the highest possible quality of care for the horses and jockeys racing here today. To find out more about our Equine Welfare policy, please visit our website www.fontwellpark.co.uk

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SEVENTH RACE 8.10

TWO MILES ABOUT ONE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 1F 162YDS) FOR FOUR AND FIVE YRS OLD

THE WATCH LIVE RACING AT STARSPORTS.BET OPEN

NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE)

Total prize fund £4800 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £1939, 2nd £969, 3rd £485, 4th £242, 5th £121. (Penalty Value £2534.88)

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): A Honeyball (37 wins from 109 runners, 34%) runs GETAWAYS GIFT TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): N Mulholland (4 wins from 18 runners, 22%) runs ELYSIAN KNIGHT & RUSSELLS WISH LONGEST TRAVELLER: KLIC BOUM trained by E Williams, Llancarfan, 159 miles.

JUBILANT opened his Rules account in ready fashion at Huntingdon 3 weeks ago and, with more to come, he should have enough to defy a penalty. Getaways Gift is a danger on the back of a good second at Plumpton and Korus can’t be ruled out.

1

(FR) (21) 231- 5 11-9

B g Doctor Dino (FR) - A Merveille (FR) Caoilin Quinn (3)

Mr & Mrs R Sage James Owen, Newmarket

Br Mr Francois-Marie Cottin

TIMEFORM VIEW £40,000 Irish point recruit who built on a promising Rules debut to open his account at Huntingdon 3 weeks ago. Had plenty to spare, so worth a chance to defy the penalty TFRHHHHH BHA-

2 ELYSIAN

KNIGHT (GB)

(-)

B g Champs Elysees - Hobb’s Dream (IRE)

5 11-2

Sam Twiston-Davies

Jane Nuala Cartwright Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke

Br Neil Mulholland Racing Ltd Tote

TIMEFORM VIEW Champs Elysees gelding. Half-brother to modest hurdler Hobb’s Delight Dam (c96/ h97) 3m-27f hurdle/chase winner. Bred to need further. TFRHHHII BHA-

3 ESCAPOLOGIST

(FR) (-)

B g It’s Gino (GER) - Comohio (FR)

5 11-2

Charlie Hammond

Mrs S. Ponting Joe Ponting, Wotton-Under-Edge

Br Mr Earl De Faydeau

TIMEFORM VIEW It’s Gino gelding Half-brother to Swiss 1 1/4m winner Sirene du Jour Dam, French 1 1/4m/11f winner, half-sister to fairly useful French hurdler (17f-19f winner) Vatohio. Yard not renowned for bumpers winners. TFRHHIII BHA-

4

GROOVY BLUE

(GB) (189) 0-

B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Miss Izzy (IRE)

Dan Donoghue & Hilary Pridham

5 11-2

Ben Jones

Ben Pauling, Naunton

Br Mr Richard Egan Fitzdares

TIMEFORM VIEWFrom a good family but showed little other than greenness when down the field on debut at Newbury 6 months ago. Has left Emma Lavelle and joined a yard with a good bumper record, so interesting to see what the market makes of him. TFRHHHII BHA-

5 MR MONOPOLY (IRE) (187) 0-

B g Mount Nelson - Simiya (IRE)

5 11-2

Lorcan Murtagh

Mrs C. Fry Harry Fry, Corscombe

Br James Hennelly Grosvenor Sport

TIMEFORMVIEWMount Nelson gelding Dam unraced half-sister to useful hurdler/fairly useful chaser (stayed 3m) Simarian Eleventh of 17 in bumper at Wincanton 6 months ago and others are more persuasive. TFRHHIII BHA-

6 THE

HAPPY CHAPATI (IRE) (22)

00-

B g Champs Elysees - Thuringe (FR)

Mr C. N. Barnes

5 11-2

James Bowen

Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

Br Ronald Brown Unibet

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to 3 winners, including smart bumper winner/top-class hurdler The New One. Most underwhelming so far, down the field again at Ludlow in April, so others are more appealing. TFRHHIII BHA-

7 KEVANO BREEZE (GB) (-) 4 10-10

B g Coulsty (IRE) - Shantou Breeze (IRE)

Mr M. Madgwick

Br M. J. Madgwick

Marc Goldstein

Michael Madgwick, Denmead

TIMEFORM VIEW Coulsty gelding. Dam (c94/h95), 2 1/2m chase winner, half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/chaser (2m winner) Turtle Time Lucky Likely to need time. TFRHHIII BHA-

1-2-3: 1.JUBILANT (FR)

KEY Owner Breeding Breeder Br Jockey Trainer Sponsor

8

KLIC BOUM (FR) (-)

B g Buck’s Boum (FR) - Ula de Mai (FR)

4 10-10

Isabel Williams (3)

Mr R. E. R. Williams Evan Williams, Llancarfan

Br Jerome Delaunay & Jean-Yves Touzaint

TIMEFORM VIEW €14,000 3-y-o, Buck’s Boum gelding Half-brother to fair 2m hurdle winner/fairly useful 23f chase winner Gentleman de Mai and 17f chase winner in France Harmonie de Mai. Makes some appeal on paper. TFRHHHII BHA-

9 KORUS (FR) (36) 3-

4 10-10

B g Cokoriko (FR) - Chic Et Zen (FR) Harry Cobden

Glassex Holdings Ltd Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn

Br Mrs Bernadette Quesny 1Account Ltd

TIMEFORMVIEWHalf-brother to 4 winners, including useful hurdler/chaser Torn And Frayed, stays 3m Promising start when third at Market Rasen last month and expected to step forward from it, so not dismissed TFRHHHII BHA-

10 RUSSELLS WISH (GB) (-)

4 10-10

B g Dartmouth - Mimi Equal Brendan Powell

Mr D. V. Stevens Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke

Br Shade Oak Stud

TIMEFORM VIEW4,000 gns 3-y-o, Dartmouth gelding Half-brother to fairly useful chaser Road Warrior and fairly useful 21f hurdle winner Theformismighty. Cheap purchase in relation to his pedigree and he will probably benefit from this experience TFRHHHII BHA-

11 SILVER HILL FLYER (IRE) (32) P-

B m Court Cave (IRE) - Jennifer Eccles

5 10-9

Micheal Nolan

Kate Allisat & Chris Ames Suzy Smith, Littlehampton

Br Kate Allisat & Exors Late Hilary Ames Tote

TIMEFORM VIEW Pulled up around halfway at Plumpton on debut and almost impossible to fancy. TFRHIIII BHA-

12 GETAWAYS GIFT (IRE) (32) 52-

B f Getaway (GER) - Northwood Milan (IRE)

4 10-3

Rex Dingle

Mr M. A. Bickell Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster

Br J. R. Weston Geegeez.co.uk

TIMEFORM VIEW Getaway filly who left debut form behind when second under a positive ride at Plumpton last time Should go well again, particularly if allowed another soft lead TFRHHHHI BHA-

2023:NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR

DECLARED RUNNERS 12

Stewards Note: SILVER HILL FLYER: Following its run on 14/4/2024 it was reported that the horse ran green.

Probable S.P’s: 3-1 Jubilant (FR), Getaways Gift (IRE), 17-2 Korus (FR), 12-1 Elysian Knight (GB), 14-1 Russells Wish (GB), 16-1 The Happy Chapati (IRE), 18-1 Klic Boum (FR), 20-1 Groovy Blue (GB), 22-1 Mr Monopoly (IRE), 28-1 Escapologist (FR), 40-1 Kevano Breeze (GB), 150-1 Silver Hill Flyer (IRE)

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RACE CONDITIONS

First Race 5.10 - THE STAR SPORTS WE BELIEVE IN BOOKMAKING MARES’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4574 to the winning horse The second to receive £2107, the third £1053 and the fourth £527. for novice four yrs old and upwards fillies and mares only, which have not won more than one hurdle race. Enter by noon, May 10th and pay £38 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 8lb; 5-y-o and up 11st Penalties, a winner of a hurdle race 7lb. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 24 entries at £38. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3505; Second £1753; Third £876; Fourth £438. (Penalty Value £4574.64)

SEE PAGE 14 FOR THIS RACE.

Second Race 5.40 - THE STAR SPORTS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4647 to the winning horse The second to receive £2138, the third £1069, the fourth £535 and the fifth £266. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-120 (also open to such horses rated 121 and 122 - see Standard Conditions). £38 stake if the horse is rated 94 or higher, or £7 stake if the horse is rated 93 or lower with £31 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Penalties, after May 4th, 2024, for each hurdle race won 7lb. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 7 entries at £38. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money Winner £3554; Second £1777; Third £889; Fourth £444; Fifth £222. (Penalty Value £4647.28)

SEE PAGE 19 FOR THIS RACE.

Third Race 6.10 - THE DOWNLOAD THE STAR SPORTS APP NOVICES’ HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4013 to the winning horse The second to receive £1846, the third £923, the fourth £462 and the fifth £230. for novice five yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-100. Enter by noon, May 10th and pay £30 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Penalties, after May 4th, 2024, for each steeple chase won 7lb. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 14 entries at £30. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3070; Second £1534; Third £768; Fourth £384; Fifth £192. (Penalty Value £4013.56)

SEE PAGE 22 FOR THIS RACE.

Fourth Race 6.40 - THE STARSPORTS.BET HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4013 to the winning horse The second to receive £1846, the third £923, the fourth £462 and the fifth £230. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-100. Enter by noon, May 10th and pay £30 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Penalties, after May 4th, 2024, for each hurdle race won 7lb. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 22 entries at £30. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money Winner £3070; Second £1534; Third £768; Fourth £384; Fifth £192. (Penalty Value £4013.56)

SEE PAGE 32 FOR THIS RACE.

Fifth Race 7.10 - THE STAR SPORTS BEST ODDS GUARANTEED HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4647 to the winning horse The second to receive £2138, the third £1069, the fourth £535 and the fifth £266. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-120 (also open to such horses rated 121 and 122 - see Standard Conditions). £38 stake if the horse is rated 94 or higher, or £7 stake if the horse is rated 93 or lower with £31 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Penalties, after May 4th, 2024, for each hurdle race won 7lb. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 13 entries at £38. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3554; Second £1777; Third £889; Fourth £444; Fifth £222. (Penalty Value £4647.28) Weights raised 4lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 38 FOR THIS RACE.

Sixth Race 7.40 - THE starsportsbet.co.uk HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4013 to the winning horse The second to receive £1846, the third £923, the fourth £462 and the fifth £230. for five yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-100. Enter by noon, May 10th and pay £30 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Penalties, after May 4th, 2024, for each steeple chase won 7lb. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 14 entries at £30. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3070; Second £1534; Third £768; Fourth £384; Fifth £192. (Penalty Value £4013.56)

SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS RACE.

Seventh Race 8.10 - THE WATCH LIVE RACING AT STARSPORTS.BET OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £2534 to the winning horse The second to receive £1166, the third £583, the fourth £291 and the fifth £145. for four and five yrs old only, which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing, except National Hunt Flat races, Irish National Hunt Flat races or French AQPS Flat races. Enter by noon, May 10th and pay £22 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 14th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 10lb; 5-y-o 11st 2lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a race 7lb Of 2 races 10lb. The Riders’ Allowances under paragraph 53 of the Weights and Handicapping Code may be claimed in this race. Star Sports will give a prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. 23 entries at £22. - Closed May 10th, 2024. Owners Prize Money Winner £1939; Second £969; Third £485; Fourth £242; Fifth £121. (Penalty Value £2534.88)

SEE PAGE 46 FOR THIS RACE.

On Fontwell Park’s Centenary year, our thanks must go out to the racecourse’s founder, racehorse trainer Alfred Day.

Without Day’s vision of transforming his training yard into a unique figure-of-eight racecourse, we would not be celebrating a rich one-hundred-year history of racing at Fontwell.

The past century has seen the calendar increase from a four fixtures to twenty two, and has been witness to some of racing’s greats including the Champion Hurdlers National Spirit and Comedy Of Errors, as well as the late Queen and the late Queen Mother’s first runner and winner in 1949, Monaveen, with the late Queen in attendance to enjoy the occasion.

Day’s handywork can still be admired today, including the wonderful landscaped gardens, topiary stone ornaments, the domed summerhouse, the trees lining Fontwell Avenue and of course, the only figure-of-eight Jumps track in the UK.

FIXTURE LIST 2024

K E Y Bold text Feature Day Live Entertainment (A) = Afternoon Racing (E) = Evening Racing

JANUARY Thurs 11 Afternoon Racing Sun 28 Afternoon Racing

FEBRUARY Wed 14 Afternoon Racing Sun 25 (A) National Spirit Hurdle

MARCH

Wed 6 Afternoon Racing Mon 18

28

APRIL Fri 5

19 Afternoon Racing

MAY

Wed 8 Evening Racing

Thurs 16 (E) Centenary Raceday Sun 26 (A) Family Fun Day

JUNE Wed 12 Afternoon Racing

AUGUST Fri 30 Evening Racing

SEPTEMBER

Sun 8 (A) Family Fun Day Tues 24 Afternoon Racing

OCTOBER Fri 4 Afternoon Racing Wed 23 Afternoon Racing

NOVEMBER Fri 8 Afternoon Racing Sun 17 (A) BetGoodwin Southern National

DECEMBER

Tues 10 (A) Christmas Jumper Day Thurs 26 (A) Boxing Day Racing