Ascot 19th December 2020 racecard

D E C E M B E R R AC I N G WEEKEND Saturday 19th December 2020

THE WAIT ONLY ADDS TO THE DRAMA

15 – 19 JUNE 2021

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT ASCOT.CO.UK FINE DINING PACKAGES FROM £384+VAT.

CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME Welcome to the final day’s racing at Ascot in 2020.

Sadly, we are unable to stage this fixture as a pre-Christmas celebration and we will miss our traditional carol singing post racing.

Our thanks go to Betfair, sponsors of the £100,000 Betfair Exchange Trophy, a hugely competitive two-mile handicap hurdle which is always a competitive betting heat. Buzz has been the long-time ante post favourite for the most successful trainer in the race, Nicky Henderson, after an impressive victory over course and distance in November, while last year’s winner Not So Sleepy bids to become the first ever dual winner of the race.

Top quality will be on display in the £80,000 Grade 1 Porsche Long Walk Hurdle as the first and second from the recent Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury reoppose in the shape of Thyme Hill and Paisley Park.

They are two of the very best horses in the staying hurdle division and, as the only Grade 1 staying-hurdle race in Britain before the Festival, this is a key early season event.

The roll of honour includes Big Buck’s, Baracouda, My Way De Solzen and Reve De Sivola, while the remarkable 12-year-old Thistlecrack landed the race in 2015 and is back again today to try and join the list of multiple winners.

Porsche is the Official Car of Ascot, providing vehicles for officials, vets, doctors and VIP guests on racedays, and we are most grateful for their support today and through the year.

Also, thanks must go to Foundation Developments, sponsors of our opening race today, who have been with us for 15 years.

This afternoon, we recognise the excellent work of the Injured Jockeys Fund through the Injured Jockeys Fund Graduation Chase. They are represented here today selling Christmas cards and gifts from their stall situated next to the Parade Ring. We are proud to work with them on several initiatives and there are more details on page 19.

Our first ITV race today is the “For The Love Of Racing” Handicap Steeple Chase. The “For The Love Of” campaign was launched across sport last week, and aims to reinforce the positive part sport plays in our lives, never more so in these challenging times. Racing is delighted to be involved in such an important campaign.

Our penultimate race is named in support of Hollie Doyle, who was one of the real stories of not just the racing year but the year in sport. Following her debut Royal Ascot winner with a first Group 1 and a double on QIPCO British Champions Day, amongst many other achievements, Hollie is a finalist in tomorrow night’s BBC Sports Personality Of The Year. I am sure you will join me in wishing her all the very best of luck.

Like so many industries and sports, 2020 has been challenging for the sport of racing. We have missed our racegoers hugely and look forward to welcoming many more people back to Ascot in 2021.

On behalf of everyone at Ascot, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sir Francis Brooke Bt. Her Majesty’s Representative & Chairman WELCOME 3

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WELCOME

HOW TO READ THE RACING PAGES

A S H O RT H I S TO RY

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TO DAY ’ S SPONSORS

TODAY’S OFFICIALS

R AC E CONDITIONS

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R AC I N G PAG E S Your guide to all of today’s races

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PAGES 34-36

1st Race 12.40pm The Foundation Developments Novices’ Handicap Hurdle Race (GBB Race)

4th Race 2.25pm The Porsche Long Walk Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race)

PAGES 20-21

PAGES 40-42

2nd Race 1.15pm The Injured Jockeys Fund Graduation Steeple Chase (GBB Race)

5th Race 3.00pm The Good Luck Hollie In SPOTY Silver Cup Handicap Chase (Listed Race) (GBB Race)

This handicap hurdle for novice four-year-olds and upwards which have been rated from 0 to 120 is run over two miles and about seven and a half furlongs.

Novice races tend to be for younger horses that are still learning their way over hurdles or fences, allowing them to compete against each other before graduating up the ranks. Horses are classed as a novice if they have yet to win a race under the respective code prior to the official start of the season, which is towards the end of April.

A graduation steeple chase is simply a race for horses that have yet to win more than twice over fences. This particular contest for horses aged four and upwards is to be run over two miles and about five furlongs. Initially the weights are set according to age and sex, before penalties, ranging from 4lb to 7lb depending on the class of race won, are then awarded to previous winners.

PAGES 26-28

3rd Race 1.50pm The “For The Love of Racing” Handicap Steeple Chase

This handicap steeple chase for four-year-olds and upwards which have been rated from 0 to 150 is run over two miles and about three furlongs.

In a handicap, the weight that each of the runners carries is determined by their official handicap rating, which is based on their level of form shown so far. The aim is to ensure competitive racing by asking the higher-rated horses to carry more weight than a lower-rated rival. As a guide, horses rated 60 tend to be at the lower end of the scale, whilst the very best performers would be rated as high as 170.

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CONTENTS

The feature race this afternoon is a Grade 1 hurdle for four-year-olds and upwards to be run over three miles and about half a furlong. Grade 1 races are the equivalent of the Premier League in football quite simply there is no higher level, so these types of races usually attract the crème de la crème from Britain and Ireland and occasionally France. There are no penalties in a Grade 1 race with each runner carrying 11st 7lb, although fillies and mares do receive a 7lb allowance.

This is a three mile Listed handicap steeple chase for four-year-olds and upwards. The majority of handicaps are designed for horses from within a specific ratings band, but this particular race has no rating restrictions attached to it which allows horses with a higher rating to take part. Even so, the higher-rated horses must still concede weight to their lower-rated rivals, which tends to make open handicaps very competitive races.

PAGES 46-49

6th Race 3.35pm The Betfair Exchange Trophy (A Handicap Hurdle) Grade 3) (GBB Race) This Grade 3 handicap hurdle for four-year-olds and upwards is run over two miles. To qualify for a handicap rating, horses must have won a race, been placed twice or raced at least three times in order for the Handicapper to gauge the level of form shown. This rating then dictates the weight to be carried in a handicap. In simple terms, a horse rated 150 in this particular race would be required to carry 5lb more than a rival rated 145.

HOW TO READ THE RACING PAGES 1

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1 ALTIOR (IRE) (23)

Nico de Boinville

B g High Chaparral (IRE) - Monte Solaro (IRE) (Key of Luck (USA)) Owner: Mrs Patricia Pugh Weight: 11 7 Horse Age: 9 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: BLACK, DARK GREEN and Breeder: Paddy Behan GREY striped sleeves.

Sponsor: Unibet Form: 1/111-11 CD

BET WITH ASCOT VIEW HHHHH Star attraction who is unbeaten in 16 attempts over obstacles, including last season’s Champion Chase; typically strong at the finish in the Tingle Creek on reappearance and followed up in Kempton Grade 2 Official BHA Rating 175 over Christmas; beat Diego Du Charmil by 19l in latter and ought to extend his winning run.

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1. Owner’s Silks (illustration) 2. Colour of horse B = Bay Br = Brown Ch = Chestnut Gr = Grey Ro = Roan 3. Horse’s Number on saddle cloth 4. Sex of horse c = colt f = filly g = gelding h = horse m = mare 5. Horse’s name 6. Sire (Father) 7. Dam (Mother) 8. Birthplace of horse (if not Great Britain) 9. Number of days since last ran 10. Damsire (Grandfather) 11. Form Guide 12. Racing Post star rating 13. Horse’s sponsor details 14. Breeder 15. Owner(s) 16. Trainer and location of training establishment 17. Age of horse 18. Owner’s Colours (description) 19. Previous performances / = Denotes new season – = Denotes new year B = Brought down F = Fell P = Pulled Up U = Unseated rider 20. Form details C = Course winner D = Distance winner CD = Has won a race over the same distance at Ascot before.

C D = Has at won a race at Ascot before but over a different distance. They have also won over today’s trip at another course.

BF = Finished beaten favourite on their previous run.

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21. Weight (stones/pounds) 22. Official BHA Rating 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 penalties and 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-handicapped races the rating shown is that of each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed. Any subsequently published change in rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating.

For novice steeple chasers, their latest hurdle race rating may be shown until such time as the Handicappers allot a separate steeple chase rating. Such ratings are prefixed by the letter h.

23. Jockey’s name and photo If there is a number next to the name, this indicates that the jockey can claim that amount in weight (lbs) off the stated riding weight.

H O W T O R E A D T H E R A C I N G PA G E S 5

A SHORT HISTORY ASCOT’S BEGINNINGS Few sporting venues can match the rich heritage and history of Ascot Racecourse.

Over the past 300 years, Ascot has established itself as a national institution; with Royal Ascot becoming the centrepiece of the British social calendar and the ultimate stage for the best racehorses in the world.

THE FIRST RACECOURSE The racecourse was laid out by William Lowen, assisted by a team including a carpenter, a painter, and a racing administrator. The first permanent building was erected around 1794 by a local Windsor builder. Holding 1,650 people, it was used for almost fifty years.

It was Queen Anne in 1711 who first saw the potential for a racecourse at Ascot (in those days called East Cote). Whilst out riding near Windsor Castle she came upon an area of open heath that looked, in her words, “ideal for horses to gallop at full stretch”.

In 1813, Parliament passed an Act of Enclosure, which ensured that Ascot Heath would be kept and used as a racecourse for the public in the future. Racing at Ascot was now secure.

THE FIRST RACE MEETING The first race meeting ever held at Ascot took place later that year, on Saturday 11th August. The inaugural event was Her Majesty’s Plate, worth 100 guineas and open to any horse, mare or gelding over six years of age. Each horse was required to carry a weight of 12 stone and the seven runners were all English hunters, rather different to the speedy thoroughbreds that race on the Flat today.

The nature of the contest also bears little resemblance to modern day racing at Ascot.

That race consisted of three separate heats, each four miles long – about the length of today’s Grand National course. The winning horse would have required tremendous stamina, but sadly there is no record of who claimed that first Plate.

Queen Anne’s gift to racing, founding the Royal Racecourse, is marked by the tradition of opening Royal Ascot with The Queen Anne Stakes.

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A S H O RT H I STO RY

ROYAL ASCOT The precise origins of the Royal Meeting are unclear, as the event evolved from the first four-day meeting that took place in 1768.

The meeting as it’s known today only really started to take shape with the introduction of The Gold Cup in 1807. Royal Ascot was the only race meeting held at Ascot until 1939.

The Gold Cup remains the feature race of the third day of Royal Ascot, traditionally the busiest day of the week, when high fashion and exquisite millinery take centre stage alongside Flat racing’s most elite stayers.

In 2009, Yeats, ridden by Johnny Murtagh and trained by Aidan O’Brien, won his fourth consecutive Gold Cup – a magnificent achievement, and one that Stradivarius could emulate next year.

MANAGING ASCOT Although founded by a Queen and located on Crown property, the administration of Ascot is handled on behalf of the Crown by a representative appointed by the Monarch. Up until 1901, the racecourse was managed on the Sovereign’s behalf by the Master of the Royal Buckhounds. In 1901, Lord Churchill was appointed as His Majesty’s Representative, responsible for running the course and determining entrance to the Royal Enclosure.

The Ascot Authority was established in 1913 by an Act of Parliament, with His Majesty’s Representative becoming Senior Trustee.

Today, as Ascot Authority (Holdings) Limited, Ascot has a formal board chaired by Sir Francis Brooke Bt., who also serves as Her Majesty’s Representative at Ascot.

As an owner and breeder of racehorses, Her Majesty The Queen takes a keen interest in the races, and has had great success with her own horses over the years. The jockeys riding Her Majesty’s horses can be identified by The Queen’s racing colours: purple body with gold braid, scarlet sleeves, and black velvet cap with gold fringe – the same as those of King Edward VII and George IV as Prince Regent.

During Royal Ascot, The Queen traditionally presents The Gold Cup and The Diamond Jubilee Stakes. New versions of these trophies are made each year and presented to the winners to keep.

Ascot Racecourse closed for a £200 million redevelopment in 2004, and was reopened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth on 20th June 2006.

HIGHLIGHTS AT ASCOT SINCE 2006 There have been several landmark occasions since Ascot Racecourse reopened in 2006 and none more memorable than two special Gold Cup days – when Yeats completed his four-timer of Gold Cup wins in 2009 and when The Queen herself won the stayers’ championship with Estimate in 2013.

In 2011, Ascot celebrated its tercentenary and staged the inaugural QIPCO British Champions Day, now the culmination of the European elite Flat racing season.

The great Frankel won The Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on Champions Day in 2011, and the curtain came down on the career of officially the best horse of all time when he won The Champion Stakes a year later. Sir Henry Cecil’s pride and joy won five of his remarkable unbeaten run of 14 races at Ascot in all.

2012 also saw Ascot at the heart of the country’s celebrations to mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, with The Golden Jubilee Stakes renamed The Diamond Jubilee Stakes and won by the great Australian mare, Black Caviar.

Ascot has continued to cement its reputation as Europe’s premier destination for the best horses in the world. In recent years it is the Americans who have had most success, with Tepin’s win in the 2016 Queen Anne Stakes and Lady Aurelia’s King’s Stand Stakes victory the following year being notable highlights.

The latter filly was trained by Wesley Ward, who has now saddled 11 winners at the Royal Meeting.

It is not just international horses which Ascot is known for, of course. Jockeys also come from all over the world to ride here – perhaps most notably at the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup, a unique fixture in the global racing calendar which each year sees many of world’s top jockeys compete for points to lift racing’s ultimate team prize, with four teams battling it out across a thrilling six-race contest.

While the grandeur of the Royal Meeting takes centre stage each June, Ascot is also renowned for hosting Europe’s premier midsummer middle-distance contest the following month.

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth QIPCO Stakes has been won by many of racing’s most distinguished champions including Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Dancing Brave, Nashwan, Galileo and - most recently - the remarkable mare Enable, who in July 2020 made history by becoming the first horse to win three renewals of this prestigious prize.

A S H O RT H I STO RY 7

TODAY’S SPONSORS Ascot would like to take this opportunity to thank today’s race sponsors for their generous support.

RACE 1

Foundation Developments Limited have been providing civil engineering, infrastructure, groundwork and reinforced concrete frame solutions since 1991. Our experienced management team knows the critical importance of speed and quality when executing civil engineering, infrastructure and RC frame contracts. Experience and expertise are the hallmarks of our business. Our directly employed skilled workforce is complemented by an extensive in house plant division. Lost time can mean lost money and to this end FDL has earned a reputation for completing a wide variety of projects on time and on budget. foundation-dev.com

RACE 2

The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) was founded in 1964 following the devastating accident to Tim Brookshaw and then Paddy Farrell in the 1964 Grand National. Both falls resulted in severe paralysis which immediately ended both their careers. Since then the Fund has helped over 1,000 jockeys and their families and has paid out more than £18m in charitable assistance. The charity provide appropriate support in a prompt and sympathetic manner to those jockeys past and present who are injured, unable to ride or generally in need. injuredjockeys.co.uk

RACE 4

We are delighted to announce Porsche, Official Car of Ascot, as sponsor of the Porsche Long Walk Hurdle today. Powered by efficient, high-performance petrol, hybrid or all-electric technology, Porsche balances tradition with a pioneering spirit in its range of innovative, sustainable and emotive sports cars. porsche.com/uk

RACE 6

Betfair is proud to sponsor the Betfair Exchange Trophy this Festive period at Ascot. Check out the Betfair Exchange which had Best Odds on 96% of all horses that ran in 2020. Plus on the Betfair Sportsbook with My Oddsboost – boost your odds on horse racing every day. If you want more take advantage of Each Way Edge which allows you to add or remove extra places to your bet and Bet In-Play which lets you bet in the midst of the action. Enjoy the racing! Betfair.com

1 0 A SCOT S P O N SO R S

EXQUISITE

15 – 19 JUNE 2021

ROYAL ASCOT PRESENTS A RANGE OF BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANTS AND STUNNING FINE DINING EXPERIENCES. TICKET-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES FROM £384+VAT. MICHELIN-STARRED MENUS FROM £633+VAT. REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT ASCOT.CO.UK

R AC E 1 12 .40PM T H E F O U N DAT I O N D E V E L O P M E N T S N OV I C E S ’ H A N D I C A P H U R D L E R AC E ( C L A S S 4 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE START

RACE FINISH

Two miles about seven and a half furlongs (2m 7f 118yds) (4,700 metres) For novice four yrs old and upwards Total race value £10000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4260; Second £1411; Third £706; Fourth £353; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280; Eighth £280. (Penalty Value £5588.28) See page 52 for conditions of this race.

Foundation Developments will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1 TIDE TIMES (IRE) (29)

Gr g Vinnie Roe (IRE) - Lady Wagtail (IRE) (Milan) Owner: The DTTW Partnership Horse Age: 6 Weight: 12 0 Trainer: Ian Williams, Alvechurch Colours: ORANGE, PURPLE stars, PURPLE Breeder: Grange Stud sleeves, ORANGE armlets and star on PURPLE cap.

Sponsor: Tote Form: 10/2-531 CD

Jockey Charlie Todd (5)

HHHH Improvement on last two starts, on latest inching ahead close home under Charlie Todd with a game performance in ten-runner novice handicap over C&D (soft; Silver Nickel in third); up 7lb but he’s heading the right way and has proved himself in a slog here.

Official BHA Rating 122

2 HUNTSMANS JOG (IRE) (15) B g Milan - Faucon (Polar Falcon (USA)) Owner: The Box 8 Partnership Trainer: Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham Breeder: Mr Don Cantillon Sponsor: Dunraven Group of Companies

Liam Harrison (7)

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 12 0 Colours: DARK GREEN, RED chevrons, WHITE sleeves and cap.

Form: 3U11-21 D

HHHH 2-3 in points early this year; has returned to hurdling in good form over 2m7f on soft, last time narrowly holding the advantage from three out in a five-runner novice handicap at Exeter; up 6lb (7lb claimer Liam Harrison is enlisted) but may well have more to offer.

Official BHA Rating 122

3 P O P PA P O U T I N E ( I R E ) ( 1 8 )

B g Sholokhov (IRE) - Sherchanceit (IRE) (Norwich) Owner: Options O Syndicate Horse Age: 4 Weight: 12 0 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: RED, WHITE disc, Breeder: Mrs Mary O’Connor diabolo on sleeves.

Sponsor: Options Energy Services Ltd Form: 2-341 D

Tom Bellamy

HHHHH Switched to front-running and showed improved form when winning a 12-runner race at Southwell (3m, good to soft) on recent handicap debut, making all and getting the better of a sustained duel; up 6lb but more of a slog on this more galloping Official BHA Rating 122 track is probably just the ticket.

4 MORNING SPIRIT (IRE) (26)

B g Milan - Morning Legend (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Mr P. Hickey Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 10 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: MAROON, WHITE hoop, Breeder: Mr Michael Dillon diabolo on sleeves and diamond on cap.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 520-433 BF

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHH 0-8 but last two races were his best form and he looked an out-and-out stayer when upped markedly to 3m1f at Kempton (good); previous Bangor third was on heavy and this return to testing ground may well suit him. Official BHA Rating 118

5 H U G OS OT H E R H O R S E (G B ) ( 1 6 ) B g Gold Well - Wicked Crack (IRE) (King’s Ride) Owner: The Stewart Family Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: R. T. Crellin Sponsor: Morson Group

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 9 Colours: BLACK and WHITE (halved), RED sleeves and cap.

Form: 664-022

HHH Second in handicaps at Taunton (3m, good) and Wincanton (2m5f, soft) last two starts; the latter was in first-time headgear Official BHA Rating 117 (retained) which received a positive response and this step back up in trip looks a plus.

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Harry Cobden

1 6 BLAME THE GAME (IRE) (47) B g Darsi (FR) - Lucy Walters (IRE) (King’s Ride) Owner: Redz Together Trainer: Chris Gordon, Winchester Breeder: Paddy Kinsella Sponsor: Owley Ltd

Tom Cannon

Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 7 Colours: RED, WHITE stripe, WHITE and RED check sleeves, striped cap.

Form: 4-31

HHH Made most and kept pulling out more when winning seven-runner novice at Plumpton (2m4f, soft) by a neck, pair clear; that was just his second start over hurdles (after one point) and he surely brings potential to this handicap debut, with the longer trip also of interest.

Official BHA Rating 115

7 ECHO DU LARGE (FR) (39)

B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Gardagua (FR) (Kapgarde (FR)) Owner: Castle Farm Racing Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 3 Trainer: Robert Stephens, Caldicot Colours: DARK BLUE and WHITE stripes, Breeder: Mr Pascal Noue checked sleeves.

Form: 40633-2

Tom O’Brien

HHH 20-1 and first run since January when good second of 12 on handicap debut at Hereford (2m5f, good to soft; 2lb higher today) last month, plugging on well to reduce the deficit so today’s further step up in trip may well be of benefit. Official BHA Rating 111

8 FAW S L E Y S P I R I T ( I R E ) ( 2 2 )

B g Stowaway - Apple Trix (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Mrs Rachel Brodie & Mr Clive Bush Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 13 Trainer: Ben Pauling, Bourton-on-the-Water Colours: DARK BLUE, YELLOW disc, Breeder: Denis Cummins sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Jeremy Houghton - Houghtonart Form: 3/6602-2

Luca Morgan (7)

HHHH Remains a maiden but straight back to his best when second of 16 under Luca Morgan in handicap at Doncaster (3m, good) on return three weeks ago, in a clear lead for most of the straight; the front two finished 17l clear and going back up 5lb seems to Official BHA Rating 107 underestimate his performance.

9 S I LV E R N I C K E L ( I R E ) ( 2 9 )

Gr g Gold Well - Cooper’s Rose (IRE) (Roselier (FR)) Owner: Mrs Deborah Potter Horse Age: 6 Weight: 10 13 Trainer: Seamus Mullins, Amesbury Colours: WHITE, MAUVE stripe, Breeder: Patrick Doyle striped cap.

Sponsor: We Do Vans Form: 3/003-43

Daniel Sansom (3)

HHH Eight-race maiden but he’s been improving this season, last time always front rank when third of ten to Tide Times in C&D handicap (soft); up 1lb and probably not far away.

Official BHA Rating 107

1 0 R E A L LY R A D I C A L ( I R E ) ( 3 3 )

B g Insatiable (IRE) - Glenogra Cailin (IRE) (Alderbrook) Owner: Mrs B. Chantler Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 13 Trainer: Chris Gordon, Winchester Colours: WHITE, MAROON Cross of Lorraine, Breeder: Jane Gayfer & Pat Dempsey MAROON sleeves, WHITE stars, MAROON cap, WHITE star.

Sponsor: Owley Ltd Form: 320P-P2

Jamie Moore

HH Runner-up last term off significantly higher marks as chaser, including at 3m1f on heavy; back to some form when second at Plumpton (2m4f, heavy) last month on return to hurdling with switch to this headgear; needs to build on that and 0-16 record (five of those in points) is a nagging concern.

Official BHA Rating 107

1 1 S OYO U T H I N K S OAG A I N ( I R E ) ( 5 1 )

B g So You Think (NZ) - Al Saqiya (USA) (Woodman (USA)) Owner: Mr Ian Lawrence Horse Age: 5 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: PINK, BROWN epaulets, Breeder: Matt Gleeson Sponsor: Ladbrokes, sleeves and cap.

The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 5000-21

Harry Skelton

HHHH Much better with cheekpieces enlisted for last two starts; travelled well and found plenty, the first two moving 17l clear, when second of 19 at Carlisle (2m4f, soft) on first occasion and he duly made most of an unchanged mark at Stratford (2m2f) one week later; now up 11lb over a new trip, which he’s not bred to stay, but could still be capable of better. Official BHA Rating 106

1 2 F R E D DY FA N ATA PA N ( G B ) ( 2 7 )

B g Nathaniel (IRE) - Pan Galactic (USA) (Lear Fan (USA)) Owner: Dr G. S. Plastow Horse Age: 5 Weight: 10 10 Trainer: Stuart Kittow, Cullompton Colours: ORANGE, BLACK seams, WHITE Breeder: D. R. Tucker and BLACK check sleeves, ORANGE cap.

Sponsor: Science2market Form: 156041

Richard Johnson

HHH Won handicap debut in first-time headgear in July; failed to build on that until latest start when he scored at Exeter (2m5f, soft; no headgear) by 13l, making most and drawing clear in a style that gives hope for this trip even though he weakened when trying it once before at Uttoxeter in August; 9lb rise demands more from him.

Official BHA Rating 104

R A C I N G PA G E S 1 3

1 1 3 H AT C H E T J A C K ( I R E ) ( 9 )

B g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Identity Parade (IRE) (Witness Box (USA)) Owner: A J Pearson, Mark Jenner, Ed Hawkings Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: Paul Henderson, Whitsbury Colours: BLACK, PINK stars and sleeves, Breeder: Mrs M. Doran PINK and BLACK quartered cap.

Sponsor: Paul Henderson Racing Form: 33/2/-505

Joshua Moore

H Well handicapped judged on lots of efforts in 2017-18, including over C&D on soft, but he was then off the track for 905 days and has struggled since; overall record now stands at 0-15, four of those in points.

Official BHA Rating 103

Visor worn by No. 10. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 5.

2019: FLOWING CADENZA 5 10 7 Sean Houlihan 4-1 (Bob Buckler) 9 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT D I S TA N C E

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RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST: 11-2 Soyouthinksoagain (IRE), 6-1 Huntsmans Jog (IRE), 7-1 Tide Times (IRE), 8-1 Poppa Poutine (IRE), Hugos Other Horse (GB), Fawsley Spirit (IRE), 9-1 Echo du Large (FR), 10-1 Morning Spirit (IRE), Blame The Game (IRE), Silver Nickel (IRE), 11-1 Freddy Fanatapan (GB), 16-1 Reallyradical (IRE), 33-1 Hatchet Jack (IRE)

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

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OFFICIAL PARTNERS AND SUPPLIERS Ascot is proud to present our Official Partners and Suppliers for 2020

PARTNERS

SUPPLIERS AND SPONSORS

OFFICIAL SPIRITS

OFFICIAL BOOKMAKER

OFFICIAL SPONSOR

OFFICIAL MIXER

OFFICIAL TROPHIES AND SILVERWARE

OFFICIAL WINE SUPPLIER

OFFICIAL WATER

OFFICIAL COFFEE

OFFICIAL CHAMPAGNE

OFFICIAL CAR

OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY

OFFICIAL BEER

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Record collection

INJURED JOCKEYS FUND ASCOT AMBASSADORS PROGRAMME

Today we would like to recognise the work of the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) whose mission is to provide appropriate support in a prompt and sympathetic manner to those jockeys past and present who are injured, unable to ride or generally in need.

Since 1964, the Fund has helped over 1,000 jockeys and their families and has paid out more than £18m in charitable assistance.

Typically, our IJF Ambassador’s Programme would be in operation on a raceday, providing Fine Dining guests with a fun, educational talk and tour from an IJF jockey. The combination of a £1 donation per cover from the racecourse coupled with on-the-day donations from guests has been hugely successful and whilst the remaining 2020 programme was postponed, a total of £2,500 was still raised during our January and February racedays.

This total will be added to the £80,000 now raised via the programme since 2017 and we are very much looking forward to its recommencement in 2021.

In honour of the charity, our 1.15pm race has been named “The Injured Jockeys Fund Graduation Steeple Chase”.

You can learn more about the IJF Ambassadors Programme at Ascot Racecourse and how it helps the charity here. www.injuredjockeys.co.uk 19 INJURED JOCKEYS FUND

R AC E 2 1 .1 5 P M THE INJURED JOCKEYS FUND G R A D U AT I O N S T E E P L E C H A S E ( C L A S S 2 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about five furlongs (2m 5f 8yds) (4,200 metres) For four yrs old and upwards Total race value £30000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £14250; Second £4761; Third £2382; Fourth £1191. (Penalty Value £18768) A See page 52 for conditions of this race.

The Injured Jockeys Fund will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1 CA R I B E A N B OY ( F R ) ( 2 2 )

Gr g Myboycharlie (IRE) - Caribena (FR) (Linamix (FR)) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: EMERALD GREEN, DARK GREEN sleeves, Breeder: Mme S. Guittard & Mr G. E. Guittard DARK GREEN and EMERALD GREEN quartered cap.

Sponsor: Ptarmigan Media Limited Form: 602//31-1

Jockey Daryl Jacob

HHHHH French recruit who won Haydock handicap chase (2m4f, heavy) in February on second start for this top yard and belatedly followed up in three-runner Grade 2 novice at Newbury (2m4f, good) recently; solid claims. Official BHA Rating 154

2 DA S H E L D R A S H E R ( G B ) ( 2 8 )

B g Passing Glance - So Long (Nomadic Way (USA)) Owner: Mrs B Tully and Mr R Lock Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Jeremy Scott, Dulverton Colours: PURPLE, YELLOW star, Breeder: Mrs C. C. Scott RED sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Sponsor: Brendon Powerwashers Form: 11/2U1-3 C D

Matt Griffiths

HH Impressed when winning Haydock novice chase (2m5f, soft) last December and, having had a tendon injury and wind surgery, may have needed last month’s reappearance there (2m5f, soft); however, he needs to be better than ever to win this.

Official BHA Rating 143

3 I TC H Y F E E T ( F R ) ( 2 8)

B g Cima de Triomphe (IRE) - Maeva Candas (FR) (Brier Creek (USA)) Owner: Kate & Andrew Brooks Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Olly Murphy, Wilmcote Colours: LIGHT BLUE, RED braces, WHITE sleeves, Breeder: Jean-Pierre Cordonnier & Daniel Gromada RED armlets, LIGHT BLUE and RED quartered cap.

Sponsor: McCoy Contractors Form: 411U-32

Gavin Sheehan

HHHH Won Grade 1 novice chase at Sandown (2m4f, soft) in February before early unseat at the Cheltenham Festival; solid form in defeat on first two runs this season, including in Grade 2 over C&D (soft) last time when second to exciting prospect; leading form claims but has made mistakes the last twice, which is a concern, and there’s a suspicion he could do with a longer trip.

Official BHA Rating 155

4 COMMANCHE RED (IRE) (28) Ch g Mahler - Auntie Bob (Overbury (IRE)) Owner: Mr Richard & Mrs Carol Cheshire Trainer: Chris Gordon, Winchester Breeder: Mr J. Travers Sponsor: Owley Ltd

Tom Cannon

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 4 Colours: LIGHT BLUE, large ROYAL BLUE spots, ROYAL BLUE cap, LIGHT BLUE spots.

Form: 3313-P4

HH 9l winner of a novice handicap chase at Kempton (2m4f, soft) last Christmas, a race that worked out extremely well; might not be far away if reproducing that form but he’s been below his best on his two starts this season, including with these cheekpieces applied last time.

Official BHA Rating 145 Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 4.

2019: RIDERS ONTHE STORM (IRE) 6 11 7 Sam Twiston-Davies 9-4 (Nigel Twiston-Davies) 5 ran

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BETTING FORECAST: 5/4 Itchy Feet (FR), 11/8 Caribean Boy (FR), 7/1 Dashel Drasher (GB), 9/1 Commanche Red (IRE)

R A C I N G PA G E S 2 1

Outstanding First Northern Hemisphere Foals

Colt out of dual Gr.1 winner La Collina

Filly out of Gr.3 winner Lightening Quick

Colt out of Gr.3 winning 2YO sprinter La Rioja

Filly out of Sudu Queen

Colt out of Stakes placed 2YO sprinter White Bullet

Colt out of Dream Of Joy

“I’m excited about Zoustar but I’m even more excited about him now that I’ve seen his foals. We foaled 9 here and they are a cracking bunch. Scopey, muscled and with a good walk they should go down very well at the sales.”

The Hon. Peter Stanley, New England Stud

“We have 4 Zoustar foals on the farm.

They all have great presence, good movers and are good-looking foals. I think these Zoustar’s are what every breeder hopes for and when they see them they’re going to sell very well.”

David Cox, Baroda Stud

“Our Zoustar colt has inherited his sire’s imposing physicality. Loads of bone and muscle with a great outlook. At 71kg birth weight this precocious fellow is exactly what we were hoping from the mating.”

Dr Pat Sells, Chasemore Farm

NEW YEAR O L D R I VA L R I E S M ATCHB OOK CLARENCE HO USE CHASE RACEDAY SATURDAY 23RD JANUARY Get ready for our first major Jumps meeting of the year, where some of racing’s biggest stars go head to head Visit ascot.co.uk

R AC E 3 1.50PM T H E “ F O R T H E LOV E O F R AC I N G ” HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2)

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about three furlongs (2m 2f 175yds) (3,700 metres) For four yrs old and upwards Total race value £25000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £11875; Second £3968; Third £1985; Fourth £993; Fifth £495; Sixth £248. (Penalty Value £15640) See page 53 for conditions of this race.

Ascot Racecourse will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and £200 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1 MENGLI KHAN (IRE) (104)

B g Lope de Vega (IRE) - Danielli (IRE) (Danehill (USA)) Owner: Mr Michael Blencowe Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: ROYAL BLUE, BLACK star.

Breeder: Ballylinch Stud Form: 33-1641 D Sponsor: Moretons Investments Ltd, Unibet

Jockey Nico de Boinville

HHH Grade 1 novice hurdle winner in December 2017 for Gordon Elliott and placed in Grade 1 novice chases the next season; failed to fulfil that promise but won a conditions chase at Ballinrobe (2m3f, yielding to soft) in September and was sold for £65,000 nine days later; has joined another top trainer and it will be interesting to see what Nicky Henderson can do with him.

Official BHA Rating 150

2 BENNYS KING (IRE) (42)

B g Beneficial - Hellofafaithful (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)) Owner: Mezzone Family Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 9 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: RED, WHITE sleeves, Breeder: Mr Shane McGuckin BLACK stars, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Cms Kidderminster Form: 1/6152-5 D BF

Harry Skelton

HHHH Reappeared with fair fifth at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft) last month, a run he may improve for, and he’s just 2lb higher than when going close here (2m5f, heavy) on his final outing last season; respected.

Official BHA Rating 147

3 SAINT SONNET (FR) (7)

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Leprechaun Lady (FR) (Irish Wells (FR)) Owner: Mr Colm Donlon Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: ROYAL BLUE and YELLOW (quartered), Breeder: E.A.R.L. Haras de La Croix Sonnet ROYAL BLUE sleeves, YELLOW spots, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 6310-FP D

Harry Cobden

HHH Has failed to shine this autumn in the two major 2m4f handicaps at Cheltenham; however, had an excuse when pulled-up there last Saturday (badly hampered by faller) and this ex-French 5yo retains potential for his top yard, having impressed on Official BHA Rating 146 February’s British debut at Catterick (2m3f, heavy).

4 THEO (IRE) (20)

B g Westerner - Jemima Jay (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Dr R. D. P. Newland Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 4 Trainer: Dr Richard Newland, Droitwich Colours: PURPLE, EMERALD GREEN and Breeder: Gerard Leahy WHITE hooped sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap.

Sponsor: Carehome Selection Ltd Form: 2240P-1 D

Charlie Hammond (3)

HH Goes well fresh and made winning reappearance in Leicester veterans’ chase (2m4f, good) last month; also effective on soft Official BHA Rating 142 but this 10yo may be vulnerable up 3lb and taking on younger rivals today.

5 N OT A N OT H E R M U D D L E ( G B ) ( 2 8 2 )

B g Kayf Tara - Spatham Rose (Environment Friend) Owner: Saloop Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Colours: EMERALD GREEN, MAUVE disc Breeder: Saloop Ltd and sleeves, ORANGE and WHITE check cap.

Form: 1/3152/P- D

HHH Has run just once since April 2019, when pulled-up at last season’s Cheltenham Festival; needs to prove he retains his ability but he’s in calmer waters than last time and ran to peak form on previous returns from a significant time off; not ruled out Official BHA Rating 138 off a handy mark.

2 6 R A C I N G PA G E S

Jamie Moore

3 6 S A I N T D E VA S S Y ( F R ) ( 2 7 )

Br g Saint des Saints (FR) - Mona Vassy (FR) (Sleeping Car (FR)) Owner: Jakeman,Booth,Lanchbury,Mason,Hewlett Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: Tom Symonds, Hentland Colours: MAROON and LIGHT BLUE Breeder: N. Ferrand, B. Ferrand de Cromot et al stripes, hooped cap.

Form: 2/3P2P-1

David Bass

HHH Pulled-up last season on two of his first three chase starts but was clear with a highly progressive winner in between (2m, heavy) and reappeared with 11l win at Exeter (extended 2m1f, soft) last month; up 10lb in better race but could still have more to give and trainer continues in fine form.

Official BHA Rating 133

7 DRUMCLIFF (IRE) (29) B g Presenting - Dusty Too (Terimon) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Harry Fry, Seaborough Breeder: Simon Tindall

Miss Aine O’Connor (5)

Horse Age: 9 Weight: 10 6 Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Form: 0-00363 CD

HHH Not the force of old but has dropped down the weights and there have been two promising runs this autumn, including when third here (2m5f, soft) most recently in first-time cheekpieces (retained); 2-3 (one C&D win) under Aine O’Connor earlier in his career and could again be thereabouts.

Official BHA Rating 130

8 SMARTY WILD (GB) (24) B g Fair Mix (IRE) - Blaeberry (Kirkwall) Owner: Mr Michael and Mrs Norma Tuckey Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Lady Bland Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

Richard Johnson

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 10 6 Colours: DARK GREEN and WHITE diamonds, WHITE sleeves.

Form: 1446-34 D BF

HHH Needs to jump with greater fluency than when fourth at Wetherby (1m7f, good to soft) latest but the step back up in trip is a positive and he was an encouraging third here (2m3f, good to soft) on chase/seasonal debut in October; won off this mark over hurdles and acts on heavy; one to consider.

Official BHA Rating 130

9 KAPGARRY (FR) (285)

B g Ballingarry (IRE) - Kaprissima (FR) (Epervier Bleu) Owner: Options O Syndicate Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 2 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: RED, WHITE disc, Breeder: S.C.P. Haras Des Coudraies diabolo on sleeves.

Sponsor: Options Energy Services Ltd Form: 316001- D

Jamie Bargary

HHH Inconsistent profile but talented on his day and won twice (2m3f/2m6f, soft) from his first six chase starts last season, including when last seen in March; could make a bold bid if at the top of his game on this comeback. Official BHA Rating 126

1 0 E A R LY D U L E M O ( F R ) ( 1 5 ) Gr g Early March - Kiswa (FR) (Top Waltz (FR)) Owner: Mr Ashley Head Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: Mr Maurice Le Floch Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd

Joshua Moore

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 1 Colours: DARK BLUE, PINK hoops, chevrons on sleeves, DARK BLUE cap.

Form: 0U2U1/-2

HHH Back from nearly two years off when going close at Sandown (1m7f, soft) 15 days ago; up 5lb in better race today but the extra yardage could suit, provided this second run back from a long absence doesn’t come too soon. Official BHA Rating 125

11 ENRICHISSANT (FR) (21)

B or Br g Speedmaster (GER) - Quibble (FR) (Jimble (FR)) Owner: Simon & Liz Hunt Horse Age: 6 Weight: 10 1 Trainer: David Bridgwater, Stow-on-the-Wold Colours: RED and WHITE check, BLACK Breeder: Haras D’Ecouves and WHITE check sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Sponsor: Winvic Construction Limited Form: 021-243

Brendan Powell

HHHHH Jumped well in front when 2l third off this mark at Doncaster (2m3f, good to soft) three weeks ago; in a hotter race today but the testing ground provides optimism he can produce a bigger performance, as he was an easy winner on heavy going at Huntingdon (2m4f) in February.

Official BHA Rating 125

12 GARDEFORT (FR) (588)

B or Br g Agent Bleu (FR) - La Fresnaie (FR) (Exit To Nowhere (USA)) Owner: Venetia Williams’ Stable Staff Horse Age: 11 Weight: 10 0 Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Colours: RED, BLACK sleeves, Breeder: S.A.R.L. Carion EMM YELLOW cap, RED star.

Sponsor: Faucets Limited Form: 0PUP2/P-

Charlie Deutsch

HH Well handicapped on his past exploits and represents last year’s winning trainer, who can ready one after a long absence; however, his form was patchy when last seen in spring 2019 and this 11yo may be best watched.

Official BHA Rating 124

R A C I N G PA G E S 2 7

3 Hood worn by No. 4. Tongue Strap worn by No. 3, 7. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 7, 11.

Stewards Note: SAINT SONNET: Following its run on 12/12/2020 it was reported that the horse was badly hampered by a faller.

SMARTY WILD: Following its run on 25/11/2020 it was reported that the horse slowed after an early error.

GARDEFORT: Following its run on 11/5/2019 it was reported that the horse stopped quickly.

2019: ESPOIR DE GUYE (FR) 5 10 11 Charlie Deutsch 11-4 (Venetia Williams) 12 ran

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BETTING FORECAST: 4-1 Saint de Vassy (FR), 6-1 Early du Lemo (FR), 13-2 Saint Sonnet (FR), 8-1 Mengli Khan (IRE), Bennys King (IRE), 9-1 Drumcliff (IRE), 10-1 Not Another Muddle (GB), Smarty Wild (GB), Kapgarry (FR), 12-1 Theo (IRE), 14-1 Enrichissant (FR), 20-1 Gardefort (FR)

2 8 R A C I N G PA G E S

MORE THAN A VENUE, A CANVAS

A N I C O N I C D E ST I N AT I O N TO T H R I L L A N D I N S P I R E Exceed expectations with tailor-made business events and social occasions, hosting anything from small gatherings to grand affairs.

In these turbulent times, our experienced events staff are following government guidelines to ensure the safety of your event. events@ascot.co.uk | 0344 346 3611 | ascot.co.uk/covid-secure

THE LONG WALK HURDLE

BIG BUCK’S ON HIS WAY TO WINNING A THIRD LONG WALK HURDLE IN 2011

As one of Britain’s most prestigious long-distance hurdle races, the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle has been won by many of the greatest staying hurdlers of all time.

Generously sponsored this year by Porsche, the race - which was first run in 1965, initially as a handicap, obtaining Grade 1 status in 1990 - takes its name from the famous tree-lined avenue in Windsor Great Park and is run over a trip of three miles and about half a furlong.

Its most prolific winner was undoubtedly the mighty Baracouda. François Doumen’s dual champion stayer won a record four renewals between 2000 and 2004, the French raider’s final victory in the race - and indeed, the 18th and final victory of his remarkable career - coming at Windsor rather than his beloved Ascot when the Long Walk was rerouted there during the royal racecourse’s redevelopment.

Big Buck’s, who was saddled by Paul Nicholls to win not only three renewals of this prize (2009-2011) but also an unprecedented four editions of the Grade 1 Stayers’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, is another particularly distinguished name on the race’s roll of honour. His first victory in the Long Walk came at Newbury, when heavy snow forced Ascot’s popular Christmas raceday to be abandoned in 2009.

For all their dominance in the Ascot highlight, those two iconic staying hurdlers are by no means the only Long Walk winners to have also landed the Cheltenham championship contest. Indeed, today’s feature race has long been a recognised stage for high-class stayers looking to further their claims for Cheltenham Festival glory three months later and, since the Long Walk Hurdle was first run as a conditions race in 1971, a total of six of its winners have subsequently gone on to win that season’s Stayers’ Hurdle – Derring Rose (1980/81), Baracouda (2001/02), My Way de Solzen (2005/06), Big Buck’s (2009/10, 2010/11 and 2011/12), Thistlecrack (2015/16) and Paisley Park (2018/19). Furthermore, Highland Abbe won the Long Walk in 1972 before claiming the Cheltenham stayers’ prize in 1974, while both 3 0 T H E L O N G WA L K H U R D L E

Princeful (1998) and Anzum (1999) were the reigning champion staying hurdler when following up at Ascot that December. The 1983 winner Crimson Embers would, like Baracouda and Big Buck’s, become a multiple winner of the Stayers’ Hurdle himself, regaining his 1982 championship crown at Cheltenham in 1986.

Another notable winner was the Fred Winter-trained Lanzarote, who had won the previous year’s Champion Hurdle before carrying a record 12st 5lb to a comfortable eight-length victory under John Francome when stepping up in trip in the 1975 Long Walk Hurdle. (Francome and Winter, one of the most successful and longstanding partnerships in National Hunt history, would five years later strike again with the aforementioned Derring Rose.)

John Cherry, a former Cesarewitch winner on the Flat, was the first horse to win the race more than once (1977 and 1979) and remained uniquely so until Baracouda embarked upon his dominance of the staying hurdle division at the start of the next century. In the two decades since, both Big Buck’s and Reve De Sivola have triumphed on three occasions apiece to enhance the race’s reputation as being something of a specialist’s event.

The Long Walk Hurdle’s esteemed list of winners also includes a Grand National hero, Royal Athlete having landed the spoils in 1989 before going on to win the world’s most famous steeplechase for trainer Jenny Pitman as a twelve-year-old in 1995.

However, one of the most memorable characters to have won the Long Walk was the Martin Pipe-trained Deano’s Beeno, who had filled the runners-up spot on no fewer than three consecutive occasions before finally prevailing in 2002. The immensely likeable yet often recalcitrant gelding, sent off a largely unconsidered 14-1 chance, repelled a formidable challenge laid down by Baracouda at the final flight to win by a length under a galvanising ride by Tony McCoy – a thrilling performance which raised the roof at an Ascot enshrouded by thick fog.

Ascot’s Christmas showpiece continues to attract the very best staying hurdlers in training, this afternoon’s edition being no exception. Returning to the Berkshire track after having missed the race on account of testing conditions last year is the 2018 victor and subsequent Stayers’ Hurdle champion Paisley Park. Owner Andrew Gemmell’s pride and joy was last seen finishing second in the Grade 2 Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury when conceding 3lb to the winner Thyme Hill. The pair reoppose today, with Paisley Park bidding to become the race’s fifth multiple winner. Also amongst a high-class field is Main Fact, seeking a remarkable tenth consecutive win; the highly-regarded marethe highly-regarded mare Roksana, herself a former Cheltenham Festival winner who landed the Grade 2 West Yorkshire Hurdle last time out; last year’s Long Walk winner The Worlds End; and the enduringly popular twelve-year-old Thistlecrack, another former winner of both this race and the Cheltenham stayers’ championship (2015/16) as well as the King George VI Chase (2016), who makes his seasonal debut after more than a year’s absence enforced by injury.

We hope you enjoy what is set to be an enthralling renewal of Ascot’s first Grade 1 of the season; an early Christmas cracker if you will.

T H E L O N G WA L K H U R D L E 3 1

SOMETHING T R U LY WO N D E R F U L W E D D I N G S AT A S C OT R AC E CO U R S E Renowned for its hospitality, Fine Dining and unequalled sense of style, Ascot’s heritage and prestige make it an inspirational setting for an outstanding occasion.

For a 2021 wedding brochure please call 0344 346 3611 or visit www.ascot.co.uk/wedding-venue

R AC E 4 2.25PM THE PORSCHE L O N G WA L K H U R D L E R A C E ( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 1 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Three miles about half a furlong (3m 97yds) (4,800 metres) For four yrs old and upwards Total race value £80000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £34864; Second £14312; Third £7160; Fourth £3576; Fifth £1792; Sixth £896. (Penalty Value £45560) A See page 53 for conditions of this race.

Porsche will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and £200 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1 M A I N FA C T ( U S A ) ( 2 8 )

B g Blame (USA) - Reflections (Sadler’s Wells (USA)) Owner: Munrowd’s Partnership Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington Colours: WHITE, MAROON stars, Breeder: Juddmonte Farms Inc sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: 11111-1 D

Jockey Fergus Gillard

HHH Made it nine wins on the spin (Flat/hurdles) when defying lofty mark in major Haydock handicap hurdle (3m, soft) last month; Fergus Gillard claimed 7lb then, which he can’t today, and there is something to find on form with the principals, but this thriving 7yo is unexposed over 3m and very testing ground would play to his strengths as he’s a multiple winner on heavy. Official BHA Rating 154

2 PA I S L E Y PA R K ( I R E ) ( 2 2 )

B g Oscar (IRE) - Presenting Shares (IRE) (Presenting) Owner: Mr Andrew Gemmell Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Emma Lavelle, Marlborough Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK disc, MAROON sleeves, Breeder: M. Conaghan ROYAL BLUE stars, DARK BLUE cap, PINK spots.

Sponsor: Hatherden Horse Transport Form: 11/110-2 CD

Aidan Coleman

HHHH Won this in 2018 (soft) before going on to land that season’s Stayers’ Hurdle; non-runner in this last year due to heavy ground; below-par in last season’s Stayers’ Hurdle but reappeared with solid second to Thyme Hill in Newbury Grade 2 (3m, good) and is 3lb better off with the winner for a length and a half; could build on that performance and he’s a big player.

Official BHA Rating 165

3 PORTRUSH TED (IRE) (15)

B g Shantou (USA) - Village Queen (IRE) (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: McNeill Family Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE hoops, Breeder: Mrs Mary F. Griffin MAROON sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions Form: 21/1/1F-1 D

Gavin Sheehan

HH Better than ever when back from latest absence with win in Sandown handicap (2m7f, heavy) recently; could be more to come from this lightly raced 8yo and the testing ground is a plus, but he may find it tough in this company. Official BHA Rating 144

4 THE JAM MAN (IRE) (28)

Br g Papal Bull - Kathy Jet (USA) (Singspiel (IRE)) Owner: Ronan M. P. McNally Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Ronan M. P. McNally, Northern Ireland Colours: ROYAL BLUE, Breeder: Leo O’Reilly ORANGE stars on sleeves and cap.

Form: 420-P16 D

Denis O’Regan

HH Seriously progressive on the Flat and over hurdles/fences in the last two seasons, and easily won a competitive handicap chase at Navan (3m, soft to heavy) last month; didn’t run badly when sixth of 17 to Main Fact in hot handicap hurdle at Haydock (3m, soft) last time but vulnerable again today.

Official BHA Rating 148

5 THE WORLDS END (IRE) (63) B g Stowaway - Bright Sprite (IRE) (Beneficial) Owner: McNeill Family Trainer: Olly Murphy, Wilmcote Breeder: J. Sheehan Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions

Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 7 Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE hoops, MAROON sleeves and cap.

Form: 0/131P-P CD

HH Won this for Tom George on heavy ground last year and has changed stables having been pulled-up the next twice; it’s possible he’ll have been revived by the change of scenery but this season’s renewal is much stronger and he needs a career best Official BHA Rating 155 to come out on top again.

3 4 R A C I N G PA G E S

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

4 6 THIRD WIND (GB) (28)

B or Br g Shirocco (GER) - Act Three (Beat Hollow) Owner: Mouse Hamilton-Fairley Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Hughie Morrison, East Ilsley Colours: BLACK, PINK cross belts, Breeder: Mrs Mouse Hamilton-Fairley armlets and star on cap.

Sponsor: Bridgend Hotel Form: 1/014-52 BF

Tom O’Brien

HH Heavy-ground winner who has been admirably consistent in competitive staying handicaps and was a good second to Main Fact at Haydock (3m, soft) last time; however, he’s up against it now taking on the best around. Official BHA Rating 144

7 T H I S T L E C R AC K ( G B ) ( 3 8 6 ) B g Kayf Tara - Ardstown (Ardross) Owner: John and Heather Snook Trainer: Colin Tizzard, Sherborne Breeder: R. F. and S. D. Knipe Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited

Tom Scudamore

Horse Age: 12 Weight: 11 7 Colours: ORANGE, BLACK triple diamond, chevrons on sleeves.

Form: 54/32P/2- CD

HH Won this in 2015 and also that season’s World (now Stayers’) Hurdle; lightly-raced since winning the 2016 King George and showed he retained plenty of spark when second to Paisley Park in a Grade 2 hurdle last November, but this 12yo might be best watched on today’s return from more time off.

Official BHA Rating 157

8 THYME HILL (GB) (22) B g Kayf Tara - Rosita Bay (Hernando (FR)) Owner: The Englands and Heywoods Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Overbury Stallions Ltd Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

Richard Johnson

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Colours: PURPLE, EMERALD GREEN hoop, checked sleeves, WHITE cap.

Form: 3/1114-1 D

HHHHH Won first three hurdle starts, including a Grade 1, and an unlucky fourth in the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham (3m, soft) where denied a clear run; returned with win from Paisley Park in Newbury Grade 2 (3m, good) last month and, although the runner-up is 3lb better off for length and a half, there could be even more to come from this lightly raced 6yo; unraced on heavy.

Official BHA Rating 160

9 YO U N E V E R CA L L ( I R E ) ( 4 0) B g Yeats (IRE) - Afarka (IRE) (Kahyasi) Owner: Youneverknow Partnership Trainer: Kim Bailey, Cheltenham Breeder: Paddy Kennedy Sponsor: Kim Bailey Racing Ltd

David Bass

Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 7 Colours: ORANGE, BLACK and ORANGE check sleeves, striped cap.

Form: 0//2101/-2

HHH Won Sandown Grade 2 (2m5f, good) in April 2019 and returned from long absence with a cracking second off top weight in Kempton handicap (2m5f, good) last month; has run well over 3m in the past and has each-way claims on form, but needs to prove he can be fully effective on testing ground.

Official BHA Rating 156

1 0 R O K S A N A ( I R E ) ( 4 9 )

B m Dubai Destination (USA) - Talktothetail (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Mrs Sarah Faulks Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: PINK, ROYAL BLUE chevron, Breeder: John O’Leary Sponsor: Ladbrokes, halved sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap.

The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 2/2524-1 D

Harry Skelton

HHHH Faces tougher task than when winning Wetherby Grade 2 (3m, soft) on reappearance but did it in fine style and her only other two starts over about 3m have yielded Grade 1 second places, also against males; could have a major say with a handy mares’ allowance; won on heavy early in her career.

Official BHA Rating 153 Tongue Strap worn by No. 3, 9. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 9.

2019: THE WORLDS END (IRE) 8 11 7 A P Heskin 15-8 (Tom George) 4 ran

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BETTING FORECAST: 7-4 Thyme Hill (GB), 9-4 Paisley Park (IRE), 11-2 Main Fact (USA), 6-1 Roksana (IRE), 16-1 The Worlds End (IRE), Younevercall (IRE), 20-1 Thistlecrack (GB), 25-1 The Jam Man (IRE), 33-1 Third Wind (GB), 50-1 Portrush Ted (IRE)

3 6 R A C I N G PA G E S

THRILLING A N D T H AT ’ S J U ST T H E MENU A S C OT R AC E DAY F I N E D I N I N G Celebrate over lunch with your favourite people and turn memorable occasions into unforgettable ones. hospitality@ascot.co.uk | 0344 346 3000 | ascot.co.uk/finedining

R AC E 5 3.00PM T H E G O O D LU C K H O L L I E I N S P OT Y S I LV E R C U P H A N D I C A P S T E E P L E C H A S E ( C L A S S 1 ) ( L I S T E D R AC E ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

About three miles (2m 7f 180yds) (4,700 metres) For four yrs old and upwards Total race value £60000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £26148; Second £10734; Third £5370; Fourth £2682; Fifth £1344; Sixth £672.

(Penalty Value £34170) Weights raised 3lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

See page 53 for conditions of this race.

Ascot Racecourse will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and £200 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1 B E WA R E T H E B E A R ( I R E ) ( 2 1 )

B g Shantou (USA) - Native Bid (IRE) (Be My Native (USA)) Owner: Mr G. B. Barlow Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: ROYAL BLUE, RED and ROYAL BLUE Breeder: Mrs Marilyn Syme striped sleeves, BLACK and RED hooped cap.

Sponsor: Unibet Form: 11P/40-5 CD

Jockey Jeremiah McGrath

HHHH Strong stayer who can look hard work but he won at the 2019 Cheltenham Festival and has been fourth (twice) and fifth in the last three renewals of the 3m2f Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury; good ground (he acts on heavy) was surely not ideal in the latest edition three weeks ago and he won his only race at this track; each-way player.

Official BHA Rating 157

2 MISTER MALARKY (GB) (21) Ch g Malinas (GER) - Priscilla (Teenoso (USA)) Owner: Wendy & Malcolm Hezel Trainer: Colin Tizzard, Sherborne Breeder: H. T. Cole Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited, Tote

Harry Cobden

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 5 Colours: PURPLE, PINK stars, PURPLE sleeves, PURPLE cap, PINK star.

Form: 6P1P-6U CD

HH Best efforts and all wins on good/good to soft, last season taking a major 3m handicap at Kempton in February (3lb higher today); blinkers replaced cheekpieces (which return today) when he unseated before halfway at 25-1 in the Ladbrokes Trophy three weeks ago; ground is the big worry.

Official BHA Rating 150

3 ESPOIR DE GUYE (FR) (29)

B g Khalkevi (IRE) - Penelope de Guye (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Mrs J. Hitchings Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 5 Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Colours: RED, WHITE star, DARK BLUE Breeder: G.A.E.C. Delorme Gerard & Vincent sleeves, WHITE stars, RED cap, WHITE star.

Sponsor: Faucets Limited Form: 2/211P-1 C

Charlie Deutsch

HHH Two easy wins (2m3f, soft/heavy) switched to fences last year before pulled-up at the Cheltenham Festival; had wind surgery before reappearing with a win here (2m5f, soft) four weeks ago, in battling style which suggested he would stay further; 6lb rise Official BHA Rating 150 demands more but he’s just a 6yo, very lightly raced and progressive; also 2-2 here.

4 REGAL ENCORE (IRE) (21)

B g King’s Theatre (IRE) - Go On Eileen (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 12 Weight: 11 5 Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Mr John Browne YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk Form: 2P13-1P CD

Richie McLernon

HHHH Well suited by 3m here where he’s registered seven of his top nine RPRs, including wins in this race in 2016 and 2019 (heavy); another was his reappearance win in October following a second wind operation; no shock if he bounces straight back from his Newbury Ladbrokes Trophy run, when good ground was probably against him, but this 12yo may well need a career best.

Official BHA Rating 150

5 SUB LIEUTENANT (IRE) (141)

B g Brian Boru - Satellite Dancer (IRE) (Satco (FR)) Owner: Ms G. Howell Horse Age: 11 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Georgie Howell, Tenbury Wells Colours: YELLOW, MAUVE epaulets.

Breeder: Edmond Coleman Form: P2/04-02

HH Three-time Grade 1 runner-up whose prime for Gigginstown and Henry De Bromhead was in 2016-17 season; now an 11yo but second at Galway this July (sold for £50,000 in September) suggested that this mark could be generous; fine on heavy going but he is often seen over shorter trips.

Official BHA Rating 147

4 0 R A C I N G PA G E S

Tabitha Worsley (5)

5 6 THE CONDITIONAL (IRE) (21)

B g Kalanisi (IRE) - Gorrie Vale (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) Owner: Mr P. J. Cave Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 1 Trainer: David Bridgwater, Stow-on-the-Wold Colours: EMERALD GREEN, RED sash, Breeder: Brendan Ferris halved sleeves, RED cap.

Form: 31241-3 D

Brendan Powell

HHHHH Won Irish maiden hurdle on heavy; improved with new yard last term, rounding it off with a win at the Cheltenham Festival (3m1f, soft); travels well and overcame a blunder two out at Cheltenham, suggesting he had more in the tank; reappearance three weeks ago saw further improvement when placed for the second year running in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury and, dropped 1lb, further progress looks likely for trainer who won this race in 2012.

Official BHA Rating 146

7 FA U B U R G R O S E T G R I ( F R ) ( 2 8 )

B g Sageburg (IRE) - Fausse Annonce (FR) (Sheikh Albadou) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: EMERALD GREEN, DARK GREEN sleeves, Breeder: Mme Celine Honneux DARK GREEN and EMERALD GREEN quartered cap.

Sponsor: Ptarmigan Media Limited Form: 415PP-P

Daryl Jacob

HH 1-14 over hurdles in France and 5-22 over fences, pretty useful in both spheres and latest win was at Auteuil (2m6f, heavy) in November 2019; bit more to prove at around 3m, over which he pulled-up when 80-1 in red-hot handicap hurdle on British debut four weeks ago; that’s three pulled-ups in a row but in most circumstances you’d say he should be better for the run.

Official BHA Rating 143

8 Q U A R E N TA ( F R ) ( 2 9 )

B or Br g Voix du Nord (FR) - Negresse de Cuta (FR) (Baroud d’Honneur (FR)) Owner: Martin, Jocelyn & Steve Broughton Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 11 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: RED, EMERALD GREEN Breeder: Robin Van Haaren & Evelyne Van Haaren Cross of Lorraine and sleeves.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 4120B-1 CD

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHH Went close in warm handicap at Kempton (3m) last Christmas and made a winning return over C&D four weeks ago, both on soft; came from off the pace and saw it out very well last time, so of major interest despite 5lb rise. Official BHA Rating 142

9 F LY I N G A N G E L ( I R E ) ( 1 4 )

Gr g Arcadio (GER) - Gypsy Kelly (IRE) (Roselier (FR)) Owner: Mr R. J. Rexton Horse Age: 9 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: DARK GREEN, YELLOW mirrored ‘R’s bisected Breeder: Arctic Tack Stud by a crossed hook, collar, cuffs & cap, DARK GREEN button Sponsor: Agetur (UK) Ltd on cap & cuffs.

Form: 1460-P4 C

Tom Bellamy

HHH Has a mixed Ascot record but on the same mark as when winning here (2m5f, soft) last November; pulled-up behind Regal Encore on reappearance but fourth of 18 over the big fences at Aintree two weeks ago was vastly better; stays 3m and acts on heavy; case can be made.

Official BHA Rating 140

1 0 A R D L E T H E N ( I R E ) ( 2 1 )

Ch g Arakan (USA) - Itsafamilyaffair (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)) Owner: Mike and Eileen Newbould Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 6 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: BLACK, WHITE Cross of Lorraine, Breeder: Mrs Eileen Comer Sponsor: sleeves and cap.

The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 3520-56 D

Harry Skelton

HHH Rather mixed after winning last season’s chase debut but best efforts (on soft) demand respect and he performed creditably first time out this term considering the stiff task and inadequate 2m4f; not disgraced when 23l sixth in the Ladbrokes Trophy latest but two of today’s rivals were ahead.

Official BHA Rating 137

1 1 E N FA N T R O I ( F R ) ( 2 0 )

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Super Maman (FR) (Robin des Champs (FR)) Owner: Mr James Finch Horse Age: 6 Weight: 10 1 Trainer: Sophie Leech, Westbury-on-Severn Colours: RED and BLACK check, PINK Breeder: Xavier Leredde & Daniel Desforges sleeves, BLACK armlets, hooped cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: 11-1512

Sean Houlihan (3)

HHHH 0-6 over French hurdles but 4-6 there over fences, notably when running away with a claimer at Auteuil in October; again 2m6f on heavy going there when runner-up in a handicap three weeks ago, not jumping so badly to his right as the time before; not the cleanest jumper but he looks on a competitive mark and the move up to 3m looks appealing.

Official BHA Rating 132 Blinkers worn by No. 1. Visor worn by No. 9.

Tongue Strap worn by No. 4, 5. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 6.

2019: REGAL ENCORE (IRE) 11 10 7 Richie McLernon 16-1 (Anthony Honeyball) 10 ran

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BETTING FORECAST: 3-1 The Conditional (IRE), 5-1 Espoir de Guye (FR), 11-2 Quarenta (FR), 6-1 Regal Encore (IRE), 8-1 Ardlethen (IRE), 9-1 Beware The Bear (IRE), Mister Malarky (GB), 14-1 Flying Angel (IRE), Enfant Roi (FR), 16-1 Sub Lieutenant (IRE), 40-1 Fauburg Rosetgri (FR)

4 2 R A C I N G PA G E S

Elegance is an attitude Kate Winslet

Record collection

R AC E 6 3.35PM T H E B E T FA I R E XC H A N G E T R O P H Y ( A H A N D I CA P H U R D L E R AC E ) ( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 3 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

About two miles (1m 7f 152yds) (3,100 metres) For four yrs old and upwards Total race value £100000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £43580; Second £17890; Third £8950; Fourth £4470; Fifth £2240; Sixth £1120.

(Penalty Value £56950) Weights raised 4lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

See page 53 for conditions of this race.

Betfair will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and £200 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1 BUZZ (FR) (29)

Gr g Motivator - Tiysha (IRE) (Araafa (IRE)) Owner: Thurloe for Royal Marsden Cancer Charity Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Breeder: Christian Maillaut & Matthieu Maillaut Sponsor: Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, Osborne Studio Gallery

Jockey Nico de Boinville

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 12 Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW stripe, YELLOW cap.

Form: 114-31 CD

HHHH 3-5 as a hurdler, with a very impressive 7l win in 11-runner C&D race (soft; unraced on heavy) on latest outing; has now not just reaffirmed his Flat class but promises to be markedly better as a hurdler and he is one to take very seriously despite 11lb rise.

Official BHA Rating 148

2 MASTER DEBONAIR (GB) (42)

Br g Yeats (IRE) - Swincombe Flame (Exit To Nowhere (USA)) Owner: The Gosden Mob & Sprayclad UK Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 11 Trainer: Colin Tizzard, Sherborne Colours: MAUVE and WHITE check, Breeder: M. C. and Mrs Yeo WHITE sleeves, MAUVE armlets.

Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited Form: 5/2113-6 CD

Harry Kimber (7)

HH Did well in novice hurdles initially last season, notably in a Grade 2 on heavy going over C&D from the front; ended that campaign with a lesser show here and reappeared with a heavy defeat at Wincanton, so caution is advised despite this return to much softer ground; 7lb claimer enlisted.

Official BHA Rating 147

3 B O T OX H A S ( F R ) ( 2 1 ) B g Dream Well (FR) - Bournie (FR) (Kahyasi) Owner: Mr John Stone Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: S.C.E.A. Hamel Stud Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd

Joshua Moore

Horse Age: 4 Weight: 11 10 Colours: WHITE, DARK GREEN hoops, WHITE sleeves and cap.

Form: 2/121-14 D

HHH Did well in two juvenile events late last year on soft at Cheltenham; returned with a win in 4yo event there in October but his fourth on handicap debut at Newbury shows that improvement is needed; that’s possible for a youngster and the return to more testing ground may well help.

Official BHA Rating 146

4 KID COMMANDO (GB) (28)

B g Robin des Champs (FR) - Banjaxed Girl (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Chapman, Hanger, Kingston & Langford Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Colours: BLACK, WHITE braces, YELLOW Breeder: Little Lodge Farm & Rahinston Farm sleeves, BLACK stars, YELLOW cap, WHITE star.

Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk Form: 2513-16 CD

Richie McLernon

HH Usually front-runner; below form on heavy here in a bumper 12 months ago; made it 2-3 over hurdles on handicap/seasonal debut over C&D (soft) in October but needs to bounce back from a lesser show at Haydock, where the 2m3f was seemingly not responsible.

Official BHA Rating 143

5 HARAMBE (GB) (34)

Br g Malinas (GER) - Crystal Princess (IRE) (Definite Article) Owner: Niall Farrell & Friends Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: YELLOW, BLACK Cross of Lorraine, Breeder: Mrs L. V. Williamson YELLOW sleeves, BLACK stars, BLACK cap.

Sponsor: Hare Group Ltd Form: 12/01B-F D

HHHH Led final strides in a major handicap at Cheltenham last November and he was in the process of running well in the same race when falling at the last five weeks ago, both on soft; career best is needed to win this but he’s an each-way contender.

Official BHA Rating 142

4 6 R A C I N G PA G E S

Tom Bellamy

6 6 N OT SO S L E E PY (G B ) ( 2 1)

Ch g Beat Hollow - Papillon de Bronze (IRE) (Marju (IRE)) Owner: Lady Blyth Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Hughie Morrison, East Ilsley Colours: PALE BLUE, CAMPBELL TARTAN Breeder: Lord Blyth hooped sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Sponsor: Bridgend Hotel Form: 5/110P-R CD

Tom O’Brien

HHHH Races freely but nevertheless easily made all in this race on heavy ground last year, sprinting well clear approaching the final flight; 15lb higher this time round and his three subsequent hurdle races have gone far from smoothly, misbehaving approaching the first flight at Newcastle three weeks ago, but he ran well on the Flat this autumn and his win here 12 months ago is not easily forgotten.

Official BHA Rating 142

7 W E ST TO T H E B R I D G E ( I R E ) ( 2 8 )

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Godlylady (IRE) (Old Vic) Owner: Mr J. Tierney Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 4 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: MAROON, WHITE stripe Breeder: Mr L. Dunne Sponsor: Ladbrokes, and armlets, striped cap.

The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 105-215

Harry Skelton

HHH Very versatile tactically but held up on his last three starts; won easily at Carlisle (2m4f, heavy) on second run this term and far from disgraced in red-hot 3m race next time; there is plenty to prove, however, back at this trip. Official BHA Rating 140

8 M A L AYA ( F R ) ( 4 9 ) B m Martaline - Clarte d’Or (FR) (Kendor (FR)) Owner: Mrs Johnny de la Hey Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mr Athanase Poulopoulos Sponsor: Morson Group

Harry Cobden

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 3 Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoops, armlets and cap.

Form: 0/3602-2 CD

HHH Won over C&D in 2018 and runner-up here in February and October (to Kid Commando) on last two outings; also won the 2019 Imperial Cup on soft going but below form on heavy; needs extra and is tongue tied for first time. Official BHA Rating 139

9 ARRIVEDERCI (FR) (28)

Gr g Martaline - Etoile d’Ainay (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Martin Broughton & Friends 1 Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: RED, EMERALD GREEN Breeder: Stephane Milaveau Cross of Lorraine and sleeves.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 3021-1F D BF

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHH Had a solid novice campaign, including on heavy, and reappeared with a win at Wetherby (2m3f, soft) on handicap debut; set for another leading role when he fell three out at Haydock latest; up another 2lb since and back in trip, with tongue-tie first time, but could still be capable of better.

Official BHA Rating 138

1 0 L I G H T LY S Q U E E Z E ( G B ) ( 6 2 )

B g Poet’s Voice - Zuleika Dobson (Cadeaux Genereux) Owner: J Davies and Govier and Brown Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 1 Trainer: Harry Fry, Seaborough Colours: EMERALD GREEN, RED stars, RED and Breeder: Highbury Stud Ltd YELLOW check sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap, YELLOW star.

Sponsor: Citipost Form: 3111F-0 D

Sean Bowen

HHH Completed quick hat-trick in the mud last winter (1m7f-2m3f) and held narrow advantage before last-flight fall in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury (2m, good) in February; below-par on return to hurdling in October and has since had wind surgery; also has tongue tied first time, so if he resumes progress there would be reasons.

Official BHA Rating 137

1 1 OA K L E Y ( I R E ) ( 6 6 ) B g Oscar (IRE) - Tirolean Dance (IRE) (Tirol) Owner: Tim Syder Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Mr James Egan Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

Richard Johnson

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 1 Colours: RED and WHITE check, WHITE cap.

Form: 33200-3 D

HHH Placed three times last term, including on soft over C&D, before finding two top handicaps too demanding; respectable third at Wetherby on return may well tee him up for a return to form but he probably needs improvement.

Official BHA Rating 137

12 BENSON (GB) (14) B g Beat Hollow - Karla June (Unfuwain (USA)) Owner: Pump & Plant Services Ltd Trainer: Dr Richard Newland, Droitwich Breeder: Netherfield House Stud Sponsor: Pump & Plant Services Ltd

Gavin Sheehan

Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 1 Colours: MAUVE, YELLOW seams, YELLOW cap.

Form: 4R0-111 D

HHHH Three from three since wind surgery, latest with a late bid despite a stumble two out in a strongly run race for handicap debut at Sandown (2m, heavy) when tongue tied first time; goes very well on heavy going and should still be capable of better, but 10lb rise Official BHA Rating 137 does demand it.

R A C I N G PA G E S 4 7

6 13 NIGHT EDITION (FR) (283)

B g Authorized (IRE) - Night Serenade (IRE) (Golan (IRE)) Owner: Mr Stuart & Simon Mercer & John Gent Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 13 Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington Colours: BLACK, WHITE hoops Breeder: Mme Waltraut Spanner and sleeves, hooped cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: 4212- D

Tom Scudamore

HHHHH Pick of his soft-ground juvenile form last season was at Cheltenham when runner-up in both a Grade 2 in January and big 4yo handicap at the Festival; up 2lb and the hood (discarded on last two outings) returns; firmly on the up when last seen and needs major respect.

Official BHA Rating 135

14 CORMIER (IRE) (34)

B g Born To Sea (IRE) - Scotch Bonnet (IRE) (Montjeu (IRE)) Owner: Mr Dan Gilbert Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 11 Trainer: Brian Ellison, Malton Colours: BLACK and LIGHT BLUE check, Breeder: Grangecon Stud BLACK sleeves, LIGHT BLUE armlets, RED cap.

Sponsor: Brian Ellison Racing Limited Form: P110 D

Daryl Jacob

HH Best Flat form (including on soft) before hooded and gaining further wins in a maiden hurdle at Uttoxeter and novice hurdle at Fakenham (both 2m, on good to soft/good); did that stylishly but came up short in a major race at Cheltenham (soft) in his first handicap hurdle; hood is removed.

Official BHA Rating 133

15 TIME FLIES BY (IRE) (29)

Ch g Getaway (GER) - What A Mewsment (IRE) (Persian Mews) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 5 Weight: 10 7 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Hugh O’Connor YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Form: 1235-2 D BF

Aidan Coleman

HH All five starts on soft or heavy; plenty of promise in his two bumpers at Cheltenham and first two runs over hurdles were Grade 2s; never quite got to grips with Nicholls-trained rival here (2m3f) on return and, although he is seriously unexposed, this is a very warm race Official BHA Rating 129 for handicap debut.

1 6 B E L FA S T B A N T E R ( I R E ) ( 3 5 )

B g Jeremy (USA) - Sumtin Nice (IRE) (Simply Great (FR)) Owner: Direct Bloodstock Limited Horse Age: 5 Weight: 10 7 Trainer: Peter Fahey, Ireland Colours: WHITE, ROYAL BLUE star, Breeder: Seamus Cooney sleeves and star on cap.

Form: 225312 D

Kevin Sexton

HHHH Galway maiden in October was his only win in 11 starts over hurdles, wearing a tongue-tie first time and it’s been kept since; good second in novice at Punchestown (2m1f, soft to heavy) on latest start; this looks a competitive mark for handicap debut and Official BHA Rating 129 the recent success of Irish runners in Britain is hard to ignore.

1 7 I S O L AT E ( F R ) ( 3 3 ) B g Maxios - Unaided (Dansili) Owner: Noel Fehily Racing- Isolate Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Breeder: S.A.R.L. de Chambure Sponsor: Hare Group Ltd

Tom Cannon

Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 6 Colours: RED, WHITE chevron, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, YELLOW stars, WHITE cap.

Form: 2-311 D

HHH Improved to win comfortably in novice at Taunton (2m, good to firm) in October on his third start over hurdles; no problems following up when 4-7 at Leicester (1m7f, soft) and he’s a dark horse but this handicap debut is a very different assignment.

Official BHA Rating 128 Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 8, 9, 10.

Hood worn by No. 7, 13. Tongue Strap worn by No. 12, 16.

Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 10.

Stewards Note: MASTER DEBONAIR: Following its run on 7/11/2020 it was reported that the horse would prefer a slower surface.

CORMIER: Following its run on 15/11/2020 it was reported that the horse lost a shoe.

2019: NOT SO SLEEPY 7 10 3 Jonathan Burke 9-2 (Hughie Morrison) 13 ran

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R A C I N G PA G E S 4 9

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Pennyhill Park PGIM Real Estate Property Raceday The Ritz Club The Royal Foresters Ruddy Joinery & Fit-Out Specialists Savills Signature Capital Sky Bet Tattersalls

Les Ambassadeurs Casino

Thames Materials

Lexicon Recruitment Ltd

Trant Engineering Ltd

Liontrust

Trisoft Limited

LondonMetric Property Plc

The Vent Family

CMS

Long Harbour

UK Tote Group Ltd

Coral

Mar-Key Group

Veolia

Creativevents

Matchbook

Wood & Wood Signs

Cunard

McGee Group Ltd

The Wooldridge Group

Chapel Down Charbonnel et Walker Close Brothers Property Finance Limited

ASCOT’S SPONSORS 51

TODAY’S OFFICIALS A S C OT A U T H O R I T Y (HOLDINGS) L I M I T E D B OA R D

A S C OT R AC E C O U R S E L I M I T E D B OA R D

S T E WA R D S

Doctors Roger Goulds, Peter Johnson, John Heathcock, Guy Mitchell Commentator Simon Holt Equine Welfare and Integrity Officers Darren Stone Steve Fox Vincent McKevitt Christopher Maiden Lisa Cook Mel Baker Veterinary Officers Lucinda Tyler Colin Roberts

Sir Francis Brooke Bt. (Chairman and Her Majesty’s Representative) Lady Celina Carter Guy Davison Guy Henderson Ian McGregor CVO Harry Morley Nick Smith Alastair Warwick

Simon Cowley (Chief Steward) Rupert Sweeting (Stewards’ Panel Chair) Chris Hill, Guy Upton, Richard Westropp, Lyn Williams

OFFICIALS

Starters James Stenning Steven Avis Clerk of the Scales Georgina Robarts Judge Guy Lewis

Guy Henderson (Chief Executive Officer) Ian McGregor CVO Jonathan Parker Nick Smith Alastair Warwick

A S C OT R AC E C O U R S E BETTING & GAMING L I M I T E D B OA R D Guy Henderson (Executive Chairman) Alastair Warwick (Managing Director) Ian McGregor CVO Nigel Payne Nick Smith

Veterinary Surgeons Svend Kold, DrMedVet, CUEW, RFP, MRCVS, RCVS Specialist in Equine Surgery (Orthopaedics) Bobby McEwen, BVSc, MRCVS Simon Knapp LVO, BVetMed, BSc, MRCVS Clive Hamblin, BVetMed, MRCVS Director of Racing and Public Affairs Nick Smith Head of Racing and Clerk of the Course Chris Stickels

RACE CONDITIONS First Race 12.40 - THE FOUNDATION DEVELOPMENTS NOVICES’ HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £5588 to the winning horse The second to receive £1640, the third £820, the fourth £410, the fifth £350, the sixth £350, the seventh £350 and the eighth £350. for novice four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-120 (also open to such horses rated 121 and 122 - see Standard Conditions). £40 stake if the horse is rated 94 or higher, or £8 stake if the horse is rated 93 or lower with £32 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 17th. Penalties, after December 12th, 2020, for each hurdle race won 7lb.

Foundation Developments has generously sponsored this race and a memento will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £100 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of FOUNDATION DEVELOPMENTS. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 26 entries at £40. - Closed December 14th, 2020.

Owners Prize Money. Winner £4260; Second £1411; Third £706; Fourth £353; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280; Eighth £280.

(Penalty Value £5588.28) SEE PAGE 12 FOR THIS RACE. Second Race 1.15 - THE INJURED JOCKEYS FUND GRADUATION STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £18768 to the winning horse The second to receive £5544, the third £2772 and the fourth £1386. for four yrs old and upwards, which have not won more than two steeple chases. Enter by noon, December 14th and pay £100 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 17th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 8lb; 5-y-o and up 11st Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 3 steeple chase 4lb Of 2 steeple chases or of a Class 1 or Class 2 steeple chase 7lb Allowances: Horses which, before April 26th, 2020 had not won a steeple chase 4lb No allowance to take a Horse’s weight below 10st. Injured Jockeys Fund has sponsored this race and a memento will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £100 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. The British Horseracing Authority’s Development Fund has generously contributed £15000 towards the prize money for this race. 9 entries at £100. - Closed December 14th, 2020.

Owners Prize Money. Winner £14250; Second £4761; Third £2382; Fourth £1191. (Penalty Value £18768) A SEE PAGE 20 FOR THIS RACE.

52 TODAY’S OFFICIALS

Third Race 1.50 - THE “FOR THE LOVE OF RACING” HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £15640 to the winning horse The second to receive £4620, the third £2310, the fourth £1155, the fifth £577 and the sixth £290. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-150 (also open to such horses rated 151 and 152 - see Standard Conditions). £125 stake if the horse is rated 124 or higher, or £25 stake if the horse is rated 123 or lower with £100 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m.

December 17th. Penalties, after December 12th, 2020, for each steeple chase won 7lb. A memento will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £200 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if, up to and including the Saturday prior to closing, it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France or, having run in two such races, has been placed in the first four on each occasion, in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 16 entries at £125. - Closed December 14th, 2020. Owners Prize Money. Winner £11875; Second £3968; Third £1985; Fourth £993; Fifth £495; Sixth £248. (Penalty Value £15640) SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE. Fourth Race 2.25 - THE PORSCHE LONG WALK HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £45560 to the winning horse The second to receive £17096, the third £8560, the fourth £4264, the fifth £2144 and the sixth £1072. for four yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating of 130 or more by the BHA Head of Handicapping following a review of the horses entered and after taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation. Horses which are not qualified for a rating in Great Britain, Ireland or France may also be entered. Such horses may be eligible providing the Handicapper is satisfied that the horse’s racecourse performances up to and including the day prior to confirmation would merit a minimum rating of 130. The decision of the BHA Head of Handicapping shall be final.. Enter by noon, December 1st and pay £100 stake, Confirm by noon, December 14th and pay £300, Supplementary Entry by noon, December 14th and pay £3000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 17th. Weights: 11st 7lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb.

Porsche has generously sponsored this race and a memento will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £100 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of PORSCHE. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 48 Hour Declarations apply for this race. Ascot Racecourse will provide 1,000 Euros towards the cost of travel of any horse trained outside Great Britain, travelling to Ascot for the express purpose of running in this race, returning to their home stable after the race and not being placed in the first four finishers. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Runners will be paraded in the order requested by the managing executive on the day. 23 entries, 9 at £100, 14 at £400.

- Closed December 1st, 2020. Owners Prize Money. Winner £34864; Second £14312; Third £7160; Fourth £3576; Fifth £1792; Sixth £896. (Penalty Value £45560) A SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE. Fifth Race 3.00 - THE GOOD LUCK HOLLIE IN SPOTY SILVER CUP HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £34170 to the winning horse The second to receive £12822, the third £6420, the fourth £3198, the fifth £1608 and the sixth £804. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, December 1st and pay £65 stake, Confirm by noon, December 14th and pay £135, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 17th. Penalties, after December 6th, 2020, a winner of a steeple chase 5lb (No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 11st 12lb). A memento will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £200 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. ASCOT RACECOURSE will pay a £10,000 Bonus to the owner of the winner if the horse was placed in the first four places in The Guinness Kerry National Handicap Steeplechase in 2020. The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including Sunday, December 6th may be taken into account. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 31 entries, 16 at £65, 15 at £200. - Closed December 1st, 2020. Owners Prize Money. Winner £26148; Second £10734; Third £5370; Fourth £2682; Fifth £1344; Sixth £672. (Penalty Value £34170) Weights raised 3lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 40 FOR THIS RACE. Sixth Race 3.35 - THE BETFAIR EXCHANGE TROPHY (A HANDICAP HURDLE RACE) (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £56950 to the winning horse The second to receive £21370, the third £10700, the fourth £5330, the fifth £2680 and the sixth £1340. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, December 1st and pay £120 stake, Confirm by noon, December 14th and pay £280, Declare by 10.00 a.m.

December 17th. Penalties, after December 6th, 2020, a winner of a hurdle race 4lb (No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 11st 12lb). Betfair has generously sponsored this race and a memento will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £200 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BETFAIR. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 48 HOUR DECLARATIONS APPLY FOR THIS RACE. The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including Sunday, December 6th may be taken into account. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Hurdle Races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 44 entries, 22 at £120, 22 at £400. - Closed December 1st, 2020. Owners Prize Money. Winner £43580; Second £17890; Third £8950; Fourth £4470; Fifth £2240; Sixth £1120. (Penalty Value £56950) Weights raised 4lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 46 FOR THIS RACE.

R AC E C O N D I T I O N S 5 3

THE ASCOT ENQUIRY Choc Thornton Robert ‘Choc’ Thornton was always a well-regarded member of the weighing room, the multiple Grade 1-winning jockey notching up 1,129 winners including 16 Cheltenham Festival victories during a highly successful career in the saddle. His longstanding partnership with leading dual-licence trainer Alan King saw the pair enjoy many visits to Ascot’s winners’ enclosure.

The record books state that the 2005 winner of Ascot’s annual Christmas highlight, the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle, was Choc’s regular mount and crowd favourite My Way De Solzen. However, in a year that saw all of Ascot’s fixtures re-routed owing to the redevelopment of the course, the race was actually rearranged on two occasions; firstly to Windsor before waterlogging at that course led to it eventually being run at Chepstow.

Here we catch up with Choc as the former jockey shares his most memorable Ascot moments, his favourite Ascot ride and, given the chance, who he would like to be riding in this afternoon’s feature race, the Grade 1 Porsche Long Walk Hurdle.

Your favourite Ascot memory from your time as a jockey?

Invictus winning the Grade 2 Sodexo Prestige Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase - he beat Bobs Worth (the 2013 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner) well and it was one of my better rides.

Which was your favourite horse to ride at Ascot and why?

Voy Por Ustedes, he won the Grade 1 round there in February (the 2009 Betfair Ascot Chase) and was a steering job. Any horse over Ascot’s fences as they are a joy to ride over, well-presented and it’s a track where you have to use your head and ride a race.

Tell us a little known fact about yourself ?

I like chocolate  Which National Hunt horse currently in training would you like to ride in this year’s Long Walk Hurdle and why?

Main Fact. He looks like an improving horse who may not be fully exposed. Steps up in class but deserves it and has been backed in recent days.

The best piece of advice you were ever given as a jockey?

“Ride for as long as you can as when you give up you have to work.” A. Webb What do you miss most about your time in the saddle?

Big days’ racing, festivals at Cheltenham and Aintree.

You jump the last hurdle in the Long Walk riding My Way De Solzen upsides Baracouda, under Thierry Doumen, and Big Buck’s, ridden by Ruby Walsh. Who wins?

In my heart I do of course; in my head Big Buck’s 1st, Baracouda 2nd and My Way a good 3rd.

You are throwing a fantasy dinner party, which four racing guests would you invite?

Jimmy Derham, Alan King, my present boss Paul Dunkley and Gordon Clarkson.

Can I have five? If so, Richard Phillips.

Hurdles or chase fences?

Fences All I want for Christmas is…

The end of this pandemic.

5 4 T H E A SCOT E N Q U I RY

A festive selection from the Ascot Wine Club

T H E 12 W I N E S O F C HRISTM A S Whether decorating the tree together or watching a favourite festive film, there’s a wine for every occasion! Explore the knowledgeable recommendations from Hallgarten & Novum Wines and Moët & Chandon, Ascot’s Official Suppliers, at

ascot.co.uk/12-wines-of-christmas

THE WORLDS END ( front cover)

Winner of the 2019 Marsh Hurdle (The Long Walk Hurdle) Jockey: A P Heskin Trainer: Tom George Owner: McNeill Family Breeder: J Sheehan

Ascot Racecourse Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7JX +44 (0)344 346 3000 ascot.co.uk @Ascot