Ascot racecard - Matchbook Clarence House Chase Raceday 2021

M AT C H B O O K C L A R E N C E H O U S E C H A S E R A C E D AY Saturday 23rd January 2021

CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME Welcome to the Matchbook Clarence House Chase Raceday and the start of a new year of racing here at Ascot.

Our thanks go to Matchbook for their continued backing of the first Grade 1 race of the year here, the Matchbook Betting Exchange Clarence House Chase. A top-class field has been assembled, headed by reigning Champion Chaser, Politologue, and last year’s winner of today’s race, Defi Du Seuil.

Matchbook sponsor a further four races on the card, including the Grade 2 Matchbook Betting Podcast Mares’ Hurdle Race, registered as the Warfield, where Magic Of Light is bidding for a third straight win in the contest. We also welcome and thank bet365, who sponsor two races.

Whilst it remains unfortunate that we are unable to open our doors to owners and racegoers at this time, we are hopeful that things will improve soon.

In the meantime, I hope that you are enjoying the ITV and Sky Sports Racing coverage.

As we begin the new year, we have added some features to our racecards, which I hope you will find interesting and enjoyable.

Starting this month, working with the Racehorse Owners Association, we will carry an interview with a leading, prominent or indeed new owner. Today’s interview features Ian Robinson who, through the “Our Friends In The North” syndicate, won the 2010 Cheltenham Gold Cup with Imperial Commander. Last November at Ascot, he was represented by Imperial Aura, who won the 1965 Chase, making him a leading candidate for the Ryanair at the Festival.

We also put questions to former jockey Dominic Elsworth in our “Ascot Enquiry” column, including about his 2012 win in the Clarence House Chase on Somersby.

Working with Retraining of Racehorses, we plan to feature familiar old names and look at how they are getting on in their new lives. Today’s subject is 2014 Clarence House Chase winner, Sire De Grugy.

Finally, we will devote space in every racecard to a beneficiary of our charitable activities through “Ascot Racecourse Supports”, beginning today looking at the good work that the local Me2 Club does, working with children and young people with additional needs and disabilities.

Earlier this week, we announced the exciting news that seven races will be run each day at Royal Ascot beginning this year, following the successful trial of additional races in 2020.

We also have a new race, the Kensington Palace Handicap, a mile race for older fillies and mares.

We are delighted with the response from the industry to these initiatives and very much hope there will be a good number of people on course to enjoy the new look meeting.

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

WELCOME

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CONTENTS 03

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WELCOME

HOW TO READ THE RACING PAGES

A S H O RT H I S TO R Y

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TO DAY ’ S SPONSORS

TODAY’S OFFICIALS & R AC E C O N D I T I O N S

T H E A S C OT E N Q U I RY

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

PAGES 12-14

1st Race 12.40pm The bet365 Juvenile Hurdle Race (Novices’ Championship Hurdle Series Qualifier) (GBB Race)

Juvenile races are designed solely for four-year-olds in order to allow the younger horses to gain valuable experience by racing against each other before taking on their older, more battle-hardened rivals. Initially every runner in this two-mile hurdle is allotted 10st 12lb (fillies 10st 5lb), before previous winners are given a penalty dependant on the class of race which they have won.

PAGES 18-19

2nd Race 1.15pm The Matchbook Betting Podcast Mares’ Hurdle Race (Grade 2) (Registered as the Warfield) (GBB Race)

Grade 2 races are high-class contests and only bettered by a Grade 1, so expect to see some top-notch horses lining up, and possibly some Cheltenham Festival contenders. Initially the weights in this two mile about seven and a half furlong hurdle for fillies and mares aged four and upwards are allocated on the basis of age, before penalties are awarded to horses which have won above a certain level prior to taking part here. These range from 4lb for a Listed or Grade 3 victory to 6lb for a Grade 1 or Grade 2 success.

PAGES 24-26

3rd Race 1.50pm The Matchbook Better Way To Bet Holloway’s Handicap Hurdle Race (Grade 3) (GBB Race)

This is a two mile about three and a half furlong Grade 3 handicap hurdle race 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 32-34

4th Race 2.25pm The Matchbook Best Odds Handicap Steeple Chase

This handicap steeple chase for five-year-olds and upwards which have been rated from 0 to 135 is run over three miles. 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.

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CONTENTS

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.

PAGES 40-43

5th Race 3.00pm The bet365 Handicap Steeple Chase (GBB Race)

This handicap steeple chase for five-year-olds and upwards is run over two miles about five furlongs.

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.

PAGES 48-50

6th Race 3.35pm The Matchbook Betting Exchange Clarence House Steeple Chase (Grade 1) (GBB Race)

The feature race this afternoon is a Grade 1 steeple chase for five-year-olds and upwards to be run over two miles about one 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 so the weights are allocated on the basis of age and sex.

PAGES 54-55

7th Race 4.10pm The Matchbook Betting Exchange British EBF ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle Race (Qualifier) (GBB Race)

As the title suggests, 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. This race differs slightly from a standard novice event in that it is restricted to horses that have been specifically bred for National Hunt racing - horses that have previously run on the Flat are barred from taking part. This two mile about five and a half furlong hurdle race is for horses aged four, five, six and seven, which are E.B.F. eligible and have not won more than two hurdle races.

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 Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 7 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 over Christmas; beat Diego Du Charmil by 19l in latter and ought to extend his winning run.

Official BHA Rating 175

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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

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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 this 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

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ASCOT JUMPS SEASON 2020/21 LEADING PARTICIPANTS Updated throughout the season, the below tables highlight the leading jockeys, trainers and owners at Ascot in the current season.

JOCKEYS

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8

NICO DE BOINVILLE RICHIE MCLERNON JAMES BOWEN BRIDGET ANDREWS AIDAN COLEMAN JONJO O’NEILL JNR CHARLIE DEUTSCH HARRY SKELTON DAVID BASS HARRY COBDEN 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 L E A D I N G PA R T I C I PA N T S

5 15 WINS: 2 RIDES: 5 WINS: 2 RIDES: 5 WINS: 2 RIDES: 6 WINS: 2 RIDES: 6 WINS: 2 RIDES: 7 WINS: 2 RIDES: 8 WINS: 2 RIDES: 8 WINS: 2 RIDES: 10 WINS: 2 RIDES: 16 WINS: RIDES:

STRIKE-RATE:

33%

STRIKE-RATE:

40%

STRIKE-RATE:

40%

STRIKE-RATE:

33%

STRIKE-RATE:

33%

STRIKE-RATE:

29%

STRIKE-RATE:

25%

STRIKE-RATE:

25%

STRIKE-RATE:

20%

STRIKE-RATE:

13%

TRAINERS

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

NICKY WINS: 5 HENDERSON RUNNERS: 23 DAN WINS: 4 RUNNERS: 17 SKELTON ANTHONY WINS: 3 HONEYBALL RUNNERS: 6 EMMA WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 5 LAVELLE JONJO WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 7 O’NEILL KIM WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 8 BAILEY VENETIA WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 8 WILLIAMS PAUL WINS: 2 NICHOLLS RUNNERS: 24

STRIKE-RATE:

22%

STRIKE-RATE:

24%

STRIKE-RATE:

50%

STRIKE-RATE:

40%

STRIKE-RATE:

39%

STRIKE-RATE:

25%

STRIKE-RATE:

25%

STRIKE-RATE:

8%

OWNERS

1

JOHN P MCMANUS

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PHIL MUNNELLY

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GC STEVENS IMPERIAL RACING PARTNERSHIP 2016 THE ALBATROSS CLUB

4 5

WINS: 3 RUNNERS: 13 WINS: 1 RUNNERS: 1 WINS: 1 RUNNERS: 1 WINS: 1 RUNNERS: 1 WINS: 1 RUNNERS: 1

STRIKE-RATE:

23%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

2 0 2 0 / 2 1 L E A D I N G PA R T I C I PA N T S

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EXQUISITE

15–19 JUNE 2021

ROYAL ASCOT PRESENTS A RANGE OF BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANTS AND STUNNING FINE DINING EXPERIENCES. TICKET-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES FROM £305+VAT. MICHELIN-STARRED MENUS FROM £633+VAT. REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT ASCOT.CO.UK

PRICE PROMISE WE WILL BE BEST PRICE ON EVERY HORSE RUNNING LIVE ON ITV RACING We will match or better the prices of the following Bookmakers: Ladbrokes, William Hill, Paddy Power, Coral, Sky Bet and Boylesports.

Offer applies from 10am up to 15 minutes before the scheduled ‘off’ time for each ITV race.§

UP TO £100 IN BET CREDITS FOR NEW CUSTOMERS Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. T&Cs, time limits & exclusions apply *

Enjoy gambling responsibly. BeGambleAware.org 18+ 24/7 Free National Helpline 0808 8020 133 Need Help? Call the National Helpline free on 0808 802 0133. View conditions of all our offers at www.bet365.com. *New customers only. Deposit £5 or more and claim within 30 days of registering to receive a 100% matched amount in Bet Credits up to £100. Payment method restrictions apply. Bet Credits are released after 1x settled bet requirement met (must settle within 30 days of claiming) and are non-withdrawable. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Selections settled at odds of less than 1/5 and Cashed Out bets don’t count towards release of Bet Credits. Other conditions, time limits & exclusions apply. §Offer applies to bets placed on Win and Each-Way Fixed Odds markets only, excluding Each Way Extra where place terms are selected which vary from our standard or enhanced place terms for that race. All other markets, including Enhanced Price Win Only or Enhanced place terms markets that are priced separately to the Fixed Odds market and Tote/Pari-Mutuel/Colossus (bets and dividends) are excluded from this offer. Races covered by Price Promise are also available for Best Odds Guaranteed, for new and eligible customers.

R AC E 1 12 .40PM T H E b e t 3 6 5 J U V E N I L E H U R D L E R AC E ( C L A S S 3 ) ( N OV I C E S ’ C H A M P I O N S H I P H U R D L E RACE START

RACE FINISH

S E R I E S Q U A L I F I E R ) ( G B B R AC E ) About two miles (1m 7f 152yds) (3,100 metres) For juvenile four yrs old

Total race value £10900. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4705; Second £1559; Third £780; Fourth £390; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280; Eighth £280. (Penalty Value £6173.10) See page 56 for conditions of this race.

bet365 will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and stable employee and £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

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B L U E S L AT E ( I R E ) ( 4 2 )

Gr g Alhebayeb (IRE) - Hallbeck (Halling (USA)) Owner: Mr F. J. Brennan Trainer: Barry Brennan, Lambourn Breeder: A. & L. Cash

Jockey David Bass

Horse Age: 4 Weight: 11 4 Colours: RED, GREY and RED chevrons on sleeves.

Form: 410 D

H Carries a penalty for shock Leicester win in November (soft) but tailed off either side of that, in selling company and a good race at Cheltenham; looks to be up against it here based on the previous Flat ratings.

Official BHA Rating 110

2

CASA LO U P I (G B ) (1 9)

Ch g Casamento (IRE) - Kameruka (Auction House (USA)) Owner: Mrs Giles Pritchard-Gordon Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Colours: CERISE, WHITE hoops, Breeder: Giles W. Pritchard-Gordon (Farming) Ltd BLUE and WHITE check cap.

Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd Form:

Jamie Moore

HHH Mostly consistent in his ten Flat runs for this stable, winning his penultimate start at Kempton (1m4f AW handicap) and very nearly following up at Lingfield; form is inferior to some of these and the cheekpieces sported of late are left off for this hurdling debut, but he handles testing ground and yard won this last year with Goshen.

Official BHA Rating -

3

HOOROO (IRE) (95)

B g Hallowed Crown (AUS) - Hflah (IRE) (Dubawi (IRE)) Owner: Ladies In Racing Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Olly Murphy, Wilmcote Colours: BLACK, PINK spots, Breeder: Old Carhue Stud PINK sleeves, BLACK spots and cap.

Sponsor: McCoy Contractors Form:

Sean Bowen

H Only 1-14 on the Flat, his success coming in a heavy-ground nursery over 1m; went 0-7 last year (in cheekpieces throughout); could find this tough on his hurdling introduction.

Official BHA Rating -

4 P U N C T U AT I O N ( G B ) ( 1 0 6 ) B g Dansili - Key Point (IRE) (Galileo (IRE)) Owner: Mr Grant Leon Trainer: Charlie Longsdon, Chipping Norton Breeder: The Queen Sponsor: Tote

Brian Hughes

Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Colours: LIGHT BLUE, RED cap, LIGHT BLUE diamond.

Form:

HHHH An imposing individual who stayed well on the Flat for Andrew Balding, winning his maiden over 1m4f (AW) and later placed in above-average 1m6f handicaps on soft and fast ground; was bought for 110,000gns to go jumping (gelded since) and he could be staying on when others have cried enough.

Official BHA Rating -

5

SALAMANCA SCHOOL (FR) (146)

B g Rock of Gibraltar (IRE) - Princess Sofia (UAE) (Pennekamp (USA)) Owner: As Sutch Partnership Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn Colours: PURPLE and GREY diamonds, YELLOW Breeder: Mr Jean-Francois Gribomont and ORANGE striped sleeves, ORANGE cap.

Sponsor: 1Account Ltd Form:

HH Enjoyed significant give underfoot during Flat career for Mark Johnston, though failed to progress from his 1m maiden win when sent over middle distances and was well beaten in a seller the final time; later sold for £12,500 and had wind surgery; wouldn’t be the obvious answer on hurdling debut.

Official BHA Rating -

12

R A C I N G PA G E S

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

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S T E P N E Y C A U S E WAY ( G B ) ( 1 9 0 )

B g New Approach (IRE) - Wake Up Call (Noverre (USA)) Owner: W. J. and T. C. O. Gredley Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: YELLOW, BLACK and Breeder: Laundry Cottage Stud Farm YELLOW striped sleeves, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Unex Group Form:

1 Harry Skelton

HHHH Had four starts in these colours on the Flat for Michael Bell, winning a 1m novice on the AW and performing to a good level when pushing a progressive handicapper close in a 7f handicap at Leicester the final time in July, since when he’s undergone wind surgery; tongue-tie also a first, as is soft ground, but there’s some stamina on the dam’s side of his pedigree and the Skelton factor heightens interest.

Official BHA Rating -

7

TENFOLD (IRE) (45)

B g Born To Sea (IRE) - Dear Dream (IRE) (Montjeu (IRE)) Owner: Mr G. A. Jackman Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE circle Breeder: Mohammed Hamad Khalifa Al-Attiyah on body, YELLOW sleeves.

Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd Form:

Joshua Moore

HH Some promising runs for Martyn Meade but not his last two for that yard before a £21,000 sale; only fifth of nine in a 1m2f AW novice on his debut for Gary Moore and there are doubts about him on soft ground; others preferred, including his stablemate Casa Loupi.

Official BHA Rating -

8

T R I TO N I C (G B ) (1 0 6)

Ch g Sea The Moon (GER) - Selenography (Selkirk (USA)) Owner: McNeill Family & Mr Ian Dale Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE hoops, Breeder: Miss K. Rausing MAROON sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions Form:

A. P. Heskin

HHHHH The best of these on the Flat and, although both his wins were on good ground, conditions were soft when runner-up in a 1m2f handicap at Royal Ascot and fourth of 17 at Newmarket on final appearance; gelded ahead of his hurdling debut and no doubting his potential to go a long way in this discipline.

Official BHA Rating -

9

V U LCA N ( I R E ) (1 01)

B g Free Eagle (IRE) - Quixotic (Pivotal) Owner: The Imperium Syndicate Trainer: Dr Richard Newland, Droitwich Breeder: Kilcarn Stud

Richard Johnson

Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 12 Colours: WHITE, ROYAL BLUE stars, RED sleeves and cap.

Form:

HHHH Progressed nicely on the Flat for Harry Dunlop, winning two of his final three starts for that yard over 1m/1m2f at Haydock in the autumn; didn’t come cheap at the sales (170,000gns) and he’s an interesting addition to his much respected new yard.

Official BHA Rating -

10 SARCEAUX (FR) (27)

Gr f Rajsaman (FR) - Sainte Adresse (Elusive City (USA)) Owner: Mr S Bean Horse Age: 4 Weight: 10 5 Trainer: Alexandra Dunn, Wellington Colours: RED and WHITE diamonds, Breeder: S.A. Franklin Finance striped sleeves, RED cap, WHITE diamond.

Form: 5

Charlie Deutsch

H Had three Flat runs in France, winning the middle one over 1m4f on good ground; went off huge odds for British/hurdling debut at Kempton and ran accordingly, weakening as things got interesting; the only filly in this field and opposable here.

Official BHA Rating Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 6. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 1.

Running for the first time since Gelding No. 4, 8. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 5, 6.

2020: GOSHEN (FR) 4 11 8 Jamie Moore 1-5 (Gary Moore) 5 ran

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1 RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

6-4 Tritonic (GB), 7-2 Stepney Causeway (GB), 4-1 Punctuation (GB), Vulcan (IRE), 14-1 Casa Loupi (GB), 20-1 Salamanca School (FR), 25-1 Tenfold (IRE), 50-1 Hooroo (IRE), 100-1 Blue Slate (IRE), Sarceaux (FR)

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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R A C I N G PA G E S

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

RACES 1 & 5

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RACE 7

The European Breeders’ Fund was established in 1983 and is funded predominantly by stallion owners. In Great Britain, over £38,000,000 has now been allocated to prize money in the racing industry by the EBF. ebfstallions.com

A S C OT S P O N S O R S

15

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 C O 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

Record collection

R AC E 2 1 .1 5 P M T H E M AT C H B O O K B E T T I N G P O D C A S T M A R E S ’ H U R D L E R AC E ( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 2 ) ( R E G I S T E R E D A S T H E WA R F I E L D ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about seven and a half furlongs (2m 7f 118yds) (4,700 metres) For four yrs old and upwards fillies and mares Total race value £35000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £15253; Second £6262; Third £3133; Fourth £1565; Fifth £784. (Penalty Value £19932.50) A See page 56 for conditions of this race.

Matchbook 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

M AG I C O F L I G H T ( I R E ) ( 3 8 )

B m Flemensfirth (USA) - Quest of Passion (FR) (Saumarez) Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Mrs J. Harrington, Ireland Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Baronrath & Colbinstown Studs YELLOW chevron and sleeves, RED cap.

Sponsor: Green Mining (Sizing) Form: 3110-41 CD

Jockey Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHH All roads lead to another crack at the Grand National (runner-up in 2019) but is bidding for a third straight success in this race and, as in previous seasons, she arrives on the back of comfortably winning a Listed chase at Newbury; commands utmost respect, for all that this is stronger than the past two renewals.

Official BHA Rating 149

2

ROKSANA (IRE) (35)

B m Dubai Destination (USA) - Talktothetail (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Mrs Sarah Faulks Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 6 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: 2524-13 D

Harry Skelton

HHHHH High-class mare with Cheltenham Festival honours and has returned this season better than ever over 3m, impressing in a Grade 2 at Wetherby (soft) before finishing a clear third behind top stayers Paisley Park and Thyme Hill in the Grade 1 Long Walk here just before Christmas (heavy); standout claims at this level on the back of that performance.

Official BHA Rating 153

3

C O D E D M E S S AG E ( G B ) ( 2 7 )

B m Oscar (IRE) - Ring Back (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Wardington Hopefuls Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Ben Case, Banbury Colours: YELLOW, RED Cross of Lorraine, Breeder: David Allen hooped sleeves, RED cap, YELLOW star.

Sponsor: David Andrews Construction Limited Form: 3P-0UP3

Kielan Woods

H She was in-form and progressive when a well-held fourth behind Magic Of Light in this race 12 months ago; has not found further improvement and after struggling over fences earlier this season she was beaten about 9l back over hurdles in a 3m Kempton handicap last month.

Official BHA Rating 131

4 EGLANTINE DU SEUIL (FR) (42)

B m Saddler Maker (IRE) - Rixia du Seuil (FR) (Ultimately Lucky (IRE)) Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: RED, PINK hoop Breeder: Mrs Catherine Boudot and armlets.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 540-502

Harry Cobden

HHH None too consistent since winning at the 2019 Cheltenham Festival in these colours for Willie Mullins but steadied the ship when runner-up in a 2m4f soft-ground handicap back at Cheltenham last month, which was her best run yet for Paul Nicholls; if seeing out this longer distance she wouldn’t be without hope in receipt of 6lb from her market rivals. Official BHA Rating 146

5

MIDNIGHT TUNE (GB) (2)

B m Midnight Legend - Harmonic Motion (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: The Park Homes Syndicate Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Colours: PURPLE, RED stars, Breeder: Mr Paul Brewer RED sleeves, PURPLE stars, RED cap.

Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk Form: 1P1P-P6 D

H Talented hurdler/chaser on her day but hard to predict as recent form figures would imply and she was a well-beaten sixth in a handicap chase at Wincanton on Thursday; even if at her best, these terms are tough.

Official BHA Rating 133

18

R A C I N G PA G E S

Sean Bowen

2 Tongue Strap worn by No. 4, 5. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 1, 3, 5.

2020: MAGIC OF LIGHT (IRE) 9 11 6 Robbie Power 5-2 (Mrs J Harrington) 6 ran

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

ST ND

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RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

4-6 Roksana (IRE), 5-2 Magic of Light (IRE), 4-1 Eglantine du Seuil (FR), 25-1 Coded Message (GB), 33-1 Midnight Tune (GB)

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.

R A C I N G PA G E S

19

ASCOT RACECOURSE SUPPORTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT For this inaugural feature, we felt it timely to feature Me2 Club – one of the first beneficiaries of the Ascot Supports Community Fund held with the Berkshire Community Foundation.

In 2017, a grant was provided for the charity to train and support 10 volunteers from their Wokingham base. We are delighted to report that following 17 years of hard work, their reach has now been expanded to cover the Reading area.

Me2 Club’s purpose is to address the challenges of isolation and exclusion of children, aged 5 to 19 years, with wide ranging additional needs and disabilities by enabling them to experience, and benefit from, a weekly mainstream leisure activity of their choice; thus promoting their self-confidence and independence.

To achieve this they recruit, train and support enthusiastic volunteer ‘buddies’ who are carefully matched to the child requiring their dedicated help.

2 0 A S C OT R AC E C O U R S E S U P P O RT S

Over the course of the pandemic, Me2 Club has been working hard to move their support online so that children can continue taking part in fun, social activities to help them stay connected with friends and reduce their feelings of isolation and loneliness. They offer a varied programme of activities from arts, crafts and games as well as physical exercise, working in partnership with local sport providers.

For those children who are not able to take part in their online projects, either because of their complex needs or due to the lack of the necessary technology, the charity send craft and sensory activity packs.

One of their parents reflected on the impact of being able to join in with their online activities and said, “The dance classes have increased her activity level. She gets very excited when she has a session. She can now sign in and is very confident, so much so I’m not allowed to be present, as it’s her time! Most importantly it’s been an opportunity to see her friends and the staff. Being an only child at home she’s been lonely and being a sociable young lady, it’s been a lifeline for her.”

Should you wish to learn more about the charity and/or make a donation to help children with disabilities feel less isolated, visit: www.justgiving.com/me2club www.me2club.org.uk Reg. Charity No. 1140812

A S C OT R AC E C O U R S E S U P P O RT S

21

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

R AC E 3 1.50PM T H E M AT C H B O O K B E T T E R WAY T O B E T H O L L OWAY ’ S H A N D I C A P H U R D L E R AC E RACE FINISH

( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 3 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE START

Two miles about three and a half furlongs (2m 3f 58yds) (3,800 metres) For four yrs old and upwards Total race value £35000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £15253; Second £6262; Third £3133; Fourth £1565; Fifth £784; Sixth £392. (Penalty Value £19932.50) See page 57 for conditions of this race.

Matchbook 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

JANIKA (FR) (343)

B g Saddler Maker (IRE) - Majaka (FR) (Kapgarde (FR)) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: EMERALD GREEN, DARK GREEN sleeves, Breeder: Mr Hubert Langot & Mr Michel Langot DARK GREEN and EMERALD GREEN quartered cap.

Sponsor: Ptarmigan Media Limited Form: 4/14442- D

Jockey Daryl Jacob

HHHH Heavy-ground form in France; good win first time out last season but that form was not repeated; had soft palate cauterised in the autumn; seen only once over hurdles during British career (January 2020; below form in Grade 2) but has very good mark if he gets anywhere near his better chase form.

Official BHA Rating 147

2

B O T OX H A S ( F R ) ( 3 5 )

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: 5 Weight: 11 9 Colours: WHITE, DARK GREEN hoops, WHITE sleeves and cap.

Form: 121-140

HH Won 4yo event on return but his fourth on handicap debut at Newbury shows that improvement is needed; 16-1, tailed off in a top 1m7f handicap here (first run on heavy; acts on soft) five weeks ago and now tries a new trip. Official BHA Rating 144

3

L I G H T LY S Q U E E Z E ( G B ) ( 3 5 )

B g Poet’s Voice - Zuleika Dobson (Cadeaux Genereux) Owner: J Davies and Govier and Brown Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 5 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: 111F-03 D

Sean Bowen

HHHH Second leg of his quick hat-trick in the mud last winter was by 7l at 2m3f (Taunton); had wind surgery in October and also tongue tied when back to best for third of 17 in a top 1m7f handicap here (heavy) five weeks ago; back up 3lb but should be just as good over this trip, so one to note.

Official BHA Rating 140

4 K AT E S O N ( G B ) ( 4 9 )

Gr g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Silver Kate (IRE) (Insan (USA)) Owner: DMRichardsRobertsChurchwardW-Williams Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 4 Trainer: Tom Lacey, Woolhope Colours: RED, WHITE hoop, striped sleeves, Breeder: D. M. Richards BLACK and WHITE hooped cap.

Sponsor: Plusbac Form: 2542-01 D

Brian Hughes

HHH Rather mixed results but runner-up in a useful 2m4f handicap on heavy ground last March and scored by a nose in first-time cheekpieces at Aintree (2m4f, soft) seven weeks ago when last seen; back up 5lb but each-way chance.

Official BHA Rating 139

5

N O R DA N O ( G E R ) ( 1 4 )

Ch g Jukebox Jury (IRE) - Navajo Queen (GER) (Monsun (GER)) Owner: A Whyte, T Messom & D Nott Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 3 Trainer: Neil King, Burderop Colours: WHITE, PURPLE spots, Breeder: Gestut Etzean PURPLE sleeves, WHITE spots.

Sponsor: Tote Form: 4321-50 CD

HH Took very well to hurdling last season, notably with a wide-margin win in quite valuable C&D handicap (soft) in February; however, below form when next seen on the Flat in October and out of form in his two runs since over hurdles (2m and 2m7f); best watched for now.

Official BHA Rating 138

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

Jamie Moore

6

3

WA R L O R D ( G E R ) ( 3 5 )

Gr g Jukebox Jury (IRE) - Westalin (GER) (Sternkoenig (IRE)) Owner: The Wychwood Partnership Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 3 Trainer: Colin Tizzard, Sherborne Colours: BLACK, WHITE triple diamond, WHITE and Breeder: Gestut Etzean BLACK striped sleeves, BLACK cap, WHITE diamond.

Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited Form: 410-213 D BF

Richard Johnson

HHH This season’s three very solid performances over about 2m3f on soft or heavy (won at Haydock on second occasion) put him firmly into calculations, but he needs a bit extra to win this.

Official BHA Rating 138

7

ARRIVEDERCI (FR) (35)

Gr g Martaline - Etoile d’Ainay (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Martin Broughton & Friends 1 Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: RED, EMERALD GREEN Breeder: Stephane Milaveau Cross of Lorraine and sleeves.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 021-1F0 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 next time but he was a disappointing joint-favourite for a top 1m7f handicap here (tongue tied first time) on latest outing; a leading player if that last run can be forgiven. Official BHA Rating 137

8

I K BRUNEL (GB) (57)

B g Midnight Legend - Somethinaboutmolly (IRE) (Choisir (AUS)) Owner: McNeill Family and Prodec Networks Ltd Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 1 Trainer: Olly Murphy, Wilmcote Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE hoops, Breeder: Miss Z. A. E. Phillips MAROON sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions Form: 041-230 D

A. P. Heskin

HHH Not disgraced in two small-field novice chases to start this season but he never got competitive in 3m handicap back over hurdles on latest outing; good ground was probably against him in the latter, so he’s not dismissed given today’s much more testing conditions underfoot.

Official BHA Rating 136

9

D A N N Y K I R WA N ( I R E ) ( 4 2 )

B g Scorpion (IRE) - Sainte Baronne (FR) (Saint des Saints (FR)) Owner: Mrs Johnny de la Hey Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoops, Breeder: Barmakin Ltd & South Lodge Stud armlets and cap.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 22/6-316 CD

Harry Cobden

HHH Lightly raced 8yo, below-par last February in his only start under Rules on heavy; made all in C&D maiden (soft) in November before 3m presumably played a major part in his heavy defeat in a Grade 2 novice at Cheltenham; while this trip should help, he needs improvement on this handicap debut.

Official BHA Rating 133

1 0 DA N S L E V E N T ( F R ) ( 4 2 )

B g Skins Game - Boreade (FR) (Lost World (IRE)) Owner: R J Gambarini Racing Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan Breeder: C. Laval, J. Laval & A. Larrieu Sponsor: Office Visions (Wales) Ltd

Isabel Williams (5)

Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 11 Colours: PINK, PURPLE epaulets, striped sleeves, PURPLE and PINK hooped cap.

Form: 230/U2-1 D

HHH Raced only twice for new stable last season; off 13 months but well-handicapped on older hurdles form when he scored gamely under Isabel Williams in seven-runner race at Hereford (2m3f, soft) six weeks ago, the front two 13l clear; back up 4lb and into a much stronger race but one to consider.

Official BHA Rating 132

1 1 PA D DY S M O T O R B I K E ( I R E ) ( 3 2 )

Ch g Fast Company (IRE) - Saffa Garden (IRE) (King’s Best (USA)) Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd Egan Waste Ltd Horse Age: 9 Weight: 10 10 Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff Colours: DARK BLUE and WHITE diabolo, Breeder: Peter and Jackie Grimes hooped sleeves and cap.

Form: 23/2//-311

Jordan Nailor (5)

HHHHH 9yo who’s been seen mostly on Flat; long layoff before return to hurdling this season for new trainer, on last two starts winning under Jordan Nailor over about this trip in a maiden at Uttoxeter (made all) and soft-ground novice at Huntingdon (always prominent); back into a handicap off what looks a competitive mark.

Official BHA Rating 131

12 CRAIGNEICHE (IRE) (375)

Br g Flemensfirth (USA) - Itsalark (IRE) (Definite Article) Owner: Mr Robert Kirkland Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 6 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: RED, BLACK armlets.

Breeder: Frank Motherway & Kevin Curtin Form: 131Sponsor: Unibet

Tom Cannon

HHH Won his only bumper and staying-on third at Newbury (2m4f, soft) in December last term on hurdles debut; seemed to be fighting a losing battle at 4-11 for most of the straight in Doncaster maiden (2m5f, soft) last January but emerged a clearcut winner; clear inexperience, with potential too but perhaps more for longer trips.

Official BHA Rating 127

R A C I N G PA G E S

25

3 Tongue Strap worn by No. 3, 4, 7, 11. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 4, 5.

Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 1.

Stewards Note: ARRIVEDERCI: Following its run on 19/12/2020 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

2020: THOMAS DARBY (IRE) 7 11 12 Richard Johnson 8-1 (Olly Murphy) 8 ran

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

ST ND

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RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

5-1 Danny Kirwan (IRE), 11-2 Lightly Squeeze (GB), 7-1 Janika (FR), Craigneiche (IRE), 8-1 Kateson (GB), Arrivederci (FR), Paddys Motorbike (IRE), 9-1 Dans Le Vent (FR), 10-1 War Lord (GER), 16-1 I K Brunel (GB), 20-1 Botox Has (FR), 25-1 Nordano (GER)

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.

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

OFFICIAL PARTNERS AND SUPPLIERS Ascot is proud to present our Official Partners and Suppliers for 2021

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OFFICIAL BEER O F F I C I A L PA R T N E R S A N D S U P P L I E R S 2 7

OWNERS FOCUS

IAN ROBINSON (BOTTOM-RIGHT OF PICTURE) LEADING IN IMPERIAL COMMANDER AFTER HIS 2010 CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP SUCCESS.

www.roa.co.uk Many owners are usually better recognised in the racing industry through their racing colours and their horses’ names, rather than being a familiar face.

Over the coming months, with the support of the ROA, Ascot will be getting to know some of the names behind their racing colours.

Ian Robinson shared his father’s passion for racing from a young age, and soon decided that when he had some ‘cash to spare’, he would dip his toe into racehorse ownership.

Living near the picturesque Carlisle Racecourse, Ian’s eye was often caught by the frequent journeys made to the Cumbrian track by Nigel Twiston-Davies, sowing the seed for an owner-trainer partnership that has lasted over 20 years.

Over time, Ian, along with his friend Paul Costello, grew a small syndicate initially called ‘Our Friends in the North’, but that name was to change when the syndicate won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2010 and they became Imperial Racing.

Despite having recently tasted Ascot success when the Kim Bailey-trained Imperial Aura romped to victory in the Chanelle Pharma 1965 Chase, it was a far lesser achievement that Ian would class as his favourite Ascot memory.

“We had a horse called Bobby Dazzler, who was the apple of my eye. Trained by Nigel, he had made his first appearance at Aintree, where he had disappointed, so appeared at Ascot on January 10th 2004 as a 50/1 outsider and ran a brilliant race to come 5th. We were so delighted with the improvement that we emptied the Champagne Bar at Ascot.”

“Imperial Aura’s November success was slightly unexpected; he still had things to prove. Sadly, due to Covid, we were unable to be there and at that stage we hadn’t set up the ability for us all to watch it together on Zoom.”

28 OWNERS FOCUS

With nearly 130 friends, and friends of friends now in the group, Ian has an honest and refreshing outlook on the sport.

“National Hunt involves some of the nicest people you would ever hope to meet, it’s the last bastion of true sport. Everyone wants every horse and every jockey to come back safely, their welfare is far more important than the result.”

Ian’s passion for horses is evident and this is something he wants to share with all the group members. “I want our members to be able to visit the horses whilst in training, to see the professional jockeys and trainers at work and get close to the horses they invest in.”

With a wry smile Ian says that many members join the group with a share in one of the 22 horses currently in training, but most find it addictive and buy into more horses. “Social media has been a godsend over the past year to keep all members in the loop. We have WhatsApp groups for all horses and everyone follows every horse and are involved in their journey. If one group of owners win with their horse, then everyone else joins in the celebrations.”

Ian relies on Kevin Ross for his bloodstock purchasing expertise and views Kevin to have “the best eye for a horse in the business.” Kevin and his wife Anna are a big part of the Imperial team; they do all the pre-training, the store horses are kept in Ireland and every horse returns to Kevin’s Irish base for its break.

Each year, Ian and Paul organise for all the group members to go to Ireland at the start of the season to see the horses start their preparations for the season ahead and see behind the scenes, something Ian feels is very important for the members to see. “It is important that the owners get close to the horse, the horse becomes part of their family.”

IMPERIAL AURA ON HIS WAY TO WINNING THE 1965 CHASE IN NOVEMBER LAST YEAR

OWNERS FOCUS 29

R AC E 4 2.25PM T H E M AT C H B O O K B E S T O D D S HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE RACE START

RACE FINISH

(CLASS 3) About three miles (2m 7f 180yds) (4,700 metres) For five yrs old and upwards

Total race value £13150. Owners Prize Money. Winner £5820; Second £1928; Third £965; Fourth £482; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280; Eighth £280. (Penalty Value £7635.14) See page 57 for conditions of this race.

Matchbook 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

FA U B U R G R O S E T G R I ( F R ) ( 3 5 )

B g Sageburg (IRE) - Fausse Annonce (FR) (Sheikh Albadou) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 9 Weight: 12 0 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: 15PP-P6

Jockey Daryl Jacob

H Useful chaser in France, winning five times at up to 2m6f, most recently in November 2019; however, he pulled up in last two starts there and hasn’t flourished in two runs for this yard, pulled up over hurdles and soundly beaten over C&D last month; has much to prove.

Official BHA Rating 137

2

CO B O LO B O ( F R ) ( 37)

Br g Maresca Sorrento (FR) - Nanou des Brosses (FR) (Saint Cyrien (FR)) Owner: Anne, Harriet & Lucinda Bond Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 13 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: PURPLE, PINK seams, armlets Breeder: Mr Michel Lecoq and cap.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: P15P-21 D

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHH Has two ways of running but in good form of late, running well back from a layoff at Exeter and then making all to win emphatically over 3m there last month (heavy; cheekpieces added; the third Crossley Tender a clear winner since); up 8lb but he has always been talented and perhaps front-running is the key to him.

Official BHA Rating 136

3

NON RUNNER

THE KINGS WRIT (IRE) (2)

B g Brian Boru - Letterwoman (IRE) (Fourstars Allstar (USA)) Owner: Mr D Stevens & Mrs S Stevens Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Kayley Woollacott, Crewkerne Colours: LIGHT BLUE, DARK BLUE stars and Breeder: Patrick Mulcahy sleeves, DARK BLUE cap, LIGHT BLUE stars.

Sponsor: NAF Form: 220-302 D

-RU NON

NNER

Official BHA Rating 135

4 TOW N S H E N D (G E R ) ( 52 )

B g Lord of England (GER) - Trikolore (GER) (Konigsstuhl (GER)) Owner: Mr J. D. Neild Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: ROYAL BLUE, RED star, Breeder: H.-H.Rodenburg diabolo on sleeves and star on cap.

Sponsor: Agetur (UK) Ltd Form: 1P-0050 CD

Jamie Neild (10)

HH Latest of his five chase wins came over C&D last January (heavy); has been hard to nail down since and although he looked to be coming to the boil again back here in November he showed little promise at Ludlow next time; shaky win claims after that but his course form is a plus.

Official BHA Rating 135

5

YA L LTA R I ( G B ) ( 4 9 )

Gr g Kayf Tara - Lily Grey (FR) (Kadalko (FR)) Owner: Venetia Williams Racehorse Syndicates II Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Breeder: Miss V. M. Williams Sponsor: Faucets Limited

Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 12 Colours: PURPLE, WHITE star and star on cap.

Form: F3/03-P4 D

HH Looked a cracking staying prospect two winters ago, including in a Grade 2 over C&D, but he has found little in just three completions since.

Official BHA Rating 135

3 2 R A C I N G PA G E S

Charlie Deutsch

6

NON RUNNER

S I N G L E FA R M PAY M E N T ( G B ) ( 4 2 )

B g Milan - Crevamoy (IRE) (Shardari) Owner: Mr N T Griffith & H M Haddock Trainer: Henry Oliver, Abberley Breeder: Distillery Stud Sponsor: Hatt Kitchens

NO

7

4

Horse Age: 11

Weight: 11 11

Colours:E DARK BLUE, PINK hoop, PINK R BLUE sleeves, armlets, PINK cap.

N N DARK U R Form: 0/440-45 D N

Official BHA Rating 134

BIGIRONONHISHIP (IRE) (48)

B g Beneficial - Portobello Lady (IRE) (Broken Hearted) Owner: Mr & Mrs Duncan Davidson Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Rose Dobbin, Alnwick Colours: PINK, BLACK diamond and Breeder: Mrs Philomena Crampton armlets, quartered cap.

Sponsor: Hazelrigg Racing Form: F5/11-25 D

Craig Nichol

HH Took a step up when forging away in the Borders National at Kelso in December 2019 (4m, soft); having first run since when an excellent second over 3m at Ayr in November but was below his best when well-held at Kelso last month; a very rare runner for his yard here but has it to prove.

Official BHA Rating 131

8

D E FO R G OT T E N O N E (G B ) ( 2 0)

B g Malinas (GER) - As Was (Epalo (GER)) Owner: Mr D. W. Fox Trainer: Richard Hobson, Little Rissington Breeder: Upton Viva Stud

William Kennedy

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 7 Colours: LIGHT GREEN, YELLOW inverted triangle, YELLOW sleeves, RED diamonds, YELLOW cap, RED diamonds.

Form: P4-3131 D

HHHH Doing well for new yard; often front-runs but was ridden patiently when a creditable third in 3m6f cross-country event in December; wide-margin Catterick winner since (2m3f, heavy), albeit the placed horses were not running over their best trips; now up 10lb in a more competitive race.

Official BHA Rating 130

9

CLASSIC BEN (IRE) (49)

B g Beneficial - Dark Daisy (IRE) (Kotashaan (FR)) Owner: The Lavendon Partnership Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Stuart Edmunds, Newport Pagnell Colours: BLACK, RED sash, Breeder: P. Magee WHITE sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Nick Brown Racing Clubs Form: 4F35-24 D BF

Ciaran Gethings

HHH Best form at about 3m on good/heavy though he stays further; the die was cast some way out when favourite at Sandown last month (3m5f) and although he can’t be dismissed back at 3m others may be that bit better treated.

Official BHA Rating 129

1 0 FAV O R I T O B U C K ’ S ( F R ) ( 6 4 )

B g Buck’s Boum (FR) - Sangrilla (FR) (Sanglamore (USA)) Owner: Mrs Johnny de la Hey Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 5 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoops, Breeder: Mr J. Marquet & Mr E. Rouchvarger armlets and cap.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 6P2/3-P3 CD

Harry Cobden

HHH C&D winner on good who ran another sound race from the front when third here in November (first-time blinkers, retained); however, soft ground seemed to put more of a strain on his finishing there and others could prove better suited by conditions.

Official BHA Rating 128

11 CROSSLEY TENDER (GB) (13)

B g Sulamani (IRE) - Slow Starter (IRE) (Dr Massini (IRE)) Owner: Hawkings Harding Pearson Pyatt Willis Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Paul Henderson, Whitsbury Colours: ORANGE, PURPLE diamond, Breeder: G. Stanners, R. McGee & A. & J. Hamilton diabolo on sleeves and diamond on cap.

Sponsor: Paul Henderson Racing Form: 111231 D

Richard Johnson

HHH Form has gone into orbit compared to his level last winter and his latest Exeter win (3m, soft) was another step forward; however, though he has form on a variety of tracks, his improvement has come at Exeter and even then Cobololo has the edge on two runs; another push needed.

Official BHA Rating 125

12 ENQARDE (FR) (35)

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Usachaqa (FR) (Mister Sacha (FR)) Owner: Off The Clock Partners & Dr RDP Newland Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 1 Trainer: Dr Richard Newland, Droitwich Colours: DARK GREEN, WHITE hoop, Breeder: Mr Charles Hubert De Chaudenay hooped sleeves, check cap.

Sponsor: Carehome Selection Ltd Form: 306-21U

Charlie Hammond (3)

HHHHH Chase winner in France; made bright start for new yard, running well in a handicap hurdle here before a ready winner of 2m6f Newcastle novice (soft); unseated five out in a valuable Haydock chase since but had not done much wrong up to then and was still going well; open to improvement.

Official BHA Rating 124

R A C I N G PA G E S

33

4

13 FLINTHAM (GB) (1064) B g Kayf Tara - Plaid Maid (IRE) (Executive Perk) Owner: The Rasher Partnership Trainer: Mark Bradstock, Wantage Breeder: Lord Oaksey Sponsor: Equimedia Ltd

Sean Bowen

Horse Age: 12 Weight: 10 11 Colours: WHITE, BLACK diamond, PURPLE sleeves and cap.

Form: 42P/252//CD

H Four hurdle wins; maiden chaser but was only just touched off in C&D Grade 2 in 2017; off for three years so has questions to answer, but this excellent small stable has provided some wonderful stories over the years.

Official BHA Rating 120

Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 1, 6. Blinkers worn by No. 10. Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 3, 4.

Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 8. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 9, 13.

2020: TOWNSHEND (GER) 9 11 7 Mr Jamie Neild 20-1 (Nigel Twiston-Davies) 6 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT ST

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RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

6-1 Cobolobo (FR), Favorito Buck’s (FR), 13-2 Crossley Tender (GB), 7-1 De Forgotten One (GB), 9-1 Singlefarmpayment (GB), 10-1 Yalltari (GB), Classic Ben (IRE), 11-1 The Kings Writ (IRE), Townshend (GER), Enqarde (FR), 12-1 Bigirononhiship (IRE), 14-1 Fauburg Rosetgri (FR), 20-1 Flintham (GB)

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

F LY I N G M AC H I N E S B E T FA I R A S C OT C H A S E R AC E DAY S AT U R DAY 2 0 T H F E B R UA RY One of the most important Jumps ďŹ xtures on our calendar, with the spectacular Grade One Betfair Ascot Chase at its centrepiece Visit ascot.co.uk

ASCOT SUPPORTS – WHERE ARE THEY NOW

One of the standout two-mile chasers of the past decade, Sire De Grugy made his mark at Ascot when winning the 2014 running of the Grade 1 Clarence House Chase (pictured above), and he also finished runner-up in the 2016 renewal.

The win confirmed that the chaser, who was rated an exceptional 172 at his peak, had very much taken his place at chasing’s top table, and it was one of four Grade 1 successes in a memorable 2013/14 season.

During a racing career that spanned seven years and notched up 17 wins from 42 starts, Sire De Grugy certainly was the birthday gift that kept on giving.

The friends of his long-time owner, Steve Preston, clubbed together to fund his purchase as a present for Steve’s 50th birthday, but it was his trainer, Gary Moore, who had originally purchased him. Gary saw in the handsome chesnut that he may have a star in his yard, and retained a percentage of the ownership.

Furthermore, as the trainer’s son, Jamie, partnered Sire in all but two of his races, it couldn’t be more fitting that Sire has stayed with the Moore family in his retirement.

When Sire retired fit and healthy in 2017, it was Jamie’s wife Lucie that was to take over the reins. When asked to reflect on his stellar career and plans for his life post-racing, Lucie says “we just wanted him to enjoy his retirement. He had achieved so much in his racing career we didn’t want to pressure him into succeeding in a new career.”

36 WHERE ARE THEY NOW

Sire still resides at the Moore’s training yard and Lucie has to plan her morning rides on Sire with care, as a mistimed ride often means she and Sire find themselves heading up the gallops with the string, but it is Sire’s relationship with Jamie and Lucie’s young children that would surprise many avid race fans.

Whilst Lola, the eldest of the Moore’s children, may only have been aged two at the time of Sire’s Clarence House win, these days she can be found partnering the former stable star in the school and on the gallops. “He just seems to know that they are only little and he is so kind with all the children” shares Lucie.

“When I ride him out he can be spooky and jump around, but with the children he is so calm and patient.”

Sire has one very special equine relationship with Cuddles, the charge of the youngest Moore, Kenny.

It seems like Kenny may be the next Moore to follow his father and uncles along the jockey path, and the four-year-old can be seen on the gallops riding Cuddles, with Sire stuck firmly by his side on babysitting duty.

Sire will hopefully enjoy future trips back to his favourite racetracks to partake in the very popular RoR parades, in which he seems to lap up the attention. “He is so well behaved when he gets to the track, he has done a ridden parade and one in-hand, and he really enjoys them” says Lucie.

Seemingly living the life of luxury in retirement, Sire has enjoyed cross-country schooling outings along with showjumping, and although Lucie says she has no grand plans, she would like to continue to compete with him in the future. For now, he will continue to enjoy his Sunday hacks with Jamie and the children, adventures up the gallops with Cuddles and the occasional session in the school with Lola.

ror.org.uk

WHERE ARE THEY NOW 37

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R AC E 5 3.00PM THE bet365 HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE RACE FINISH

( C L A S S 2 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE START

Two miles about five furlongs (2m 5f 8yds) (4,200 metres) For five yrs old and upwards Total race value £52500. Owners Prize Money. Winner £24938; Second £8332; Third £4169; Fourth £2084; Fifth £1040; Sixth £520.

(Penalty Value £32844) Weights raised 6lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

See page 57 for conditions of this race.

bet365 will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and stable employee and £200 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race.

No Horse

1

BENNYS KING (IRE) (35)

B g Beneficial - Hellofafaithful (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)) Owner: Mezzone Family Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: RED, WHITE sleeves, BLACK stars, Breeder: Mr Shane McGuckin WHITE cap.

Sponsor: CMS Kidderminster Form: 6152-51 C D

Jockey Harry Skelton

HHH Neck second to Domaine De L’Isle in this race 12 months ago; went one better in similar event here (2m3f, heavy; won by 6l) last month, taking record for current stable to 4-8; largely progressive over fences and has solid claims, for all that he’s on a career-high mark.

Official BHA Rating 154

2

CAPELAND (FR) (14)

B g Poliglote - Neiland (FR) (Cyborg (FR)) Owner: Mrs Kathy Stuart Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Alain Couetil Sponsor: Morson Group

Harry Cobden

Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 11 Colours: DARK BLUE, PINK epaulets and star on cap.

Form: 50-U361 C

HHH Landed a similar event here (2m1f, soft) in 2019 and regained the winning thread at Wincanton (2m4f, good to soft) two weeks ago; higher in the weights this time and has something to prove over a testing 2m5f.

Official BHA Rating 153

3

DA S H E L D R A S H E R ( G B ) ( 3 5 )

B g Passing Glance - So Long (Nomadic Way (USA)) Owner: Mrs B Tully and Mr R Lock Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 10 Trainer: Jeremy Scott, Dulverton Colours: PURPLE, YELLOW star, Breeder: Mrs C. C. Scott RED sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Sponsor: Brendon Powerwashers Form: 1/2U1-31 CD

Matt Griffiths

HHHHH Beat a pair of higher-rated rivals in C&D graduation chase on heavy ground five weeks ago, his clear margin of superiority diminishing as he tired late on, having kicked clear before final turn; new mark looks manageable judged on the bare form of that win; now 2-2 at Ascot and open to further progress; respected.

Official BHA Rating 152

4 ESPOIR DE GUYE (FR) (35)

B g Khalkevi (IRE) - Penelope de Guye (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Mrs J. Hitchings Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 7 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: 211P-10 CD BF

Charlie Deutsch

HHH Non-stayer over 3m on heavy ground here five weeks ago; 2-2 at this course otherwise (both Class 2 handicaps), including reappearance success over 2m5f on soft; had wind surgery before that win and now goes in tongue-tie for added help; possibilities back down in trip.

Official BHA Rating 149

5

AC T I N G L A S S ( I R E ) ( 73 )

B g King’s Theatre (IRE) - Darrens Lass (IRE) (Montelimar (USA)) Owner: Nigel & Barbara Collison Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Harry Fry, Seaborough Colours: YELLOW, large BLACK spots, Breeder: R. Murphy YELLOW sleeves, BLACK spots.

Sponsor: Citipost, Citipost Form: P012P-P CD

HH Has two pieces of very useful course form, including a success (off 6lb lower) in this race three years ago; pulled up (with physical issues) on last two appearances, lame then having a breathing problem; revival possible on first run since wind surgery.

Official BHA Rating 149

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

Sean Bowen

6

W I N D S O R AV E N U E ( I R E ) ( 2 8 )

B g Winged Love (IRE) - Zaffarella (IRE) (Zaffaran (USA)) Owner: Phil & Julie Martin Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 5 Trainer: Brian Ellison, Malton Colours: LIGHT GREEN, DARK GREEN chevrons, Breeder: Miss J. A. Buchanan RED sleeves, WHITE and RED striped cap.

Sponsor: Brian Ellison Racing Limited Form: 12F-2P3

5 Brian Hughes

HHHH Market drifter and ran below-par in a major handicap at Cheltenham two starts ago; creditable efforts otherwise this term, runner-up to Imperial Aura at Carlisle (2m4f, heavy) and third in the Rowland Meyrick at Wetherby (3m); this second-season chaser should have a good race in him; shortlisted.

Official BHA Rating 147

7

G O O D B OY B O B BY ( I R E ) ( 4 2 )

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Princess Gaia (IRE) (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: EMERALD GREEN, DARK GREEN sleeves, Breeder: Mrs M. Brophy DARK GREEN and EMERALD GREEN quartered cap.

Sponsor: Ptarmigan Media Limited Form: 125-124

Daryl Jacob

HHHH Second-season chaser who looks interesting on his Haydock effort in which he chased home the smart Master Tommytucker and finished in front of Dashel Drasher; stayed on for never-dangerous fourth in Grade 3 handicap at Cheltenham (2m4f, soft; attracted support) next time; should be much more dangerous if he reverts to racing handily.

Official BHA Rating 144

8

J E R RY S B AC K ( I R E ) ( 3 9 9 )

B g Jeremy (USA) - Get A Few Bob Back (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Michael Rowland YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Form: 1223/03- D

Richard Johnson

HH Absent since finishing third in Listed handicap here (3m, heavy) in December 2019; has each-way hopes if returning in similar form but the market signals may prove best guide to expectations.

Official BHA Rating 142

9

J O N N I E S O FA ( I R E ) ( 4 1 )

B g Well Made (GER) - Lucky Sarah (IRE) (Aahsaylad) Owner: The Late Mr A.Houghton & Partners Horse Age: 11 Weight: 10 13 Trainer: Rose Dobbin, Alnwick Colours: RED, WHITE triple diamond, WHITE Breeder: T. Finn sleeves, RED armlets, RED cap, WHITE diamond.

Sponsor: Hazelrigg Racing Form: 2//1465-1 D

Craig Nichol

HH Veteran who defied top weight in lower grade at Carlisle (2m5f, heavy) last month to make a winning reappearance for the third time in his career; faces a tougher assignment at this level and looks vulnerable.

Official BHA Rating 141

1 0 YO U N G WO L F ( I R E ) ( 2 5 )

B g Vinnie Roe (IRE) - Missy O’Brien (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Mrs Gay Smith Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: WHITE, MAUVE stars.

Breeder: Peter Magnier Form: 1-12126 Sponsor: Wasdell Group, Ashford Stud

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HH Useful novice chaser but has been campaigned mainly on good ground or faster and his form dipped markedly on soft last time; likely to struggle with forecast conditions again not in his favour.

Official BHA Rating 140

1 1 D O M A I N E D E L’ I S L E ( F R ) ( 1 1 )

B g Network (GER) - Gratiene de L’Isle (FR) (Altayan) Owner: 12 Oaks Racing and Mr Ian Hutchins Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Sean Curran, Swindon Colours: BROWN, WHITE epaulets.

Breeder: Mme Veronique Sayet Form: 15-4P04 CD

David Bass

HHH At the top of his game when beating Bennys King in this contest (off this mark) on heavy ground last year, completing a hat-trick in the process; not near that form since, including over hurdles; hopes of a revival are largely pinned on first-time blinkers.

Official BHA Rating 140

1 2 TO U C H K I C K ( I R E ) (1 5 )

B g Presenting - Bay Pearl (FR) (Broadway Flyer (USA)) Owner: Hothersall & West Horse Age: 10 Weight: 10 10 Trainer: Simon West, Middleham Colours: YELLOW, BLACK star, Breeder: Aaron Metcalfe DARK GREEN sleeves, RED cap.

Form: 1624-F0 D

John Kington

H Below-par favourite on final start for Paul Nicholls; fell in the Grand Sefton at Aintree on debut for this yard, then failed to shine in a jumpers’ bumper; has a question mark over current form; cheekpieces fitted.

Official BHA Rating 138

R A C I N G PA G E S

41

5

1 3 CO LO RA D O D O C (G B ) ( 2 5 )

B g Dr Massini (IRE) - First Royal (GER) (Lando (GER)) Owner: Mr David Brace Horse Age: 10 Weight: 10 6 Trainer: David Brace, Bridgend Colours: BLACK, RED cross belts and Breeder: Mr David Brace armlets, quartered cap.

Sponsor: Dunraven Group of Companies Form: 1//2221-P

Connor Brace (3)

HH Just three starts as a chaser, winning four-runner race at Plumpton (2m3f, heavy) on second attempt; pulled up (reportedly lost action) latest; on the limited evidence he has a good deal to prove in this company.

Official BHA Rating 134

1 4 L O U I S ’ VAC P O U C H ( I R E ) ( 4 9 )

B g Oscar (IRE) - Coming Home (FR) (Exit To Nowhere (USA)) Owner: The Vacuum Pouch Company Limited Horse Age: 9 Weight: 10 4 Trainer: Philip Kirby, Richmond Colours: RED, GREY striped sleeves, Breeder: Pat Kinsella WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Topspec Equine Ltd, Philip Kirby Racing Form: 20-0F00 D

William Kennedy

H Ran respectably in last year’s Plate at Cheltenham on second start for this stable; subsequent form leaves a lot to be desired and he needs to turn things around in a major way.

Official BHA Rating 132

Blinkers worn first time by No. 11. Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 12.

Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 5, 11. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2.

Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 5.

Stewards Note: ACTING LASS: Following its run on 11/11/2020 it was reported that the horse had a breathing problem.

COLORADO DOC: Following its run on 29/12/2020 it was reported that the horse ran too freely and lost his action.

2020: DOMAINE DE L’ISLE (FR) 7 10 13 David Bass 5-1 (Sean Curran) 8 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT ST

D I S TA N C E

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RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

11-2 Capeland (FR), 6-1 Bennys King (IRE), 8-1 Dashel Drasher (GB), Espoir de Guye (FR), Windsor Avenue (IRE), Jerrysback (IRE), 9-1 Acting Lass (IRE), Good Boy Bobby (IRE), 12-1 Jonniesofa (IRE), Domaine de L’Isle (FR), 14-1 Young Wolf (IRE), 18-1 Touch Kick (IRE), 22-1 Colorado Doc (GB), 25-1 Louis’ Vac Pouch (IRE) 4 2 R A C I N G PA G E S

5 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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43

THE CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE

MASTER MINDED RECORDING HIS FIRST SUCCESS IN THE CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE IN 2009

The Matchbook Betting Exchange Clarence House Chase forms an important part of the British Jump Pattern programme, offering one of just four top-level contests throughout the season over fences at the minimum distance. Its roll of honour is littered with the very best two-mile chasers that have graced the sport and the 2021 winner will join this very select list.

Prior to 2007, the race was run as a handicap and there were some thrilling weightcarrying performances including Desert Orchid getting the better of Panto Prince in the very first edition in 1989.

Isio’s memorable win over Azertyuiop is another famous renewal while Viking Flagship, Call Equiname and Well Chief were also high-class winners during that time.

When the race returned to Ascot upon the opening of the new grandstand it was promoted to a Grade 1 contest and ever since it has routinely attracted equine superstars.

Paul Nicholls dominated the race in the late 2000s, winning three consecutive renewals. Two of those were with Master Minded, the brilliant dual Champion Chaser who was guided to victory by Ruby Walsh in 2009 and AP McCoy in 2011. In between those two years Nicholls also landed the race with Twist Magic while the 2012 renewal saw Henrietta Knight’s Somersby upset Finian’s Rainbow and Al Ferof.

The three runnings between 2013 and 2015 proved to be a golden era for the race, with each winner going on to claim the Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival that year.

44 THE CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE

The incomparable Sprinter Sacre registered his victory in the Clarence House at Cheltenham after the race was moved there in 2013 with the meeting at Ascot abandoned due to snow. Sire De Grugy collected the prize in 2014 comfortably from Hidden Cyclone en route to winning all four open Grade 1 races over fences at two miles in his outstanding season of 2013/14.

Paul Nicholls was back in the winners enclosure in 2015 with Dodging Bullets who proved too strong for the returning Sprinter Sacre.

From 2016 to 2018 the race was dominated by one name as Un De Sceaux became the first horse to win the race three times for Willie Mullins. His first victory was probably his most impressive, easily dispatching Sire De Grugy under Walsh.

A year later the race was switched to Cheltenham after Ascot was frozen but the change of scenery made no difference as the nine-year-old glided to a straightforward success from Uxizandre. That made Walsh the most successful jockey in the race with four wins but it was Paul Townend in the saddle for his third victory, grinding out success after getting on top of the free-wheeling Speredek.

Just two rivals turned up to tackle the mighty Altior in 2019 when he extended his world-record breaking winning streak to 17 in emphatic style at odds of 1/10.

Un De Sceaux was back for more in 2020 but he was denied a remarkable fourth victory in the race at the age of 12 by the new kid on the block, Defi Du Seuil, in a thrilling head-to-head.

DEFI DU SEUIL (RIGHT) WAS AN IMPRESSIVE WINNER OF LAST YEAR’S RENEWAL FROM THREE-TIME WINNER OF THE GRADE 1 UN DE SCEAUX

THE CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE 45

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R AC E 6 3.35PM T H E M AT C H B O O K B E T T I N G E XC H A N G E CLARENCE HOUSE STEEPLE CHASE RACE FINISH

( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 1 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE START

Two miles about one furlong (2m 167yds) (3,300 metres) For five yrs old and upwards Total race value £104500. Owners Prize Money. Winner £45541; Second £18695; Third £9353; Fourth £4671; Fifth £2341; Sixth £1170. (Penalty Value £59512.75) A See page 57 for conditions of this race.

Matchbook 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

BUN DORAN (IRE) (43)

B g Shantou (USA) - Village Queen (IRE) (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Crossed Fingers Partnership Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Tom George, Slad Colours: LIGHT BLUE, ROYAL BLUE star, Breeder: Mrs Mary F. Griffin WHITE and ROYAL BLUE check sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: HBA Media Form: 21F3-05

Jockey Sean Bowen

HH Better than ever last season, winning Grade 2 at Kempton and creditable third (though 13l behind Politologue) in the Champion Chase; not near that form in the Haldon Gold Cup and Peterborough Chase this term; easy enough to oppose back at Grade 1 level.

Official BHA Rating 154

2

DEFI DU SEUIL (FR) (69)

B g Voix du Nord (FR) - Quarvine du Seuil (FR) (Lavirco (GER)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Mme Catherine Boudot YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Form: 21114-P CD BF

Richard Johnson

HHHH Impressive in this race (on heavy ground) last year when on a roll and completing a notable hat-trick, having won the Shloer Chase and Tingle Creek en route; subsequently a disappointing favourite in the Champion Chase and the latest Shloer Chase; currently under a cloud but holds every chance if recapturing the brilliance of 12 months ago. Official BHA Rating 168

3

DUC DES GENIEVRES (FR) (27)

Gr g Buck’s Boum (FR) - Lobelie (FR) (Round Sovereign (FR)) Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: RED, PINK hoop Breeder: Mme Colette Serre and armlets.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 02F5-23

Daryl Jacob

HHH Stablemate of Politologue; losing spell goes back to his success in the 2019 Arkle for Willie Mullins and he hasn’t reproduced that form since; not disgraced in two Grade 2 events for new yard but needs to do better, including with his jumping (lacked fluency last time).

Official BHA Rating 159

4 FA N I O N D ’ E S T R U VA L ( F R ) ( 4 3 ) B g Enrique - Urfe d’Estruval (FR) (Martaline) Owner: Mr David Wilson Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Breeder: Marie-Francoise Le Gentil Sponsor: Faucets Limited

Charlie Deutsch

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Colours: RED, GREY cross belts and sleeves.

Form: 1115-2F D

HHH Ex-French 6yo who is largely progressive; good second in Cheltenham handicap (2m) on reappearance and was going well when falling three out in the rescheduled Peterborough Chase there (2m4f) next time; just four runs in Britain and still has more to offer but this is a harder task.

Official BHA Rating 154

5

F I R ST F LOW ( I R E ) ( 27)

B g Primary (USA) - Clonroche Wells (IRE) (Pierre) Owner: Mr A. N. Solomons Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Kim Bailey, Cheltenham Colours: BLACK, EMERALD GREEN hoop and Breeder: Mrs Kathleen Flood armlets, EMERALD GREEN cap, BLACK spots.

Sponsor: Kim Bailey Racing Ltd Form: 2111-11 CD

HHH Highly productive chaser who has won his last five starts, including good handicaps over C&D and at Wetherby (gamely) this term; now 6-10 in this sphere, relishes soft/heavy ground and may not have stopped improving yet; however, he will do well to extend his winning sequence on these terms.

Official BHA Rating 156

4 8 R A C I N G PA G E S

David Bass

6

6

L E PAT R I O T E ( F R ) ( 4 2 )

B g Poliglote - Sentosa (FR) (Kaldounevees (FR)) Owner: Canard Vert Racing Club Trainer: Dr Richard Newland, Droitwich Breeder: Mr Guillaume Vitse & Mme Camille Vitse Sponsor: Carehome Selection Ltd

Charlie Hammond

Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 7 Colours: RED, LIGHT GREEN epaulets and sleeves, LIGHT GREEN cap, RED star.

Form: 040-131 C D

H Useful novice chaser who is 2-3 this season, though latest win (at Hereford) looked fortunate as he was gifted the race when a better-travelling rival fell two out; refitted blinkers replace usual cheekpieces; has the worst chance at the weights, back up sharply in class.

Official BHA Rating 146

7

P O L I TO LO GU E ( F R ) (49)

Gr g Poliglote - Scarlet Row (FR) (Turgeon (USA)) Owner: Mr J. Hales Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mme Henri Devin Sponsor: Morson Group

Harry Cobden

Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 7 Colours: YELLOW, RED star, YELLOW sleeves, WHITE armlets, YELLOW cap, RED star.

Form: 22/251-1 C D

HHHH Back in the groove with commanding wins from the front in the Champion Chase and Tingle Creek, both on soft ground (1-1 on heavy); latter was his second success in that Sandown race; had mixed RPRs in the six defeats prior to those last two performances; again looks likely to have an uncontested lead, and should be hard to peg back provided he remains in top form.

Official BHA Rating 169

8

WA I T I N G PAT I E N T LY ( I R E ) ( 2 8 )

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Rossavon (IRE) (Beneficial) Owner: Mr Richard Collins Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Ruth Jefferson, Malton Colours: WHITE, ROYAL BLUE chevron, Breeder: Vincent Finn PINK cap.

Sponsor: Collins (Seafoods) Ltd Form: 1/U23/3-2 C

Brian Hughes

HHHHH Supplemented for this race earlier in the week; hugely progressive early in career and beat Cue Card in Grade 1 contest here (2m5f, soft) in February 2018; raced just five times since but retains all of his ability judged on last two performances, namely strong-finishing efforts in the 2019 Tingle Creek (close third to Defi Du Seuil) and 2020 King George (got going too late to peg back Frodon); bang there on ratings and this stiff test at the trip will suit; respected.

Official BHA Rating 167 Blinkers worn by No. 6. Tongue Strap worn by No. 3, 7. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 8.

Stewards Note: DEFI DU SEUIL: Following its run on 15/11/2020 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

2020: DEFI DU SEUIL (FR) 7 11 7 Barry Geraghty 11-10 (Philip Hobbs) 5 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT ST

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49

6 RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

5-4 Politologue (FR), 9-4 Waiting Patiently (IRE), 4-1 Defi du Seuil (FR), 14-1 Duc des Genievres (FR), Fanion d’Estruval (FR), First Flow (IRE), 33-1 Bun Doran (IRE), 66-1 Le Patriote (FR)

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.

5 0 R A C I N G PA G E S

ASCOT’S SPONSORS Ascot would like to thank all our 2021 sponsors

O F F I C I A L PA R T N E R S QIPCO, Longines

OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS AND SPONSORS Betfred, Dubai Duty Free, Fenwick, Fever-Tree, Garrard, Hallgarten & Novum Wines, Harrogate Water, Lavazza, Moët & Chandon, Pernod Ricard UK, Porsche, Sodexo, Stella Artois

R AC E S P O N S O R S Alvarium

Fortnum & Mason

Millgate

Mrs Anne Cowley

Foundation Developments Ltd

Molton Brown London

The Anders Foundation

Gallagher Re

Nick Miles Esq

Ascot Underwriting Ltd

A Garden for All Seasons

The October Club

bet365

Geotech Soil Stabilisation Ltd

Betfair Byrne Group Plc Canaccord Genuity Ltd Carey Group Plc Champagne Jacquart Chanelle Pharma Chapel Down Charbonnel et Walker Close Brothers Property

(Trading as GEOBIND®) GL events UK Irish Thoroughbred Marketing John Guest Racing Ltd Keeneland

Pennyhill Park PGIM Real Estate Property Raceday The Royal Foresters Ruddy Joinery & Fit-Out Specialists

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Coral

Long Harbour

Creativevents

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UK Tote Group Ltd

Crown Designs

Matchbook

Veolia

European Breeders Fund

McGee Group Ltd

Wood & Wood Signs

eventmasters.co.uk

Merriebelle Stable

The Wooldridge Group

Thames Materials The Vent Family

ASCOT’S SPONSORS

51

Elegance is an attitude Kate Winslet

Record collection

GRIPPING

M A R C H R AC E DAY S U N DAY 2 8 T H M A R C H

Ascot’s Jumps Season comes to a thrilling close. Old heads clash in an unmissable Veterans Chase, while new contenders stake their claim for glory in a Juvenile Handicap Hurdle.

Visit ascot.co.uk

R AC E 7 4 .1 0 P M T H E M ATC H B O O K B E T T I N G E XC H A N G E B R I T I S H E B F ‘ N AT I O N A L H U N T ’ N OV I C E S ’ H U R D L E R AC E ( C L A S S 3 ) ( Q UA L I F I E R ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about five and a half furlongs (2m 5f 141yds) (4,300 metres) For novice four, five, six and seven yrs old Total race value £9500. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4705; Second £1559; Third £780; Fourth £390. (Penalty Value £6173.10) See page 57 for conditions of this race.

Matchbook 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

BUZZ DE TURCOING (FR) (52)

B g Maresca Sorrento (FR) - Panora Night (FR) (Panoramic) Owner: Prestbury Thoroughbreds Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Samuel Drinkwater, Strensham Colours: DARK GREEN, RED hoop, EMERALD Breeder: Frederic Duvivier GREEN sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap, RED star.

Form: 6/520-31

Jockey Jack Tudor (3)

HH Placed over 2m on reappearance then looked better suited by 2m7f at Haydock (heavy) where he opened his Rules account at the sixth attempt; faces a tougher task in this field back down slightly in trip.

Official BHA Rating 123

2

J E R E M Y PA S S ( I R E ) ( 6 5 )

B g Jeremy (USA) - Toulon Pass (IRE) (Toulon) Owner: Mr John Dance Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: D. J. Fitzpatrick Sponsor: Vertem Asset Management

Harry Cobden

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 8 Colours: WHITE, MAROON and PURPLE striped sleeves.

Form: F/35-1

HHHHH Final-fence faller in Irish point; placed in one of his bumper starts; improved for the switch to hurdles at Wincanton (2m5f, good to soft) two months ago, readily beating a subsequent dual-winner; respected.

Official BHA Rating -

3

T U P E LO M I S S I S S I P P I ( I R E ) ( 3 6)

B g Yeats (IRE) - Misleain (IRE) (Un Desperado (FR)) Owner: Phil & Julie Martin Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Brian Ellison, Malton Colours: LIGHT GREEN, DARK GREEN chevrons, Breeder: Robin Ellerbeck (Bloodstock) Ltd RED sleeves, WHITE and RED striped cap.

Sponsor: Brian Ellison Racing Limited Form: 411-231

Brian Hughes

HHH Northern challenger who has a solid record and looks open to further progress; justified favouritism at Uttoxeter (2m4f, heavy; third hurdles start) last month, adding to his two bumper wins; not ruled out.

Official BHA Rating 125

4 VA L L E R E S ( F R ) ( 5 0 )

B g Coastal Path - Duchesse Pierji (FR) (Cadoudal (FR)) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: EMERALD GREEN, DARK GREEN sleeves, Breeder: Mr Pierre Julienne DARK GREEN and EMERALD GREEN quartered cap.

Sponsor: Ptarmigan Media Limited Form: 13-122

Daryl Jacob

HHHH Form figures of 122 over hurdles, the win recorded at Wetherby (2m3f); ran creditably, albeit no match for the subsequent Challow runner-up Star Gate, in a Grade 2 at Sandown (2m4f, heavy) latest; big player. Official BHA Rating 135

5

D I A KO S A I N T ( F R ) ( 7 )

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Diananisse (FR) (Panis (USA)) Owner: The Vacuum Pouch Company Limited Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Philip Kirby, Richmond Colours: RED, GREY striped sleeves, Breeder: Comte Jean-Jacques De La Rochette et al WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Topspec Equine Ltd, Philip Kirby Racing Form: P415

H Off the mark at the third attempt in Irish points; modest fifth on rules debut at Market Rasen (2m2f novice hurdle, heavy) last Saturday; up against it here based on that effort.

Official BHA Rating -

5 4 R A C I N G PA G E S

William Kennedy

6

G L A D I AT E U R A L L E N ( F R ) ( 1 3 )

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Une Epoque (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Mrs Jane Williams Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Colours: ORANGE, BLACK star and Breeder: Mr Bruno Vagne star on cap.

Sponsor: Nick & Jane Williams Racing Form: 23

7 Chester Williams (5)

HHHH Placed in maiden hurdles at Ffos Las (2m4f, heavy) and Exeter (2m1f, soft), showing clear promise and a good level of form; has a fighting chance on RPRs and remains open to progress; major contender.

Official BHA Rating 122

Tongue Strap worn by No. 1, 2.

2020: FALCO BLITZ (IRE) 6 11 8 Jeremiah McGrath 2-1 (Nicky Henderson) 7 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:

5-2 Jeremy Pass (IRE), 10-3 Tupelo Mississippi (IRE), Valleres (FR), 4-1 Gladiateur Allen (FR), 11-2 Buzz de Turcoing (FR), 40-1 Diakosaint (FR)

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.

R A C I N G PA G E S

55

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 Kelly McSorley Vincent McKevitt Lisa Cook Veterinary Officer Sally Taylor

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

Shaun Parker (Chief Steward) William Barlow (Stewards’ Panel Chair) Bethany Dowswell, Steve Drowne, Emily Jones, Chris Rutter

OFFICIALS

Starters Robert Supple James Stenning Clerk of the Scales Ollie Mann Judge Nick Bostock

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 bet365 JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Novices’ Championship Hurdle Series Qualifier) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £6173 to the winning horse The second to receive £1812, the third £906, the fourth £453, the fifth £350, the sixth £350, the seventh £350 and the eighth £350. for juvenile four yrs old, which have not won more than three hurdle races. Enter by noon, January 18th and pay £47 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. January 21st.

Weights: 10st 12lb each Fillies allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 3 to Class 5 hurdle race 6lb Of 2 hurdle races or of a Class 1 or Class 2 hurdle race 10lb. bet365 will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and stable employee. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. Horses which have been placed in the first four in this race will be eligible to enter THE NOVICES’ CHAMPIONSHIP HURDLE SERIES FINAL (A HANDICAP HURDLE RACE) to be run over a distance of about two miles at Sandown Park on April 24th, 2021. 13 entries at £47. - Closed January 18th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4705; Second £1559; Third £780; Fourth £390; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280; Eighth £280.

(Penalty Value £6173.10) SEE PAGE 12 FOR THIS RACE. Second Race 1.15 - THE MATCHBOOK BETTING PODCAST MARES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (Registered as the Warfield) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £19932 to the winning horse The second to receive £7479, the third £3745, the fourth £1865 and the fifth £938. for four yrs old and upwards fillies and mares only. Enter by noon, January 18th and pay £175 stake, Supplementary Entry by noon, January 20th and pay £1750 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. January 21st.

Weights: 4-y-o 10st 1lb; 5-y-o and up 11st Penalties, after September 30th, 2019, a winner of a Listed or Grade 3 hurdle race 4lb Of a Grade 1 or Grade 2 hurdle race 6lb (Half penalties for wins achieved in Novices’ or Juvenile Hurdle Races in Great Britain and Ireland, and three-year-old only Hurdle Races in France). MATCHBOOK will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and award a cash prize of £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of MATCHBOOK. 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. 6 entries at £175. - Closed January 18th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £15253; Second £6262; Third £3133; Fourth £1565; Fifth £784.

(Penalty Value £19932.50) A SEE PAGE 18 FOR THIS RACE.

5 6 T O D AY ’ S O F F I C I A L S

Third Race 1.50 - THE MATCHBOOK BETTER WAY TO BET HOLLOWAY’S HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £19932 to the winning horse The second to receive £7479, the third £3745, the fourth £1865, the fifth £938 and the sixth £469. for four yrs old and upwards. £175 stake if the horse is rated 125 or higher, or £35 stake if the horse is rated 124 or lower with £140 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m.

January 21st. Penalties, after January 16th, 2021, a winner of a hurdle race 5lb. MATCHBOOK has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a £200 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of MATCHBOOK. 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. PLEASE NOTE: A novice or juvenile 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 24 entries, 1 at £35 and 23 at £175. - Closed January 18th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £15253; Second £6262; Third £3133; Fourth £1565; Fifth £784; Sixth £392. (Penalty Value £19932.50) SEE PAGE 24 FOR THIS RACE. Fourth Race 2.25 - THE MATCHBOOK BEST ODDS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £7635 to the winning horse The second to receive £2241, the third £1120, the fourth £560, the fifth £350, the sixth £350, the seventh £350 and the eighth £350. for five yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-135 (also open to such horses rated 136 and 137 - see Standard Conditions). £58 stake if the horse is rated 109 or higher, or £11 stake if the horse is rated 108 or lower with £47 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. January 21st.

Penalties, after January 16th, 2021, for each steeple chase won 7lb. MATCHBOOK has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and in addition award a cash prize of £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of MATCHBOOK. 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 £58. - Closed January 18th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £5820; Second £1928; Third £965; Fourth £482; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280; Eighth £280. (Penalty Value £7635.14) SEE PAGE 32 FOR THIS RACE. Fifth Race 3.00 - THE bet365 HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £32844 to the winning horse The second to receive £9702, the third £4851, the fourth £2425, the fifth £1212 and the sixth £609. for five yrs old and upwards. £262 stake if the horse is rated 125 or higher, or £52 stake if the horse is rated 124 or lower with £210 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m.

January 21st. Penalties, after January 16th, 2021, for each steeple chase won 5lb. bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and stable employee. In addition a cash prize of £200 to the stable employee in charge of 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 bet365. 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. 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 20 entries at £262. - Closed January 18th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £24938; Second £8332; Third £4169; Fourth £2084; Fifth £1040; Sixth £520. (Penalty Value £32844) Weights raised 6lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 40 FOR THIS RACE. Sixth Race 3.35 - THE MATCHBOOK BETTING EXCHANGE CLARENCE HOUSE STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £59512 to the winning horse The second to receive £22331, the third £11181, the fourth £5569, the fifth £2800 and the sixth £1400. for five 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 29th, 2020 and pay £125 stake, Confirm by noon, January 18th and pay £375, Supplementary Entry by noon, January 18th and pay £5000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. January 21st. Weights: 5-y-o 11st 4lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 7lb Mares allowed 7lb. MATCHBOOK has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £200 cash prize will be presented to the stable employee in charge of 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 MATCHBOOK. 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. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Runners will be paraded in the order requested by the managing executive on the day. (No confirmation of entry is required for Supplementary entries). 13 entries, 3 at £125, 9 at £500, 1 at £5000. - Closed December 29th, 2020. Owners Prize Money. Winner £45541; Second £18695; Third £9353; Fourth £4671; Fifth £2341; Sixth £1170. (Penalty Value £59512.75) A SEE PAGE 48 FOR THIS RACE. Seventh Race 4.10 - THE MATCHBOOK BETTING EXCHANGE BRITISH EBF ‘NATIONAL HUNT’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Qualifier) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £6173 to the winning horse The second to receive £1812, the third £906 and the fourth £453. for novice four, five, six and seven yrs old, which are E.B.F. eligible, which have not run in a flat race and which have not won more than two hurdle races. Enter by noon, January 18th and pay £47 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m.

January 21st. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 4lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 2lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 3 to Class 5 hurdle race 6lb Of 2 hurdle races or of a Class 1 or Class 2 hurdle race 10lb No allowance to take a Horse’s weight below 10st.

THE TRUSTEES OF THE E.B.F. have kindly given £1000 towards the prize money for this race. MATCHBOOK have generously sponsored this race and will provide a memento which will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a cash prize of £100 will be presented to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of MATCHBOOK. 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. Horses placed first, second, third or fourth in this race will qualify for the Final (A Handicap) of the E.B.F. ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle Race Series, to be run over two miles about four furlongs at Sandown Park on Saturday, March 13th, 2021. 14 entries at £47. - Closed January 18th, 2021.

Owners Prize Money. Winner £4705; Second £1559; Third £780; Fourth £390. (Penalty Value £6173.10) SEE PAGE 54 FOR THIS RACE.

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

57

THE ASCOT ENQUIRY Dominic Elsworth 2012 saw Dominic Elsworth race to victory in the Grade 1 Victor Chandler Chase (registered as The Clarence House) at Ascot riding the Henrietta Knight-trained Somersby.

Often remembered for his partnership with the Sue Smithtrained Mister McGoldrick, Dominic retired from race-riding in 2015 but is still actively involved with the racing industry through his role as jockey coach where he shares his skills and passion to help the next generation of jockey, and he also rides out for Hughie Morrison daily.

Dominic shares with us his favourite Ascot moment, a jockey to look out for and the unlikely skill he has taught himself since retiring.

Your favourite Ascot memory from your time as a jockey?

Winning The Clarence House Chase on Somersby.

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

I loved riding any horse that passed the post in front, as it’s always prestigious to have winners at Ascot!!

Tell us a little known fact about yourself ?

I’ve taught myself to play the acoustic guitar and can play more or less anything. My alter ego is a rockstar living in L.A. who plays golf most days and is performing sell-out arena concerts at night; my management was contacted just last week asking me if I’d like to have a residency in Vegas.... still in negotiations.

Which National Hunt horse currently in training would you like to ride in this year’s Matchbook Betting Exchange Clarence House Chase and why?

Politologue. Everyone loves a grey, especially a front running one!

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

Don’t keep asking for long strides all the time when out in the country - it wastes energy.

What do you miss most about your time in the saddle?

Everything! The thrill of riding winners, the thrill of getting a good jump at the last fence to win the race, the daily structure and discipline that’s needed to perform at your best.

You jump the last fence in the Clarence House riding Somersby upsides Desert Orchid, under Simon Sherwood, and Dodging Bullets, ridden by Noel Fehily. Who wins?

There was a mix-up at declaration time and I somehow ended up riding Desert Orchid and we take lengths out of the others at the last. (Simon unfortunately got unseated from Somersby). He was the first horse to inspire me into racing so my allegiance lies with him.

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

Richard Hannon Snr., Ronnie Wood (owner) Roger Waters (owner) and Pat Smullen.

Hurdles or chase fences?

Chase fences. I have taken some of Ascot’s clients down to the last fence of a two-mile chase and everyone that came along couldn’t believe how exhilarating it is. When you stand next to the fence you get to really see how much power and speed a horse has - TV doesn’t do it justice!!

If you could win an Olympic medal at any sport, real or fake, which sport would you choose?

I love my golf, so it’d be that.

A young jump jockey to look out for?

James Bowen If you had not become a jockey which career would you have chosen?

Professional golfer 5 8 T H E A SCOT E N Q U I RY

THE WAIT ONLY ADDS TO THE DRAMA

15–19 JUNE 2021

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

DEFI DU SEUIL ( front cover)

Winner of the 2020 Matchbook Clarence House Chase Jockey: Barry Geraghty Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: John P McManus Breeder: Mme Catherine Boudot

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