Ascot racecard - Betfair Ascot Chase Raceday 2021

B E T FA I R A S C O T C H A S E R A C E D AY Saturday 20th February 2021

THE WAIT ONLY ADDS TO THE DRAMA

15–19 JUNE 2021

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

CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME Welcome to Betfair Ascot Chase raceday, the first of two spectacular days of racing under the Betfair banner this weekend, culminating tomorrow with Newbury’s rearranged Super Saturday card. Excellent collaboration between the BHA, Newbury and our mutual sponsors Betfair has made this possible and we are delighted that ITV will cover much of the action.

Today’s feature race is the Grade 1 Betfair Ascot Chase, the last keypointer towards the Ryanair Chase at next month’s Cheltenham Festival. The race features the return of the enigmatic but brilliant Cyrname, following a disappointing run in the King George at Kempton. In the past he has saved his very best for Ascot, including an emphatic win in the 2019 renewal of this race and that year’s course and distance 1965 Chase. He will need to be at his best today in a race also featuring talented stablemate Master Tommytucker, last year’s winner Riders Onthe Storm and the improving Dashel Drasher, a dual course-and-distance winner this season.

Betfair sponsor two further races today, The ‘My Oddsboost’ On Betfair Swinley Chase and The Betfair Cheltenham Free Bet Pot Builder Handicap Hurdle, and we are most grateful for their continued support.

The Grade 2 Bateaux London Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase is Ascot’s most important event for novice chasers and often used as a trial for either the Grade 1 Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase or the National Hunt Chase at the Festival. The likes of Albertas Run, Bobs Worth, O’Faolain’s Boy and Minella Rocco have all used the race before going on to success at Cheltenham. We are delighted that for the first time, today’s renewal is being sponsored by Bateaux London.

Last week, the Thoroughbred Breeders Association and Great British Racing International launched the Great British Stallion Showcase initiative and our opening race has been dedicated to this exciting venture. In the absence of the Stallion Parades normally held at this time of year, the new website houses photos and videos of first and second season Flat stallions as well as National Hunt stallions of all ages along with audio clips from stud managers, pedigrees and fees.

The penultimate race on the card is dedicated to Berkshire Vision, a charity that has been supporting blind and partially sighted children and adults across the county for 110 years.

Ascot Racecourse became especially involved with the charity during the first wave of the pandemic, with staff volunteering to join their telephone befriending service.

The concluding EBF Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race is run in support of Dingley’s Promise, a Berkshire-based charity whose mission is to deliver life changing support to young children with additional needs and disabilities. There is more information about both those charities within these pages.

I hope you enjoy today’s racing on ITV and Sky Sports Racing and wish all owners, trainers, jockeys and stable staff the very best for the Cheltenham Festival next month. A selection of Ascot winners from this season to look out for at Prestbury Park is included in the racecard.

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

3

CONTENTS 03

05

06

WELCOME

HOW TO READ THE RACING PAGES

A S H O RT H I S TO R Y

29

64-65

66

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

14-62

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

PAGES 14-15

1st Race 1.15pm The greatbritishstallionshowcase.co.uk Novices’ Hurdle Race (GBB Race)

Novice races tend to be for younger horses that are still learning their way over hurdles or fences, allowing them to compete against each other before graduating up the ranks. Horses are classed as a novice if they have yet to win a race under the respective code prior to the official start of the season, which is towards the end of April. This particular contest is a novices’ hurdle for horses aged five and upwards, run over two miles and about three and a half furlongs.

PAGES 20-21

2nd Race 1.50pm The Bateaux London Reynoldstown Novices’ Steeple Chase (Grade 2) (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 three mile steeple chase for novices aged five and upwards are allocated on the basis of age and sex, before penalties are awarded to horses which have won above a certain level prior to taking part here. These range from 3lb for winners of a Class 2 weight-for-age or Class 1 handicap chase, to 5lb for victory in a Class 1 weight-for-age chase.

PAGES 26-28

3rd Race 2.25pm The ‘My Oddsboost’ On Betfair Swinley Steeple Chase (A Limited Handicap) (Listed Race) (GBB Race)

This is a three-mile Listed handicap hurdle race for five-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 34-37

4th Race 3.00pm The Betfair Cheltenham Free Bet Pot Builder Handicap Hurdle Race (GBB Race)

This handicap hurdle race for four-year-olds and upwards is run over two miles and about three and a half furlongs. In a handicap, the weight that each of the runners carries is determined by their official handicap rating, which is based on their level of form shown so far.

4

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 42-43

5th Race 3.35pm The Betfair Ascot 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 and five furlongs. 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 52-55

6th Race 4.10pm The Ascot Racecourse Supports Berkshire Vision Handicap Hurdle Race (Qualifier for the Challenger Stayers Hurdle Series Final) This handicap hurdle race for four-year-olds and upwards rated from 0-125 is run over two miles and about seven and a half 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 125 in this particular race would be required to carry 5lb more than a rival rated 120.

PAGES 60-62

7th Race 4.45pm The Dingley’s Promise British EBF Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (NHMOPS Bonus Race) (GBB Race)

As the title suggests, a National Hunt Flat Race - or ‘bumper’, as they are more commonly referred to - is a race that takes place without any fences or hurdles.

Designed for young horses that, it is presumed, will go jumping in time, only debutantes or horses that have run in this type of race (or an Irish or French equivalent) are qualified to run. If they have previously run on the Flat, over hurdles or in steeple chases (except for point-to-points), they are barred from entry. This particular contest is restricted to fillies and mares aged four, five and six, which are E.B.F. eligible, and will be run over two miles.

HOW TO READ THE RACING PAGES 1

234

5 6

7

8

9

10

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

11

12

13

14 15

16

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.

17

18 19

20

21

22

23

21. Weight (stones/pounds) 22. Official BHA Rating The BHA Handicappers allot ratings to horses once they have taken part in a sufficient number of races to enable the Handicappers to make a numerical assessment of each horse’s ability. The principal purpose of the ratings is to determine the weight to be carried by each runner in handicap races, with the Handicappers aiming to provide each participant with an equal chance based on its best recent form under its optimum conditions. A horse rated 100, for example, would be set to carry 1lb more than a horse rated 99 (ignoring penalties and allowances). The ratings published in the racecard for handicap races are the ratings that were used to calculate the weight to be carried by each horse, whilst in non-handicapped races the rating shown is that of each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed. Any subsequently published change in rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating.

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

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

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

5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6

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

7

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

NICO DE BOINVILLE HARRY SKELTON DAVID BASS MATT GRIFFITHS JAMES BOWEN

5 15 WINS: 3 RIDES: 11 WINS: 3 RIDES: 13 WINS: 2 RIDES: 2 WINS: 2 RIDES: 5 WINS: RIDES:

STRIKE-RATE:

33%

STRIKE-RATE:

27%

STRIKE-RATE:

23%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

40%

TRAINERS

1 2 3 4 5 8

NICKY WINS: 6 HENDERSON RUNNERS: 25 DAN WINS: 5 RUNNERS: 20 SKELTON ANTHONY WINS: 3 HONEYBALL RUNNERS: 6 KIM WINS: 3 BAILEY RUNNERS: 9 JEREMY WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 3 SCOTT 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 L E A D I N G PA R T I C I PA N T S

STRIKE-RATE:

24%

STRIKE-RATE:

25%

STRIKE-RATE:

50%

STRIKE-RATE:

33%

STRIKE-RATE:

67%

OWNERS WINS: 3 RUNNERS: 15

1

JOHN P MCMANUS

2

MRS B TULLY AND R LOCK

WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 2

=

AN SOLOMONS

WINS: 2 RUNNERS: 2

4

PHIL MUNNELLY

=

GC STEVENS

WINS: 1 RUNNERS: 1 WINS: 1 RUNNERS: 1

STRIKE-RATE:

20%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

STRIKE-RATE:

100%

First Flow, ridden by David Bass and trained by Kim Bailey, was the winner of the feature Clarence House Chase at our last meeting for owner A N Solomons. Click the image below to see a replay of the race:

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

9

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

THE GREAT BRITISH STALLION SHOWCASE Explore an interactive gallery of previous stars of the turf as they embark on their new careers producing the winners of the future. The Great British Stallion Showcase website offers thoroughbred breeders, racehorse owners, bloodstock enthusiasts and racing fans the chance to learn more about the latest recruits to the Flat stallion ranks and the range of National Hunt stallions on offer in Britain today.

The Great British Stallion Showcase - www.greatbritishstallionshowcase.co.uk – introduced earlier this month to assist thoroughbred breeders during Covid-19 restrictions has created a new opportunity for more fans to see behind the scenes at some of Britain’s top stallion studs.

Brought to you by the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) and Great British Racing International (GBRI), the website features approximately 40 British-based stallions from across the country, including first and second season Flat stallions, and all-aged National Hunt stallions.

The user-friendly platform provides the ideal opportunity to check back on former stars of the track as they embark on a second career, helping to shape the next generation that will grace the racecourse in years to come.

Learn more about their careers through the audio and visual guides which include commentaries from the stallion managers who provide insights into the stallions’ personalities and traits. Whilst on-demand videos which provide the mainstay of each stallion’s profile offer visitors the chance to see stallions at close hand.

Race fans can also explore the race form, photo gallery, advertised fee, pedigree, EBF eligibility and biography all from the stallion’s main page via the easy-to-use interactive buttons. Please click on the image below for a video showing more about the Great British Stallion Showcase.

12

T H E G R E AT B R I T I S H S TA L L I O N S H O W C A S E

The following Flat stallions can be found on the Great British Stallion Showcase: Almanaara – Eqtidaar – Kameko – Land Force – Legends Of War – Masar – Mohaather – Rumble Inthejungle – Segei Prokofiev – Southern Hills – Study Of Man – Tip Two Win – Without Parole The following National Hunt stallions can be found on the Great British Stallion Showcase: Arrigo – Ask – Axxos – Dartmouth – Diplomat – Dragon Dancer – Falco – Flag Of Honour – Frammassone – Frontiersman – Gentlewave – Jack Hobbs – Linda’s lad – Master Carpenter – Masterstroke – Mountain High – Norse Dancer – Pether’s Moon – Planteur – Scalo – Schiaparelli – Scorpion – Sun Central - Telescope – Universal www.greatbritishstallionshowcase.co.uk Interested in learning more about the thoroughbred breeding industry and the TBA’s work to safeguard the future of the British thoroughbred? Visit www.thetba.co.uk for information on careers, training, incentive schemes, webinars and broodmare ownership.

GBRI is dedicated to the international promotion of the world-leading British thoroughbred racing and breeding industry. GBRI is the designated first point of contact for overseas individuals seeking to become a part of racing and breeding in Great Britain. Learn more at www.greatbritishracinginternational.com

T H E G R E AT B R I T I S H S TA L L I O N S H O W C A S E 1 3

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

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about three and a half furlongs (2m 3f 58yds) (3,800 metres) For novice five yrs old and upwards Total race value £17500. Owners Prize Money. Winner £8313; Second £2777; Third £1390; Fourth £695; Fifth £347; Sixth £173. (Penalty Value £10948) A See page 64 for conditions of this race.

The Great British Stallion Showcase.co.uk 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

MIDNIGHT RIVER (GB) (35)

Ch g Midnight Legend - Well Connected (Presenting) Owner: Mr Frank McAleavy Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: RED, BLACK triple diamond, Breeder: Swanbridge Bloodstock Limited striped sleeves, hooped cap.

Sponsor: Ladbrokes, The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 33-1214

Jockey Harry Skelton

HHHH Useful and reliable novice hurdler, successful at Uttoxeter (2m4f, good to soft) and Leicester (2m4f, soft) in the autumn; best effort when a close fourth in Grade 2 at Warwick (2m5f, heavy) last month and he ought to be in the thick of things again.

Official BHA Rating 137

2

ONE TRUE KING (IRE) (42)

Ch g Getaway (GER) - Final Leave (IRE) (Glacial Storm (USA)) Owner: Teme Valley 2 Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: MAROON, YELLOW hoops, Breeder: Joe Fogarty MAROON sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Sponsor: Agetur (UK) Ltd Form: 312210 BF

Sam Twiston-Davies

HHHH Progressed well in the second half of 2020, showing gameness from the front when second in two handicaps at Cheltenham before landing the odds in a novice at Leicester (soft); those runs were over 2m but it’s unlikely that stamina was the sole reason for heavy defeat when favourite for the Lanzarote at Kempton (2m5f) last time; type to bounce right back; much respected.

Official BHA Rating 131

3

G A L LY H I L L ( I R E ) ( 3 1 )

B g Getaway (GER) - Tanit (Xaar) Owner: Mr Claudio Michael Grech Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Breeder: Sean Gorman Sponsor: Unibet

Nico de Boinville

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 5 Colours: BLACK, PINK seams, halved sleeves and diamond on cap.

Form: 1-1

HHHHH Bought for a cool £450,000 after seeing off the now useful hurdler Ballybegg in an Irish point in November 2019; made the perfect start to his own hurdling career when justifying very strong support in novice at Newbury (2m, heavy; 30-100) last month, pulling a long way clear with the runner-up; today’s longer distance should be right up his street and he can maintain his unbeaten record before going on to better things.

Official BHA Rating -

4 EARL BIFFY BIFFEN (FR) (91)

Bl g Day Flight - Similaresisoldofa (FR) (Kapgarde (FR)) Owner: The Megsons Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Ben Pauling, Bourton-on-the-Water Colours: PINK, MAUVE star Breeder: Philippe Ouvry & E.A.R.L. Ecurie Des Viv MAUVE sleeves, PINK stars and cap.

Sponsor: Jeremy Houghton - Houghtonart Form: 0

Daryl Jacob

HH Had wind surgery before making a belated debut in a bumper at Ascot (soft; 20-1) in November, finishing seventh of 13; in at the deep end for his first start over hurdles.

Official BHA Rating -

5

T H E O LY M P I A N ( I R E ) ( 8 5 0 )

Ch g Olympic Glory (IRE) - Basira (FR) (Azamour (IRE)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Knocktoran Stud&Beshellstown Trading Co YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Hare Group Ltd Form:

HHH Promising 2yo in 2018, looking very much a stayer when winning 1m2f maiden at Newmarket (good) on third and final start; off 850 days but he should have a future over hurdles and needs monitoring closely in the market.

Official BHA Rating -

14

R A C I N G PA G E S

Tom Bellamy

1 6

T I M E F O R A DA N C E ( G B ) ( 8 9 )

B g Norse Dancer (IRE) - Timeforagin (Pasternak) Owner: Mr Brian Eckley Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Brian Eckley, Brecon Colours: BLACK, WHITE diamond, Breeder: B. J. Eckley armlets and star on cap.

Form: 0/65-00

Tom O’Brien

H Beaten out of sight in three bumpers last season and well held on both outings over hurdles; likely to find it tough in this company.

Official BHA Rating -

Stewards Note: ONE TRUE KING: Following its run on 9/1/2021 it was reported that the horse found nothing off the bridle.

2020: SPORTING JOHN (IRE) 5 11 8 Barry Geraghty 6-4 (Philip Hobbs) 4 ran

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

ST ND

TIME

RD TH

RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

8-15 Gallyhill (IRE), 4-1 One True King (IRE), 5-1 Midnight River (GB), 8-1 The Olympian (IRE), 50-1 Earl Biffy Biffen (FR), 200-1 Timeforadance (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

15

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

PARTNERS

SUPPLIERS AND SPONSORS

OFFICIAL SPIRITS

OFFICIAL BOOKMAKER

OFFICIAL SPONSOR

OFFICIAL ROYAL ASCOT MILLINERY SPONSOR

OFFICIAL MIXER

OFFICIAL TROPHIES AND SILVERWARE

OFFICIAL WINE SUPPLIER

OFFICIAL WATER

OFFICIAL COFFEE

OFFICIAL CHAMPAGNE

OFFICIAL CAR

OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY

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

16

Record collection

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

M AKE TH E RI V E R TH A M ES YO U R OWN WITH A TRU LY U N I Q U E S PAC E

R AC E 2 1.50PM T H E B AT E A U X L O N D O N R E Y N O L D S T O W N N OV I C E S ’ S T E E P L E C H A S E ( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 2 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

About three miles (2m 7f 180yds) (4,700 metres) For novice five yrs old and upwards Total race value £28000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £12202; Second £5009; Third £2506; Fourth £1252; Fifth £627; Sixth £314. (Penalty Value £15946) A See page 64 for conditions of this race.

Sodexo 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

HURRICANE HARVEY (GB) (70)

B g Doyen (IRE) - Camp Fire (IRE) (Lahib (USA)) Owner: Walid Marzouk & Richard Rowland Trainer: Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham Breeder: Mr J. L. Skinner Sponsor: Dunraven Group of Companies

Jockey Connor Brace

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

Form: 113-121 D

HHH Dual novice hurdle winner (2m5f, soft; unraced on heavy) who has scored at Uttoxeter and Doncaster in two of three chase starts; last named was a Grade 2 on first attempt at 3m but the form of that four-runner renewal can be questioned and, giving 5lb all round today, improvement is needed.

Official BHA Rating 144

2

D E M AC H I N E ( I R E ) ( 5 3 )

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Dancingonthemoon (IRE) (Milan) Owner: West Coast Haulage Limited Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Kerry Lee, Presteigne Colours: YELLOW, RED diamond, Breeder: Edmond Coleman chevrons on sleeves, RED cap.

Sponsor: Horseracing.Net Form: 332-113 CD BF

Richard Patrick

HHHH Lightly raced; greatly improved this season switched to fences, recording clearcut wins in novice handicaps at Uttoxeter (2m6f, good to soft) and Ascot (3m, soft); withdrawn when ground was heavy at Christmas; only a respectable third at Newbury at turn of the year and had wind surgery soon afterwards; if reverting to what he showed for the C&D win, he’s in the reckoning.

Official BHA Rating 140

3

F U L L B AC K ( F R ) ( 3 2 )

B g Sinndar (IRE) - Quatre Bleue (FR) (Cyborg (FR)) Owner: Mr Ashley Head Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Colours: DARK BLUE, PINK hoops, Breeder: Mr Francois-Marie Cottin chevrons on sleeves, DARK BLUE cap.

Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd Form: 514-311 D

Joshua Moore

HHH Lightly raced 6yo, sent chasing this season and much improved to win small-field events over about 3m at Plumpton (by 31l) and Exeter (in clearcut style) on last two starts; those showed he goes well on soft (sole run on heavy was hurdles debut); in the mix.

Official BHA Rating 140

4 K A LO O K I (G E R ) ( 56) Gr g Martaline - Karuma (GER) (Surumu (GER)) Owner: Mr Andrew L. Cohen Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Gestut Kussaburg Sponsor: Wood Hall Stud

Richard Johnson

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 0 Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE star, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, WHITE stars and stars on cap.

Form: 112-13P

HHH Acts on heavy; has the basic ability to be a major player at this level but he’s thrown in some jumping mistakes over fences this season and has also been jumping to his left, which is a worry for this right-handed track; cracked in a Kempton Grade 1 at Christmas (third of five in Newbury Grade 2 time before) and has a bit to prove on this first run since.

Official BHA Rating 145

5

REMASTERED (GB) (55)

Ch g Network (GER) - Cathodine Cayras (FR) (Martaline) Owner: Brocade Racing Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington Colours: RED and PURPLE (quartered), Breeder: Elms Stud Co Ltd & G. Peck YELLOW sleeves, RED cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: 2P33-11 D

HHHHH Won on heavy on both his starts over fences, either side of wind surgery; jumped well at Wetherby (3m) last time to beat his solitary rival with ease; has a lot more on his plate here but he gives the impression that he’s coming into his own now and is well worth a go in this grade.

Official BHA Rating 138

2 0 R A C I N G PA G E S

Tom Scudamore

2 6

S E VA R A N O ( I R E ) ( 5 3 )

B g Shantou (USA) - Eva La Diva (IRE) (Azamour (IRE)) Owner: Tim Syder Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Oliver Sherwood, Upper Lambourn Colours: RED and WHITE check, Breeder: Burgage Stud WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Rewards 4 Racing Ltd Form: 422-114

Jonathan Burke

HHHH Acts on heavy; won handicaps at Sandown (2m4f) and Exeter (2m3f) once switched to chasing; progress stalled over 2m6f at Newbury on third attempt (third-placed Demachine was also not at his best) but loss of confidence following a slip when jumping the first fence was blamed by his jockey; good form chance at his best but first crack at 3m gives him a bit more to prove.

Official BHA Rating 147 Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 5. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 2.

Stewards Note: SEVARANO: Following its run on 29/12/2020 it was reported that the horse was timid after an early error.

2020: COPPERHEAD 6 11 0 Jonjo O’Neill Jr 6-1 (Colin Tizzard) 6 ran

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

ST ND

TIME

RD TH

RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

5-2 Sevarano (IRE), 7-2 Full Back (FR), 5-1 Hurricane Harvey (GB), Remastered (GB), 11-2 Demachine (IRE), 6-1 Kalooki (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.

R A C I N G PA G E S

21

ASCOT SUPPORTS – WHERE ARE THEY NOW

Captain Chris is fondly remembered by many racing fans for his long-term racing partnership with Champion Jockey Richard Johnson. The pair memorably won the 2014 Ascot Chase where he took charge of the race three fences from home and stormed clear to win this coveted Grade 1 (click the photo above to see a replay of the race), making amends for the blunder he made at the second last fence in the 2013 running of the race when battling it out against Cue Card.

The handsome bay gelding had spent his racing career at Sandhill, the Somerset training base of Philip Hobbs, a facility that Colour Sergeant George Beilby and his family had used on many occasions to gallop their point-to-pointers.

It was during one such visit to these gallops in 2011 that a conversation was held between George and Hobbs’ assistant trainer Johnson White regarding another of the yard stable stars, Monkerhostin.

George had heard that Monkerhostin had been retired from racing and simply enquired if plans had been made for his life out of racing and within weeks the larger-than-life Monkey had joined George and his family to start his new life.

At the end of 2018, the Hobbs’ were looking for a suitable, active home for Captain Chris so they made the call to George and Chris arrived with them in January 2019 and the King’s Theatre sired gelding hasn’t looked back.

22 WHERE ARE THEY NOW

George feels there are many similarities between those who embark on a military career and racehorses. Both lead disciplined careers with an emphasis on routine and physical fitness. Similarly, there can be issues for both when faced with the need to move on and find a new career and George feels that, like soldiers, racehorses are entitled to prove that they can succeed in another role. George believes that with a capable and confident rider, along with patience, many ex-racehorses can prove their versatility and succeed in a new life.

George says “Chris, who is now 17, is a gentle giant; my daughter Kelsie was just 15 years old when she first took him hunting. He is genuine and straight forward whereas Monkey still lives everyday like it is his last, is brave and would give anything a try.”

Chris is often partnered by George’s wife Debbie who has taken part in RoR parades, acted as chaperone to the family’s racing ponies and enjoyed learning new skills like showjumping but sadly, like the rest of the nation, Chris and Monki are currently enduring an enforced Covid lockdown holiday spending time out in the field with the Beilby family’s other equine friends.

ror.org.uk

WHERE ARE THEY NOW 23

MORE THAN A VENUE, A CANVAS

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

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

R AC E 3 2.25PM T H E ‘ M Y O D D S B O O S T ’ O N B E T FA I R SW I N L E Y C H A S E (A LIMITED HANDICAP) ( C L A S S 1 ) ( L I S T E D R AC E ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

About three miles (2m 7f 180yds) (4,700 metres) For five yrs old and upwards Total race value £52500. Owners Prize Money. Winner £22880; Second £9392; Third £4699; Fourth £2347; Fifth £1176; Sixth £588.

(Penalty Value £29898.75) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

See page 65 for conditions of this race.

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

No Horse

1

REGAL ENCORE (IRE) (63)

B g King’s Theatre (IRE) - Go On Eileen (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 13 Weight: 11 10 Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW Breeder: Mr John Browne hoops, EMERALD GREEN cap, WHITE star.

Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk Form: P13-1P3 CD

Jockey Richie McLernon

HHH Four-time C&D winner, including this race in 2018; looked as good as ever when scoring on soft ground here in October and when placed off today’s mark here (heavy) in December; respected.

Official BHA Rating 150

2

SUB LIEUTENANT (IRE) (63)

B g Brian Boru - Satellite Dancer (IRE) (Satco (FR)) Owner: Ms G. Howell Horse Age: 12 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Georgie Howell, Tenbury Wells Colours: YELLOW, MAUVE epaulets.

Breeder: Edmond Coleman Form: 2/04-024

Tabitha Worsley (5)

HH High-class chaser in his prime for Henry de Bromhead and outran 66-1 odds when very respectable fourth over C&D (heavy) on stable debut two months ago; finished behind Regal Encore that day, though, and subsequent 1lb drop is not enough to tempt; cheekpieces (off last time) refitted.

Official BHA Rating 146

3

N O TA C H A N C E ( I R E ) ( 3 5 )

B g Mahler - Ballybrowney Hall (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) Owner: David J S Sewell & Tim Leadbeater Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: PINK and PURPLE check, Breeder: Miss Lisa Pyne PINK sleeves, BLACK cap.

Sponsor: Hare Group Ltd Form: 2152-11 D

Tom Cannon

HHH Progressive 7yo who is 3-6 over fences after winning Grade 3 marathon at Warwick (3m5f, soft) five weeks ago; 7lb higher here but today’s drop back in trip shouldn’t be a problem and he might still have potential; also engaged 2.40 Haydock (first preference).

Official BHA Rating 146

4 C LO U DY G L E N ( I R E ) ( 4 2 )

B g Cloudings (IRE) - Ribble (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Mr Trevor Hemmings Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Colours: EMERALD GREEN and YELLOW Breeder: Gleadhill House Stud Ltd (quartered), WHITE sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Trust Inns Limited Form: 2F6-150

Tom Scudamore

HH Produced career-best performance when winning Southern National at Fontwell (3m3f, heavy) very comfortably on seasonal debut in November and subsequent fifth in London National at Sandown (3m5f, soft) was arguably a better run than his finishing position suggests; well beaten in Welsh National since, though, and may find others better handicapped here.

Official BHA Rating 142

5

J E R RY S B AC K ( I R E ) ( 2 8 )

B g Jeremy (USA) - Get A Few Bob Back (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Michael Rowland YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Form: 223/03-3 D

HHH Yet to add to his 50-1 beginners’ chase win in December 2018 but quite lightly raced in the meantime; kept on well for third off today’s mark here (2m5f, soft) on last month’s seasonal debut and is now 1lb lower than when placed behind Regal Encore in Listed C&D handicap last winter; shortlisted.

Official BHA Rating 142

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

Richard Johnson

3 6

NEWTIDE (IRE) (91)

Br g Getaway (GER) - C’Est Fantastique (IRE) (Hernando (FR)) Owner: Lady Dulverton Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 1 Trainer: Kim Bailey, Cheltenham Colours: YELLOW, EMERALD GREEN Breeder: Allan & Mrs Chambers epaulets and armlets.

Sponsor: Kim Bailey Racing Ltd Form: 41/116-3 D

David Bass

HHH Fortunate to win Grade 2 novice chase at Wetherby (3m, soft) last February but ran well when third (albeit tired and well held in the end) on seasonal/handicap chase debut at Haydock (3m1f, soft) in November and remains lightly raced over fences; had wind op soon after latest run; enters calculations.

Official BHA Rating 141

7

CO B O LO B O ( F R ) ( 2 8)

Br g Maresca Sorrento (FR) - Nanou des Brosses (FR) (Saint Cyrien (FR)) Owner: Anne, Harriet & Lucinda Bond Horse Age: 9 Weight: 10 12 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: PURPLE, PINK seams, Breeder: Mr Michel Lecoq armlets and cap.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 15P-212 D

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHH Not always one to rely on heavily but has performed very well on all three starts this season and followed December’s clear win at Exeter (3m, heavy; first-time cheekpieces) with creditable second over C&D (soft) last month; today’s rise in grade demands more from him, though.

Official BHA Rating 138

8

M U S I C A L S L AV E ( I R E ) ( 2 1 )

B g Getaway (GER) - Inghwung (Kayf Tara) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Simon Walford

Tom O’Brien

Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 11 Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, RED cap.

Form: 0132-5U

HHHH Finished well when clear second in valuable novices’ handicap at Uttoxeter (3m, heavy) last March and would probably have preferred a stronger pace when close fifth at Newbury (2m4f, good) on reappearance in November; unseated rider on latest outing and seemingly overlooked by Richard Johnson today but could still have untapped potential at around 3m.

Official BHA Rating 137

9

HILL SIXTEEN (GB) (63)

B g Court Cave (IRE) - Chasers Chic (Karinga Bay) Owner: Million in Mind Partnership Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Breeder: Mrs Audrey Goodwin Sponsor: Goffs UK Ltd

Sam Twiston-Davies

Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 11 Colours: EMERALD GREEN and RED diabolo, WHITE sleeves, EMERALD GREEN diamonds, WHITE cap, RED diamond.

Form: 412-11P D BF

HH Started off for new stable with two wins in November (2m3f chase/3m hurdle) and is evidently versatile regarding trip/ ground but he was disappointing joint-favourite in Tommy Whittle at Haydock (3m1f, heavy) in December and needs to prove he can cope with a mark this high; tongue-tie added.

Official BHA Rating 137

1 0 YA L LTA R I ( G B ) ( 2 8 ) 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

Daryl Jacob

Horse Age: 10 Weight: 10 9 Colours: PURPLE, WHITE star and star on cap.

Form: 3/03-P44 D

HHHHH Well-handicapped on form from novice chase campaign in 2018-19 (including C&D third in Reynoldstown on this card) and lightly raced since; behind Cobolobo when fourth in C&D handicap (soft) last month but caught the eye making good headway under patient ride and it will be interesting to see whether connections opt for a return to much more prominent tactics this time.

Official BHA Rating 135

11 KAPCORSE (FR) (84)

Br g Kapgarde (FR) - Angesse (FR) (Indian River (FR)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Yannick Fouin & Frederic Duvivier YELLOW hoops, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 1/0110/-0

Harry Cobden

HHH 2-4 over fences, the latter win gained by 10l at Newbury (2m6f, soft) in December 2018; made low-key return from 644-day absence when midfield in this season’s edition of that race but positives can still be drawn from that performance and he remains unexposed as a chaser.

Official BHA Rating 135

1 2 C A P TA I N C H A O S ( I R E ) ( 3 5 )

Ch g Golan (IRE) - Times Have Changed (IRE) (Safety Catch (USA)) Owner: Mike and Eileen Newbould Horse Age: 10 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: BLACK, WHITE Cross of Breeder: Conor Hickey Sponsor: The Air Ambulance Lorraine, sleeves and cap.

Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 21-PP04 D

Harry Skelton

HHH Thorough stayer who returned to form and made bold bid from the front when fourth in Warwick marathon won by Notachance (3m5f, soft) last month; kept to left-handed tracks since Market Rasen novice win in 2018 (edged left at his fences there) but remains on a workable mark.

Official BHA Rating 135

R A C I N G PA G E S

27

3 Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 9. Blinkers worn by No. 12. Tongue Strap worn by No. 1, 2, 6, 7.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 7. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 6.

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

2020: BALLYOPTIC (IRE) 10 11 10 Sam Twiston-Davies 8-1 (Nigel Twiston-Davies) 8 ran

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

ST ND

TIME

RD TH

RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

4-1 Notachance (IRE), 5-1 Jerrysback (IRE), 7-1 Regal Encore (IRE), 8-1 Cobolobo (FR), Musical Slave (IRE), Yalltari (GB), 10-1 Newtide (IRE), Kapcorse (FR), 12-1 Captain Chaos (IRE), 14-1 Hill Sixteen (GB), 20-1 Cloudy Glen (IRE), 25-1 Sub Lieutenant (IRE)

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

2 8 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.

RACE 2

Sodexo is the world’s largest services provider and the 19th largest employer worldwide. In the UK and Ireland its 34,000 people deliver quality of life services to clients at some 1,850 locations in the corporate, healthcare, education, leisure, justice and defence sectors.

With an annual turnover of over £1bn, Sodexo delivers a range of services ranging from catering and hospitality, cleaning, reception to asset management, security, laboratory and grounds maintenance services, enabling clients to focus on their core business. To find out more visit www.uk.sodexo.com

RACES 3, 4 & 5

Betfair is proud to sponsor the Betfair Ascot Chase Raceday and invite you with them on the road to Cheltenham. Today marks the second milestone in the journey to The Festival, when you bet £20 on the Betfair Exchange across any of today’s runners , Betfair will add £10 to your Cheltenham Free Bet Pot. Find out more at Betfair.com. We hope you have a fantastic day.

RACE 6

Berkshire Vision is a charity that has supported blind and partially sighted children and adults across Berkshire for over 110 years.

They provide a wide-range of services designed to ensure visually impaired people have everything they need to remain as independent as possible, including telephone befriending, employability support and tech buddies to enable those with sight loss to make the best use of technology and accessibility features. They also organise activities to keep members connected from the comfort and safety of their own homes plus social events and adapted sports. For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit www.berkshirevision.org.uk

RACE 7

Dingley’s Promise is a Berkshire-based charity whose mission is to deliver life changing support to under 5’s with additional needs & disabilities and their families. They are committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of their perceived ability, is given equal opportunity to develop and thrive. Working across three dedicated centres, their specialist Early Years practitioners offer Learning Through Play programmes for children with special educational needs and disability (SEND), tailored to each individual child’s needs.

They work to transition children to mainstream early years settings wherever possible, using their specialist knowledge to build wider inclusion. For more information, to donate or get involved, visit www.dingley.org.uk

RACE 7

The European Breeders’ Fund was established in 1983 and is funded predominantly by contributions from stallion owners. In Great Britain, the British EBF have provided over £38,000,000 of additional prize money to the racing industry. ebfstallions.com A S C OT S P O N S O R S 2 9

OWNERS FOCUS

CONNECTIONS OF CYRNAME AFTER HIS SUCCESS IN THE 2019 ASCOT CHASE - CLICK THE PHOTO BELOW TO SEE A REPLAY OF HIS IMPRESSIVE DISPLAY IN THE GRADE 1

www.roa.co.uk As Cyrname takes his place at the start of Saturday’s Ascot Chase his owner will be watching on nervously from her Sunningdale home. Samantha de la Hey is passionate about her horses and does not find watching them race easy: “I would rather not watch but I feel I owe it to the horse and make myself.”

Samantha has spent her life surrounded by racing, her father Stuart trained from their Somerset home and her mother’s horses ran in similar colours to those that Cyrname will sport this Saturday.

It was whilst growing up that Samantha would first encounter a young jockey named Paul Nicholls - Paul used to ride for her father - and he was the first person she called when, together with her husband Johnny, they decided to become owners 11 years ago.

Paul had a mare called Far from Blonde in the yard and their first foray into ownership brought about a couple of minor placings at tracks such as Exeter and Wincanton before the mare was retired to stud. Since then, a partnership with the Ditcheat based Champion Trainer has seen many more highs along the way.

“One of the greatest highlights was when Cyrname won the 2019 running of the Ascot Chase, so many friends were there to celebrate as Ascot had run the Denman Chase that had re-arranged following the cancelation of Newbury. It was such a memorable day with an incredible atmosphere.”

The de la Heys’ have enjoyed Cheltenham Festival hurdling success with Diego du Charmil but Samantha says “our passion is chasing. We tend to buy a certain type with the help of Paul and agents such as Tom Malone, Anthony Bromley and Claude Charlet. They will normally start off hurdling for their education, but the end goal is to go chasing.”

30 OWNERS FOCUS

As for being an owner during these unprecedented times Samantha says “we have been very lucky and have been able to go racing when owners were permitted on-course. We also have horses with Richard Hannon who kindly ran them at Ascot so that we could attend as we reside in the same zone. The hardest part about watching from home is not knowing how your horse is if it doesn’t finish in the first three as the television footage tends to follow the winner but the trainers that we have horses with try to keep us updated as much as is possible.”

“Horses have been a godsend during these times, they have given us something to follow.”

Like so many who have missed out on attending the races over the past months Samantha looks forward to the days when they return. “Racing is enjoyed by everyone, families and friends together and enjoying the day, win, loose or draw.

We have often invited friends to the races who have never been, and they have all thoroughly enjoyed it and returned time and time again – young or old, everyone enjoys the races.”

OWNERS FOCUS

31

ASCOT 2020/21 JUMPS SEASON – 10 WINNERS TO FOLLOW AT THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Paisley Park – Grade 1 Porsche Long Walk Hurdle, 19th December The outstanding staying hurdler of the past two seasons, Paisley Park landed a second Porsche Long Walk Hurdle in December and will head to the Festival bidding to win back his crown in the Stayers’ Hurdle. Emma Lavelle’s stable star is likely to renew rivalries with Thyme Hill, the pair having served up a thriller at Ascot as shown by clicking on the image to the right.

Imperial Aura – Grade 2 Chanelle Pharma 1965 Chase, 21st November Kim Bailey’s imposing eight-year-old is already a Festival winner having won the Novices’ Handicap Chase last year and he has progressed to become a top-class chaser this winter. His season so far includes a commanding victory in the Grade 2 Chanelle Pharma 1965 Chase at Ascot and he is the leading British fancy for the Ryanair Chase.

First Flow – Grade 1 Matchbook Betting Exchange Clarence House Chase, 23rd January & Coral Hurst Park Handicap Chase, 21st November One of the rising stars of the winter, First Flow confirmed his place at the top of the two-mile chase division when winning the Matchbook Betting Exchange Clarence House Chase for Kim Bailey. That was a sixth straight win, a streak that also includes this season’s Coral Hurst Park Chase at Ascot, and he will now take on the likes of Altior and Chacun Pour Soi in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

Song For Someone – Grade 2 Coral Hurdle, 21st November The leading light of Tom Symonds’ burgeoning stable, Song For Someone has proved himself to be a high-class hurdler this year by easily seeing off Call Me Lord in the Grade 2 Coral Hurdle at Ascot before getting the better of Silver Streak in the International Hurdle. Connections may wait for Aintree but if he takes his chance in the Champion Hurdle he will be more than a lively outsider.

Roksana – Grade 2 Matchbook Betting Podcast Mares’ Hurdle, 23rd January Having run a career best to finish third in the Porsche Long Walk Hurdle, Roksana returned to Ascot for a facile victory in the Grade 2 Matchbook Betting Podcast Mares’ Hurdle in January. Next month she could attempt to win a second Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham or head for the Stayers’ Hurdle with either looking realistic ambitions for Dan Skelton’s classy mare.

3 2 1 0 W I N N E R S TO FO L LOW

Metier - Play The Coral ‘Racing Super Series’ ‘Introductory’ Hurdle, 20th November Unbeaten in three starts over hurdles, Metier is one of the top British novice hurdlers and easily won an Introductory Hurdle at Ascot in November before winning the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown. He is the shortest priced British horse in the betting for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and will go there with a strong chance for Harry Fry. Chantry House - Ascot Racecourse Supports Safer Gambling Week Novices’ Chase, 20th November Third in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle last season, Chantry House made a taking debut over fences for Nicky Henderson in November when beating Up The Straight by 26 lengths. He fluffed his lines at Cheltenham next time out on testing ground but got back to winning ways at Wetherby on Wednesday and could run a big race in the Marsh Novices’ Chase on the Thursday.

Knappers Hill - Enter ITV7 Tonight Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race, 18th December The Listed National Hunt Flat race run at the December meeting is often won by a nice horse with Supasundae and Shutthefrontdoor among recent winners. This year it went to Knappers Hill for Paul Nicholls and if he runs in the Champion Bumper at the Festival he could emerge as one of the leading British hopes.

Tritonic - bet365 Juvenile Hurdle, 23rd January A runner-up at Royal Ascot last summer, Tritonic was highly-rated on the Flat and made the perfect start to life over timber when winning on hurdling debut at the January meeting. He is now prominent in the betting for the Triumph Hurdle and Alan King’s exciting four-year-old might just be able to trouble the strong hand held by the Irish in the race.

Allart – Grade 2 Sky Bet Noel Novices’ Chase, 18th December Fifth in last year’s Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, Allart was foot perfect on chasing debut at Ascot to win the Grade 2 Sky Bet Noel Novices’ Chase in December (which you can see with the replay on the right) before falling in a similar race at Haydock. He will need to brush up his jumping before Cheltenham but Nicky Henderson’s seven-year-old could yet play a part in either the Arkle or the Marsh Novices’ Chase.

1 0 W I N N E R S TO FO L LOW 3 3

R AC E 4 3.00PM T H E B E T FA I R C H E LT E N H A M F R E E B E T P OT BU I L D E R H A N D I CA P H U R D L E R AC E ( C L A S S 2 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

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 £31500. Owners Prize Money. Winner £14963; Second £4999; Third £2501; Fourth £1251; Fifth £624; Sixth £312.

(Penalty Value £19706.40) Weights raised 6lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

See page 65 for conditions of this race.

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

No Horse

1

L’A M I S E R G E ( I R E ) ( 3 4 5 )

B g King’s Theatre (IRE) - La Zingarella (IRE) (Phardante (FR)) Owner: Mr Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Horse Age: 11 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Colours: EMERALD GREEN, DARK GREEN sleeves, Breeder: P. Ryan DARK GREEN and EMERALD GREEN quartered cap.

Sponsor: Ptarmigan Media Limited Form: 01/0/20PCD

Jockey Daryl Jacob

HHH Well-treated on his Grade 1-winning form; however, often finds little under pressure and looks a risky proposition on belated reappearance; absent since pulling up in the 2020 Stayers’ Hurdle.

Official BHA Rating 150

2

PILEON (IRE) (89)

B g Yeats (IRE) - Heath Heaven (Alflora (IRE)) Owner: Tim Syder & Martin St Quinton Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Mr P. Hennessy Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

Richard Johnson

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

Form: 4112-4P D

HHHH Didn’t take to chasing in the autumn; progressive over hurdles and went agonisingly close in the Martin Pipe race (2m4f, soft; collared on line) at last year’s Cheltenham Festival; interesting back in this sphere.

Official BHA Rating 143

3

C H T I B A L KO ( F R ) ( 4 2 )

Br g Balko (FR) - Ina Scoop (FR) (Murmure (FR)) Owner: Mr D. G. Carrington Trainer: Donald McCain, Cholmondeley Breeder: Didier Guyot and Pierre Guyot Sponsor: Proactive Personnel Limited

William Kennedy

Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 3 Colours: PURPLE, WHITE stars, diabolo on sleeves and star on cap.

Form: 124-615

HH Most wins over 1m7f, the most recent at Haydock on penultimate start; has won over 2m3f at Bangor but this stiffer test may prove too much, especially as he looks weighted to the hilt.

Official BHA Rating 141

4 A L B E R T ’ S B AC K ( G B ) ( 3 )

B g Champs Elysees - Neath (Rainbow Quest (USA)) Owner: Golden Ratio & J Blackburn Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 3 Trainer: Michael Easterby, Sheriff Hutton Colours: LIGHT BLUE, RED Cross of Breeder: Amelia Field Lorraine, RED cap.

Sponsor: Stittenham Farms, Sheridan Fabrications Ltd Form: 325-11F D

David Bass

HHHH Record of 4-5 in completed starts over hurdles, including wins at Wetherby (2m, soft) and Haydock (2m3f, heavy) this term; early faller at Wetherby on Wednesday; open to further progress granted a clear round. Official BHA Rating 141

5

S T O L E N S I LV E R ( F R ) ( 8 4 )

Sam

Twiston-Davies Gr g Lord du Sud (FR) - Change Partner (FR) (Turtle Island (IRE)) Owner: Walters Plant Hire & Potter Group Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: DARK BLUE and WHITE diabolo, EMERALD Breeder: S.C. Snig Elevage GREEN and WHITE check sleeves, WHITE cap, RED star.

Sponsor: Potter Group Form: 10P-332 BF

HHH Grade 2 novice hurdle winner; has failed to improve over fences this season, beaten favourite at Bangor most recently; ran below-par in the County Hurdle when last seen in this sphere.

Official BHA Rating 140

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

4 6

KID COMMANDO (GB) (63)

B g Robin des Champs (FR) - Banjaxed Girl (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Chapman, Hanger, Kingston & Langford Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Colours: BLACK, WHITE braces, YELLOW Breeder: Little Lodge Farm & Rahinston Farm sleeves, BLACK stars, YELLOW cap, WHITE star.

Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk Form: 513-16P C

Richie McLernon

HHH Form this season includes two starts over 1m7f at this venue, making all to beat Malaya in October (soft) but pulled up last time; had wind surgery since; probably not crying out for a return to 2m3f.

Official BHA Rating 140

7

K AT E S O N ( G B ) ( 2 8 )

Gr g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Silver Kate (IRE) (Insan (USA)) Owner: DMRichardsRobertsChurchwardW-Williams Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 1 Trainer: Tom Lacey, Woolhope Colours: RED, WHITE hoop, striped Breeder: D. M. Richards sleeves, BLACK and WHITE hooped cap.

Sponsor: Plusbac Form: 542-013 D

Jonathan Burke

HHH In good form since fitted with cheekpieces, scoring narrowly on soft ground at Aintree then third (one place behind Arrivederci) over this C&D; has frame possibilities in the retained headgear.

Official BHA Rating 139

8

ARRIVEDERCI (FR) (28)

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

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 21-1F02

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHH Creditable second in Grade 3 handicap over C&D (soft) four weeks ago, bouncing back from a disappointing effort in 1m7f contest here the time before; strong contender based on latest run and isn’t fully exposed. Official BHA Rating 139

9

M A L AYA ( F R ) ( 4 2 )

B m Martaline - Clarte d’Or (FR) (Kendor (FR)) Owner: Mrs Johnny de la Hey Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mr Athanase Poulopoulos Sponsor: Morson Group

Harry Cobden

Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 12 Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoops, armlets and cap.

Form: 602-204 C

HHH Has contested this race for the last two years, finishing fourth in 2019 and well-held second in 2020; on a competitive mark and has each-way hopes back at this course.

Official BHA Rating 136

10 SHANNON BRIDGE (IRE) (39)

Ch g Flemensfirth (USA) - Bridgequarter Lady (IRE) (King’s Ride) Owner: Mr M. Boothright Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: BLACK, Breeder: Kevin Neville Sponsor: Ladbrokes, PURPLE sleeves, RED spots.

The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire) Form: 1F-0P21

Harry Skelton

HHH Took well to new headgear back over hurdles at Wetherby (2m3f, heavy; driven clear) last month; now 5lb higher in a stronger race but may have more to offer in the retained blinkers.

Official BHA Rating 133

1 1 K E PA G G E ( I R E ) ( 3 5 )

B g Getaway (GER) - Miracle Lady (Bob’s Return (IRE)) Owner: Mrs Sarah Ling Horse Age: 7 Weight: 10 9 Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington Colours: WHITE, DARK BLUE stripe, Breeder: Gareth Adair striped sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: F/111-46 D

Tom Scudamore

HHH 3-3 last season, making a promising start to rules career; bubble has been burst with two handicap defeats (2m5f/3m1f) this term and the bare form suggests another 2lb drop won’t make much difference.

Official BHA Rating 133

1 2 DA N S L E V E N T ( F R ) ( 2 8 )

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 8 Colours: PINK, PURPLE epaulets, striped sleeves, PURPLE and PINK hooped cap.

Form: 30/U2-14 D

HHH Recorded a narrow win at Hereford (third run for current yard) on seasonal debut, then wasn’t far behind Arrivederci and Kateson when fourth in C&D contest; has a chance of picking up minor prize-money.

Official BHA Rating 132

R A C I N G PA G E S

35

4 1 3 G L A D I AT E U R A L L E N ( F R ) ( 2 8 )

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Une Epoque (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Mrs Jane Williams Horse Age: 5 Weight: 10 7 Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Colours: ORANGE, BLACK star and Breeder: Mr Bruno Vagne star on cap.

Sponsor: Nick & Jane Williams Racing Form: 231 C

Chester Williams (5)

HHHHH Drew clear for an emphatic success in novice event here (2m5f, soft) four weeks ago, opening account at the third attempt; the least exposed contender and he’s open to plenty of further improvement; highly respected.

Official BHA Rating 131

1 4 G O O D M A N PAT ( I R E ) ( 5 3 )

B g Gold Well - Basically Supreme (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Mr David Sewell Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 6 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: YELLOW, RED spots.

Breeder: Larry Byrne Form: 04-0642 Sponsor: Hare Group Ltd

Tom Bellamy

HHH Steadily finding his form since returning to hurdles this season, close second at Newbury (2m4f, soft) most recently; the third boosted that form when winning Grade 2 novice next time; possibilities.

Official BHA Rating 130

15 KAIZER (GB) (13)

Ch g Nathaniel (IRE) - Perse (Rock of Gibraltar (IRE)) Owner: Mrs Elizabeth Ferguson Horse Age: 6 Weight: 10 0 Trainer: Alistair Whillans, Hawick Colours: LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE stars on Breeder: Mrs James Wigan sleeves, LIGHT BLUE cap, ORANGE star.

Sponsor: Sport Of Kings Classic Racewear Form: 431532 BF

Craig Nichol

HH Nabbed in the final strides when favourite for Pertemps qualifier at Musselburgh last time, running a good race on that first attempt over 3m2f; this marked drop back in trip looks a negative.

Official BHA Rating 123

1 6 T H I B A U LT ( G B ) ( 1 9 ) B g Kayf Tara - Seemarye (Romany Rye) Owner: Farm Fencing and All Seasons Racing Trainer: Adam West, Epsom Breeder: The Glanvilles Stud

Richard Patrick

Horse Age: 8 Weight: 10 0 Colours: BLACK, ORANGE triple diamond, striped sleeves and diamond on cap.

Form: 5311U1

HH Has a good strike-rate for current stable; won AW jumpers’ bumper at Lingfield last time; however, has done his winning in Class 4 and looks vulnerable back up in grade.

Official BHA Rating 123

Tongue Strap worn by No. 6, 7, 9, 11, 16. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 5. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 10.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 7. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 6.

2020: NORDANO (GER) 4 10 0 Aidan Coleman 8-1 (Neil King) 15 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT ST

D I S TA N C E

ND RD TH

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

TIME

4 RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

6-1 Gladiateur Allen (FR), 7-1 Arrivederci (FR), 10-1 Pileon (IRE), Albert’s Back (GB), Malaya (FR), Dans Le Vent (FR), Good Man Pat (IRE), 12-1 Shannon Bridge (IRE), 14-1 Stolen Silver (FR), Kid Commando (GB), Kateson (GB), 16-1 L’Ami Serge (IRE), Kepagge (IRE), 20-1 Chti Balko (FR), Kaizer (GB), Thibault (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

37

THE BETFAIR ASCOT CHASE

CUE CARD RECORDED HIS SECOND BETFAIR ASCOT CHASE WIN AT THE AGE OF ELEVEN-YEARS-OLD IN 2017 - CLICK HERE TO SEE A REPLAY OF THE POPULAR SUCCESS

Established in 1995, the Betfair Ascot Chase is the final top-level contest of the Jumps season at Ascot and the last Grade 1 race in the British calendar until the Cheltenham Festival in March.

Run over two miles and five furlongs, it often collects a variety of high-class horses including specialists at the mid-range trip, staying chasers with one eye on Gold Cup preparation and speedier types stepping up in distance to assess options ahead of the major spring meetings.

Indeed, the very first running of the race went to Martha’s Son in 1995 who had won that season’s Victor Chandler Chase over the minimum distance and showed his versatility trip wise when winning by seven lengths, extending his winning run to nine straight races for trainer Tim Forster.

One Man was another versatile top-level campaigner to win the Ascot Chase in 1998 having landed the Hennessy in 1994 and the King George twice in 1995 and 1996. After his success at Ascot he dropped back in trip to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase that season as a sprightly ten-year-old.

Teeton Mill also won the King George before landing this race a year later in 1999, Venetia Williams’ only winner to date. Tiutchev was a first winner for Nicky Henderson in 2001 and he became the first dual-winner in 2003 when cruising home under AP McCoy for new trainer Martin Pipe. That formidably famous trainer-jockey pairing had similarly been successful a year before with Tresor De Mai. Pipe had a fabulous record in the Ascot Chase and would go on to win it in 2005 and 2006 as well with It Takes Time and Our Vic. 3 8 T H E B E T FA I R A S C OT C H A S E

Since the introduction of the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in 2005, the race has developed into a natural target for those who specialise at the mid-range trip. Cue Card remains the best example of that as another popular dual-winner with Joe Tizzard riding him to victory in 2013 before that combination followed up in the Ryanair Chase a month later. Cue Card was again victorious under Paddy Brennan as an eleven-year-old in 2017 and second a year later to Waiting Patiently.

Henderson took his tally of Ascot Chases to three with the Jimmy Nesbitt-owned Riverside Theatre winning the race twice in 2011 and 2012, following up at the Cheltenham Festival after the second of those victories.

Prior to that, the late 2000s was a memorable era for the race starting with victory for Monet’s Garden in 2007. Twelve months later the dashing grey was second to the incomparable Kauto Star who was having his final preparation for that year’s Gold Cup. Paul Nicholls’ superstar remains the highest rated chaser to appear at Ascot in the modern era and he was an effortless winner under Ruby Walsh.

Voy Por Ustedes won for Alan King in 2009 and in 2010 Monet’s Garden rolled back the years for Nicky Richards to claim victory at the remarkable age of 12 under Barry Geraghty. No horse that old has since won a Grade 1 Jumps race in Britain.

In recent years, Silviniaco Conti and Cyrname have been very high-class winners for Nicholls, who is the joint leading trainer in the race with Pipe, both having saddled four winners.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW CYRNAME’S EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE IN THE 2019 RENEWAL, AS HE PROVIDED PAUL NICHOLLS WITH A FOURTH VICTORY IN THE GRADE 1

T H E B E T FA I R A S C OT C H A S E 3 9

£10 £7

EACH

£14

£4

The World's Finest Racecourse Has A Shop

£55

Shop online at ascot.co.uk

£16

£4

£3

BUILD YOUR FREE BET POT FOR CHELTENHAM Bet £20 across UK & Irish racing, Get £10 free bet on the Cheltenham Festival.

Runs every Saturday. £10

£10

£10

£10

FREE BET POT

Please Gamble Responsibly

Min £20 in Exchange bets (min odds 1.5 applies to back bets) on Saturday races, excludes antepost bets. Max £10 free bet per qualifying day, awarded 15/03, valid on Exchange markets. Betfair Rewards ‘Basic’ customers excluded. T&Cs apply

R AC E 5 3.35PM T H E B E T FA I R AS COT ST E E P L E C H AS E ( C L A S S 1 ) ( G R A D E 1 ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about five furlongs (2m 5f 8yds) (4,200 metres) For five yrs old and upwards Total race value £100000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £43580; Second £17890; Third £8950; Fourth £4470; Fifth £2240. (Penalty Value £56950) A See page 65 for conditions of this race.

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

No Horse

1

BENNYS KING (IRE) (28)

B g Beneficial - Hellofafaithful (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)) Owner: Mezzone Family Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Colours: RED, WHITE sleeves, Breeder: Mr Shane McGuckin BLACK stars, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: CMS Kidderminster Form: 152-512 C D

Jockey Harry Skelton

HHHHH Largely progressive in handicap chases; showed smart form (RPR 162) here the last twice, winning by 6l on heavy ground then second to Dashel Drasher off top weight; gets a 2lb pull with that rival for just over 1l; Ascot record is now 212; brings a solid profile to this higher grade.

Official BHA Rating 157

2

CYRNAME (FR) (56)

B g Nickname (FR) - Narquille (FR) (Passing Sale (FR)) Owner: Mrs Johnny de la Hey Horse Age: 9 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoops, Breeder: Mr S. Follain, Mr E. Lecoiffier et al armlets and cap.

Sponsor: Morson Group Form: 1/12F-1P CD

Harry Cobden

HHHH Stellar chaser who was very impressive in this race two seasons ago; beaten when falling at the final fence last year but bounced right back in the Charlie Hall on reappearance and his subsequent King George effort was too bad to be true (racing off the pace probably played some part); best ridden forwardly; acts on soft; should be hard to beat if he’s in top form with cheekpieces added.

Official BHA Rating 172

3

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

B g Passing Glance - So Long (Nomadic Way (USA)) Owner: Mrs B Tully and Mr R Lock Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Jeremy Scott, Dulverton Colours: PURPLE, YELLOW star, Breeder: Mrs C. C. Scott RED sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Sponsor: Brendon Powerwashers Form: 2U1-311 CD

Matt Griffiths

HHHH Posted front-running wins in graduation chase and Class 2 handicap over C&D (heavy/soft) the last twice, despite tending to jump left; gamely beat Bennys King last time; has an attractive profile, given that he’s unbeaten at Ascot (3-3) and looks open to further progress.

Official BHA Rating 158

4 M A S T E R TO M M Y T U C K E R ( G B ) ( 4 2 ) B g Kayf Tara - No Need For Alarm (Romany Rye) Owner: Mr A. G. Fear Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: A. G. Fear Sponsor: Morson Group

Daryl Jacob

Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 7 Colours: ORANGE, BLUE and CHOCOLATE hoops, ORANGE cap.

Form: F-21101

HHHH Jumping has sometimes been an issue but he possesses a big engine; bagged Grade 2 honours at Kempton (2m4f) six weeks ago, albeit helped by the early departure of Imperial Aura and despite making a mess of the final fence; now 6-8 in completed starts; acts on soft; front-runner; mistakes aside, he’s very talented and he looks set for a fascinating first clash with stablemate Cyrname.

Official BHA Rating 159

5

R I D E R S O N T H E STO R M ( I R E ) (4 2 )

Br g Scorpion (IRE) - Endless Moments (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) Owner: Carl Hinchy and Mark Scott Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Colours: LIGHT BLUE, ROYAL BLUE Breeder: Tom Taaffe spots and sleeves, hooped cap.

Sponsor: Agetur (UK) Ltd Form: 111F-33 CD

HHH Somewhat fortunate to win this contest 12 months ago, as he was helped by Cyrname running below-par and Traffic Fluide falling at the last fence (left clear); has failed to show his form in his two runs this term, latest behind Master Tommytucker at Kempton; bit to prove.

Official BHA Rating 155

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

Sam Twiston-Davies

5 Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 2. Tongue Strap worn by No. 2.

Stewards Note: CYRNAME: Following its run on 26/12/2020 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

2020: RIDERS ONTHE STORM (IRE) 7 11 7 Sam Twiston-Davies 7-2 (Nigel Twiston-Davies) 4 ran

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

ST ND

TIME

RD TH

RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

4-5 Cyrname (FR), 11-4 Master Tommytucker (GB), 13-2 Dashel Drasher (GB), 9-1 Bennys King (IRE), 16-1 Riders Onthe Storm (IRE)

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

R A C I N G PA G E S

43

ASCOT MEETS.....

Alice Plunkett The racing industry has possibly one of the most diverse range of roles and opportunities of any industry. Whether it’s the athletic pursuit of being a jockey, the groundskeeping knowledge needed to tend to the courses, accountancy skills or design flair in the office, there really is something for everyone.

Over the coming months we will investigate the different roles across the industry and meet the personalities who have turned their passion into their career. We start off by meeting one of the popular faces of ITV racing, Alice Plunkett.

Alice’s passion for racing was ignited on her 16th birthday. As a treat, her mother organised for her to ride out for trainer Roddy Armytage along with Roddy’s children Marcus, Grand National jockey turned journalist, and Gee, one of the leading lady jockeys of her time who went on to become A P McCoys’ personal assistant.

It is a memory she recalls fondly to this day: “I was captured by the buzz of the yard, the lads and lasses going about their work and the absolute thrill of riding a racehorse for the first time.”

This was to be the start of things to come and after a handful of rides on her mother’s point-to-pointer, Bold King’s Hussar, while still a teenager Alice found herself heading to Liverpool as she had qualified for the Aintree Foxhunters.

“I travelled to Aintree the day before the race and stabled overnight. I was 19 years old and remember walking out onto the course on the morning of the race and just thinking wow.”

“I recall being interviewed by Richard Pitman that day and as I was the newcomer he asked if I had even ridden on a racecourse before.”

A SCOT M E E T S . . . . . 4 5

ASCOT MEETS.....

Alice Plunkett (continued) Alice was an accomplished event rider and had already represented Great Britain in the junior European Championships, so she did not doubt her own ability to tackle the imposing Foxhunter fences and finished in 14th. To this day she is still the only woman to have ridden around Aintree and Badminton.

Having left university, she chose to follow her passion for journalism and her professional career started with the Racing Post. “I was very lucky and was offered a position by the Racing Post to become their French reporter, which would mean basing myself in Paris”, she said. Sadly, this was not to be as due to a family bereavement Alice decided to stay closer to home.

A twist of fate and a certain amount of luck saw Alice become a runner for Cheltenham Festival radio which then led to her having her own show.

Alice was then spotted by Channel 4 and become one of their presenters in 2001.

Alice says: “I had to work hard but I have had some incredible opportunities. I often get asked if I prefer racing or eventing and I have to say racing. It would be hard to choose my favourite Ascot memory, I wouldn’t be able to choose between Cue Card winning the Ascot Chase or Frankel winning on Champions Day.”

46 A SCOT M E E T S . . . . .

ALICE DESCRIBES CUE CARD WINNING THE ASCOT CHASE AS BEING ONE OF HER FAVOURITE ASCOT MEMORIES

At home Alice is a mum to four children and wife to one of the UK’s leading event riders, William Fox-Pitt. Juggling is a term many working parents use but Alice is thankful to her family and team at home who make it possible for her to leave on a Friday afternoon so she can prepare for Saturday’s racing.

Having built relationships with many yards over the years, Alice is able to run a WhatsApp liaison group where she contacts connections on a Friday to get the inside information she needs to share with the public on the day.

“I was given some amazing advice by Clare Balding that I have always followed, 100% research, 60% output – meaning that I do as much research into the runners as is possible but may only use a portion of it on the day. It is better to be overprepared.

My normal routine is to leave home on a Friday afternoon and, Covid allowing, the ITV team would usually meet for an early supper to run through the plans for the day. I then head off to look through the runners, riders and form along with the really helpful owners brief we receive from the ROA in the peace of my room.”

Why would Alice recommend a career in the racing industry to anyone? “the diversity of roles is huge and you get to meet such a broad spectrum of people.”

“The industry is also an inspiring one to be involved in. It is continually looking at itself to see what changes need to be made, how to improve equality, how to offer more opportunities and how to look after those involved in this exciting sport. I feel privileged to be part of what is a huge racing family.”

A SCOT M E E T S . . . . . 47

APPLY TO BE PART OF A BRITISH HORSERACING DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME LIKE NO OTHER • For the first time in more than 30 years the Programme is open to non-graduates • Applications close on Sunday 28 February.

For the first time ever, the British Horseracing Development Programme is being opened up to non-graduates – and those hoping to take advantage have until the end of the month to apply.

Formerly the British Horseracing Graduate Development Programme, the scheme is designed by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) to shine a light on the numerous career opportunities within the sport of horseracing. Placing suitable candidates into positions with potential employers through eight-week summer work placements.

Now, to reflect the changing educational landscape and the shift towards apprenticeships and other workplace learning, the Programme is casting its net wider and evolving to become an early careers solution suitable for candidates with Degrees, Higher Apprenticeships or equivalent skills and capabilities.

The Programme takes place over a ten-week period during the summer and comprises a two-week intensive industry education module which is completed prior to each candidate embarking upon an eight-week placement with a Programme sponsor.

A passion for Sport or Horseracing is desirable although experience is not essential.

If a career in an exciting and high-profile sport sounds appealing, then this Programme may be of interest to you. You can view the 2019 placements here. Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, please note that we may have to run a Virtual Development Programme in 2021, similar to what was run in 2020. To see how this looked, please click here to view the digital brochure.

Zoe Elliott, BHA Head of Careers Marketing and Recruitment, said: “The British Horseracing Development Programme is among the most highly-regarded schemes of its kind in the sport and continues to be an invaluable source of talent for the industry.

“Over the years, it has been a great thrill to see so many of the applicants go on to successful employment within the sport, where they play meaningful roles in shaping the present and future of the sport.

“It is important that the British Horseracing Development Programme continues to attract the best talent and so it makes sense that we recognise the shift towards apprenticeships and other equivalent skills when inviting applications.

“We are proud that racing remains a viable career path for talented individuals from a range of backgrounds, despite the struggles the economy at large is enduring at the moment, and we are excited to meet this year’s applicants.”

To apply for the 2021 British Horseracing Development Programme, visit: www.careersinracing.com/job/british-horseracing-development-programme/

B R I T I S H H O R S E R AC I N G D E V E LO P M E N T P R O G R A M M E 49

ASCOT RACECOURSE SUPPORTS BERKSHIRE VISION

Today we recognise Berkshire Vision, a charity that has been supporting blind and partially sighted children and adults across Berkshire for over 110 years.

Ascot Racecourse became especially involved with the charity during the first wave of the pandemic, with staff volunteering to join their telephone befriending service.

A small commitment of just an hour once a week makes all the difference and really helped members who were suffering from symptoms of isolation.

Sight loss can take away more than just vision; it can take away independence and confidence and leave those affected isolated. Many of us have struggled with reduced social contact through successive lockdowns, but for many visually impaired people this has been intensified as the world around has changed in ways they cannot see to navigate.

This includes one-way systems they cannot see, signs limiting numbers of purchases they cannot read, and other people unable to come close enough to help. When most of us had some temporary respite with restrictions easing, those with sight loss were once again left behind as many cannot see to socially distance and, sadly, many reported being shouted at in public for failing to stay away from a person they did not know was there.

Berkshire Vision offers a wide range of support including Sight Loss Support Officers who provide 1:1 support to ensure visually impaired people have everything they need to remain as independent as possible; Telephone Befriending to ensure no one ever feels alone or that no one cares; Employability Support to help every single person reach their full potential and Tech Buddies to enable those with sight loss to make the best use of the technology and accessibility features available and Aids and Adaptations advice to maximise independence.

50 BERKSHIRE VISION

The charity also organise remote activities to keep everyone connected from the comfort and safety of their own homes including murder mysteries, quizzes, coffee mornings, history talks etc. In normal times, social activities would include boat and theatre trips with audio description and touch tours. They also organise adapted sports ranging from seated exercise, walks and yoga to dragon boating, blind football and golf.

Importantly, they provide Peer Support Groups for the newly diagnosed and for each of the highest incidence sight loss conditions plus children and family activities to develop visually impaired children’s skills, confidence and aspirations, providing the building blocks for their futures.

The charity are always in need of new volunteers and keen to increase their reach to support more people in Berkshire so if you would like to get involved, or you or someone you know is living with sight loss, they would love to hear from you.

In recognition of our collaboration and the work of the charity, our 4.10pm race has been named “The Ascot Racecourse Supports Berkshire Vision Handicap Hurdle Race”.

For more information, to donate, or to get involved visit www.berkshirevision.org.uk, call 0118 987 2803 or email info@berkshirevision.org.uk Reg. Charity No. 1146413 BERKSHIRE VISION

51

R AC E 6 4 .1 0 P M T H E A S C OT R AC E C O U R S E S U P P O R T S B E R K S H I R E V I S I O N H A N D I CA P H U R D L E R AC E

( C L A S S 3 ) ( Q UA L I F I E R F O R T H E C H A L L E N G E R S TAY E R S HURDLE SERIES FINAL)

RACE FINISH

RACE START

Two miles about seven and a half furlongs (2m 7f 118yds) (4,700 metres) For four 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 65 for conditions of this race.

Berkshire Vision 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

ZHIGULI (IRE) (26)

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Grangeclare Flight (IRE) (Old Vic) Owner: Druzhba Racing Partnership Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 13 Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Colours: WHITE, BLACK cross belts, Breeder: Brian Kiely BLACK and WHITE halved sleeves, RED cap.

Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd Form: 603121

Jockey Niall Houlihan (5)

HHHH Ridden by Niall Houlihan last three starts, when winning at Huntingdon and Plumpton (upped to 3m1f, soft) and runner-up on heavy at Taunton in between; up another 8lb but has more to offer now as a stayer.

Official BHA Rating 126

2

FLIGHT DECK (IRE) (37)

B g Getaway (GER) - Rate of Knots (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 13 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Mrs Noreen McManus YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Wasdell Group Form: 600/1-F1

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

HHHHH Fell on chase debut but he’s won his only two handicaps as a hurdler, including when he overcame some sticky initial jumping at Bangor (heavy) on latest outing; unraced beyond 2m4f but stayed on best last time and his dam stayed 3m7f, so this step up in trip could help him deal with 6lb rise.

Official BHA Rating 126

3

DA R I U S D E S B O I S ( F R ) ( 3 5 0)

B g Great Pretender (IRE) - Palafixe (FR) (Valanour (IRE)) Owner: Mark Flinton and Caroline Fryer Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: Caroline Fryer, Wymondham Colours: ROYAL BLUE and YELLOW Breeder: Mme Joelle Brillet & Mr Michel Brillet stripes, halved sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Form: P/P2212- D

Fergus Gregory (3)

H Pulled up in early 2019 over fences on last two starts for Nicky Henderson and he’s not thrown in on earlier form; competitive with this equipment in points last season, including for one win, but others preferred. Official BHA Rating 125

4 PA R I C O L O R ( F R ) ( 3 8 )

B g Orpen (USA) - Kadiana (IRE) (Grand Lodge (USA)) Owner: Mrs J P E Cunningham & Mr G M Cunningham Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 12 Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington Colours: EMERALD GREEN, Breeder: Dr R. Simon, N. Simon & G. Saudrais YELLOW sash and sleeves, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: 511151

Tom Scudamore

HHH Rattled off a quick hat-trick in sellers when blinkers were applied late last year and he won another on latest outing, with three of those wins at Leicester and three from the front; came unstuck off this mark at Fakenham in between, so there is something to be proved back in a handicap as well as with this step up in trip, but he was hugely on top last time.

Official BHA Rating 125

5

J ’A I F R O I D ( I R E ) ( 2 2 )

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Park Wave (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Mrs K. Bromley Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 11 Trainer: L J Morgan, Waltham On The Wolds Colours: DARK BLUE, LIGHT BLUE seams, Breeder: Patricia and Marie Keating RED sleeves, DARK BLUE cap, RED diamonds.

Form: 401/-411 D

HHHH Drew 22l clear in first-time visor at Ayr (3m, heavy) on second start for Laura Morgan and he was well on top all the way up the straight under a 7lb penalty at Doncaster (3m, soft) 11 days later; up a further 11lb today but those last two runs may not have got to the bottom of him.

Official BHA Rating 124

5 2 R A C I N G PA G E S

Max Kendrick (3)

6 6

LABEL DES OBEAUX (FR) (63)

B g Saddler Maker (IRE) - La Bessiere (FR) (Loup Solitaire (USA)) Owner: David Sewell & Terry Warner Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 9 Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Colours: YELLOW, BLACK chevron, Breeder: N. Devilder, H, Delloye & S. Fasquelle BLACK and YELLOW check cap.

Sponsor: Hare Group Ltd Form: 6/04-664 D BF

Tom Bellamy

HHH Missed 2019 and has been way below his old chase form over hurdles this season; the handicapper has reacted in a major way and latest effort was more competitive but he still needs to raise his game again; cheekpieces (last tried when sixth in 2018 Scottish National) return.

Official BHA Rating 122

7

S A I N T DA L I N A ( F R ) ( 3 5 )

B m Saint des Saints (FR) - Dalina (FR) (Trempolino (USA)) Owner: Mr Alan Halsall Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 9 Trainer: Charlie Longsdon, Chipping Norton Colours: ROYAL BLUE, Breeder: Mme Josette Lasseur DARK GREEN sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: LKF Bloodstock Ltd Form: 61-2124

Richard Johnson

HHH Previously ridden this season by claimer Tom Buckley; upped to 2m7f for 13l win at Uttoxeter (soft) in December and very good fourth in a Pertemps qualifier at Warwick (3m1f, heavy) on latest outing; needs better still and wears headgear for the first time.

Official BHA Rating 122

8

FAW S L E Y S P I R I T ( I R E ) ( 3 5 )

B g Stowaway - Apple Trix (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Mrs Rachel Brodie & Mr Clive Bush Horse Age: 8 Weight: 11 8 Trainer: Ben Pauling, Bourton-on-the-Water Colours: DARK BLUE, YELLOW disc, Breeder: Denis Cummins sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Jeremy Houghton - Houghtonart Form: 602-2F1

Luca Morgan (7)

HHHH Front-runner under Luca Morgan this season; ran a storming race until taking a tired fall at the final flight (about 1l up at the time) over C&D in December; deservedly off the mark at Market Rasen (again 2m7f on heavy) four weeks later when the first two were a long way clear, so he’s an in-form candidate to consider despite 7lb rise.

Official BHA Rating 121

9

REPUBLICAN (GB) (97)

B g Kayf Tara - Noun de La Thinte (FR) (Oblat (FR)) Owner: Mr Edward J. Ware Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 7 Trainer: Oliver Sherwood, Upper Lambourn Colours: BLACK and WHITE Breeder: Miss V. M. Williams (quartered), SCARLET sleeves and cap.

Sponsor: Rewards 4 Racing Ltd Form: 3126-42 BF

Jonathan Burke

HHH Won a novice hurdle in December 2019 and reliable in his four starts since, including on heavy going; this season’s two runs have been over fences; off for over three months; unraced beyond an extended 2m5f, which asks a question, but he needs respect.

Official BHA Rating 120

1 0 YO U N G O F F E N D E R ( I R E ) ( 1 7 ) B g Rule of Law (USA) - Cayetina (Kayf Tara) Owner: Mr David Mitson Trainer: Stuart Edmunds, Newport Pagnell Breeder: Mr J. Hassett Sponsor: Science Supplements

Ciaran Gethings

Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 5 Colours: BLACK, LIGHTNING SILVER seams on sleeves, sides and shoulders, LIGHTNING SILVER cap.

Form: 132-0P0

HH Usually front-runner; three solid runs (two at Fakenham, one Market Rasen) over 2m4f/2m7f last term and reappearance was no disgrace but he’s not fired in his two runs since, on heavy ground last time; acts on soft; dropped only 3lb since handicap debut and others are more persuasive.

Official BHA Rating 118

11 REVELS HILL (IRE) (28)

Sam

Twiston-Davies B g Mahler - Chlolo Supreme (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Noel Fehily Racing Syndicates-Revels Hil Horse Age: 6 Weight: 11 5 Trainer: Harry Fry, Seaborough Colours: RED, WHITE chevron, ROYAL Breeder: Mrs Kay Cottrell BLUE sleeves, YELLOW stars, WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Citipost Form: U1-604 D

HHHH Unchallenged maiden point winner last February; soundly beaten in his first two novice hurdles but his fourth of ten when 50-1 at Taunton (2m3f, soft) four weeks ago was vastly better; shaped as if he would stay beyond that and looks feasibly treated, so he’s an interesting handicap debutant.

Official BHA Rating 118

1 2 S H A N RO E SA N TOS ( I R E ) (1 7 )

B g Definite Article - Jane Hall (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) Owner: Mr James Summers Horse Age: 12 Weight: 11 4 Trainer: Lucy Wadham, Newmarket Colours: RED, BLACK cross belts, Breeder: Ms A. J. Fox BLACK and RED striped sleeves.

Sponsor: Weatherbys Hamilton LLP Form: 03-3P4U D

David Bass

HH 2-4 over hurdles but unraced in this sphere since April 2015; thrown in judged on lots of his subsequent chase form but his reappearance (itself below form) is easily the best of his four runs this season; unseated when switched from blinkers/ cheekpieces to visor on latest start.

Official BHA Rating 117

R A C I N G PA G E S

53

6 1 3 L E O S TA R ( G B ) ( 1 3 )

Ch g Nathaniel (IRE) - Gaditana (Rainbow Quest (USA)) Owner: Mrs Elizabeth Ferguson Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 4 Trainer: Alistair Whillans, Hawick Colours: LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE stars on Breeder: Brook Stud Bloodstock & W. A. Tinkler sleeves, LIGHT BLUE cap, ORANGE star.

Sponsor: Sport Of Kings Classic Racewear Form: F31524

Craig Nichol

HHH Greatly improved in handicaps this season, including an easy win at Kelso (2m5f); acts on soft, as shown again at 2m6f and 3m on last two outings; below form sole start on heavy and needs to resume improvement.

Official BHA Rating 117

1 4 R U B Y Y E AT S ( G B ) ( 3 2 )

B m Yeats (IRE) - Newbay Lady (Terimon) Owner: Heart of the South Racing 122 Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: Mrs S. J. Somner Sponsor: Heart Of The South Bloodstock

Joshua Moore

Horse Age: 10 Weight: 11 4 Colours: DARK GREEN, ROYAL BLUE diamond.

Form: UP11-51

HHH Ended last season with wins over 2m5f and 2m4f and resumed winning ways with her late bid at Exeter (2m2f) last month; in-form candidate who goes well in the mud but best efforts have been over shorter than this.

Official BHA Rating 117

15 OSCAR ASCHE (IRE) (42)

B g Oscar (IRE) - Boro Supreme (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Spencer Gammond,Jackie Rymer&Rob Farnham Horse Age: 7 Weight: 11 0 Trainer: Rebecca Curtis, Newport Colours: RED, GOLD cross belts, Breeder: Cyrus Buttimer OLIVE GREEN and RED quartered cap.

Sponsor: William Hill Form: 42-PUP0 D

Tom O’Brien

HH 4lb lower than when second at Hereford (3m1f, soft) last March but because he’s been right out of form this season, over fences on first three occasions and hurdles last time; switches from cheekpieces to blinkers.

Official BHA Rating 113

Blinkers worn first time by No. 15. Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 3. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 3, 7.

Visor worn by No. 5, 12. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 6, 14.

2020: ST BARTS (IRE) 6 11 3 Ben Jones 2-1 (Philip Hobbs) 15 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT ST

D I S TA N C E

ND RD TH

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

TIME

6 RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

7-1 J’Ai Froid (IRE), 15-2 Zhiguli (IRE), Paricolor (FR), 8-1 Flight Deck (IRE), 9-1 Fawsley Spirit (IRE), 10-1 Label des Obeaux (FR), Republican (GB), Revels Hill (IRE), 12-1 Saint Dalina (FR), uby Yeats (GB), 14-1 Young Offender (IRE), Shanroe Santos (IRE), Oscar Asche (IRE), 18-1 Darius des Bois (FR), Leostar (GB)

INT E TY

WE L

I GR

RE FA

U

AR

Call

08000 852 580 (free 24 hours a day)

Visit

britishhorseracing.com/RaceWISE

LI

EG

TY

SAF

If you have concerns about the integrity of British racing or the wellbeing of the sport’s participants, human or equine, please contact RaceWISE. Anonymous reporting.

D IN

G

EQ

UA

R A C I N G PA G E S

55

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

ASCOT RACECOURSE SUPPORTS DINGLEY’S PROMISE

Dingley’s Promise is a Berkshire-based charity whose mission is to deliver life changing support to under 5’s with additional needs & disabilities and their families. They are committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of their perceived ability, is given equal opportunity to develop and thrive. Click here to view a video on the charity’s work.

Delivering Life Changing Support to children Working across three dedicated centres, their specialist Early Years practitioners offer Learning Through Play programmes for children with special educational needs and disability (SEND), tailored to each individual child’s needs. They work to transition children to mainstream early years settings wherever possible, using their specialist knowledge to build wider inclusion.

Providing help, advice and outreach support to families Dingley’s have an established family support programme - which Ascot Racecourse Supports was proud to contribute to back in 2018 - which provides individual and group support to families of children with SEND both in their centres and in their homes.

During the pandemic, the charity developed remote support to connect with parents who were struggling, such as virtual ‘stay and plays’, coffee mornings and ‘walk & talks’ which are all still ongoing.

To provide their services, they need to fundraise more than £385,000 each year. During these challenging times, which continue to impact on their children and families, support is needed more than ever. If you can support Dingley’s whether through donation, fundraising, volunteering or corporate partnership, please contact fundraising@dingley. org.uk or visit their website for more details www.dingley.org.uk.

In support of the charity’s work, our 4.45pm race has been named “The Dingley’s Promise British EBF Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race”.

Registered charity No. 1137609 59 DINGLEY’S PROMISE

R AC E 7 4.45PM T H E D I N G L E Y ’ S P R O M I S E B R I T I S H E B F M A R E S’ S TA N DA R D O P E N N AT I O N A L H U N T F L AT R AC E ( C L A S S 4 ) ( N H M O P S B O N U S R AC E ) ( G B B R AC E )

RACE FINISH

RACE START

About two miles (1m 7f 152yds) (3,100 metres) For four, five and six yrs old fillies and mares Total race value £5000. Owners Prize Money. Winner £2477; Second £821; Third £411; Fourth £205. (Penalty Value £3249) See page 65 for conditions of this race.

Dingley’s Promise 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

J E R S E Y L A DY ( F R ) ( 6 0)

Ch m Martaline - La Bombonera (FR) (Mansonnien (FR)) Owner: Mr A. Taylor Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 6 Trainer: Oliver Sherwood, Upper Lambourn Colours: YELLOW, DARK GREEN epaulets, DARK GREEN Breeder: Mr Nigel Faulks & Mme Sarah Faulks sleeves, YELLOW armlets, YELLOW cap, DARK GREEN star.

Sponsor: Rewards 4 Racing Ltd Form: 130 D

Jockey Jonathan Burke

HHHH Well-bred mare who made a winning debut at Ludlow (good to firm) in October and showed even better form when third in a Listed race at Cheltenham (soft) the following month; reportedly in season when disappointing last time; has a penalty to carry but unlikely to be far away.

Official BHA Rating -

2

CODE NAME LISE (IRE) (35)

B m Fame And Glory - Firth of Five (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Ms E. L. Banks Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Lucy Wadham, Newmarket Colours: PURPLE, ORANGE stars, EMERALD Breeder: Trish Markey & Frances Hatton GREEN sleeves, PURPLE armlets, ORANGE cap.

Sponsor: GB Helicopters Form: 2

Richard Johnson

HHHH From a useful family and she changed hands for 85,000euros as a 3yo; made a promising start against males when second of seven at Warwick (heavy; 11-2) five weeks ago, keeping on after meeting trouble; open to improvement and looks a leading contender.

Official BHA Rating -

3

DRASH ON RUBY (GB) (28)

B m Passing Glance - So Long (Nomadic Way (USA)) Owner: Mrs B Tully and Mr R Lock Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Jeremy Scott, Dulverton Colours: PURPLE, YELLOW star, Breeder: Mrs C. C. Scott RED sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Sponsor: Brendon Powerwashers Form: 54

Matt Griffiths

HHH Sister to the same stable’s smashing jumper Dashel Drasher, who also won a bumper; showed some promise on her debut but didn’t improve as anticipated when 15l fourth of 13 at Taunton (well backed) four weeks ago; plenty to find on form but may yet do better.

Official BHA Rating -

4 GWENNOLINE (FR) (28) Gr m Balko (FR) - Ugoline (FR) (Dom Alco (FR)) Owner: Thorne Farm Racing Ltd Trainer: Nigel Hawke, Tiverton Breeder: L. Giethlen Cadiergues & D. Giethlen Sponsor: Junction 24 Ltd

Kieren Buckley (7)

Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Colours: MAUVE, WHITE sash, hooped sleeves, WHITE cap.

Form: 06

HH Signs of ability in two bumpers but hasn’t looked the easiest of rides, hooded each time; needs to up her game to make an impact today.

Official BHA Rating -

5

M I S S FA I R FA X ( I R E ) ( 4 0 )

Ch m Imperial Monarch (IRE) - Stein Castle (IRE) (Shantou (USA)) Owner: The Hill Stud Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Hughie Morrison, East Ilsley Colours: SCARLET, YELLOW sash and Breeder: R. McCarthy sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Sponsor: Bridgend Hotel Form: 3

HHHHH Showed clear signs of greenness on her debut at Hereford (soft; 6-1) six weeks ago, off the bridle before most, but she gradually got the hang of things and stayed on well to finish third of 14; represents a yard with a 21% strike-rate in bumpers in the last five seasons and, with improvement on the cards, she could well enhance it here; major player.

Official BHA Rating -

6 0 R A C I N G PA G E S

Tom O’Brien

7 6

SO SAID I (GB) (16)

Harry Cobden

Gr m Malinas (GER) - Wassailing Queen (Generous (IRE)) Owner: And So Say All Of Us Partnership Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Trainer: Colin Tizzard, Sherborne Colours: BLACK, YELLOW seams, BLACK and Breeder: Barrow Hill WHITE striped sleeves, BLACK cap, YELLOW star.

Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited Form: 3

HHH From a family which has served the Tizzards well and she made an encouraging start when 10l third of ten at Wincanton (1m7f, heavy) this month; today’s stiffer track should be in her favour.

Official BHA Rating -

7

UNIVERSAL BROOK (GB) (28)

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

B m Universal (IRE) - Alfies Gift (Helissio (FR)) Owner: Mrs G. Davies Trainer: Rebecca Curtis, Newport Breeder: Mrs G. Davies

Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Colours: DARK GREEN, MAROON sash and sleeves, WHITE cap.

Form: HHH Unconsidered in the betting but showed something to build on when third of3 13 at Taunton (soft; 40-1) last month,

finishing ahead of Drash On Ruby and Gwennoline; probably needs to improve to trouble one or two of these but that’s not out of the question.

Official BHA Rating -

8

WHENTHEPENNYDROPS (GB) (-)

B m Kayf Tara - Subtilty (With Approval (CAN)) Owner: Mr S. Payne Trainer: Kayley Woollacott, Crewkerne Breeder: Mill House Stud & Kathy Stuart Sponsor: NAF

Tom Scudamore

Horse Age: 5 Weight: 11 2 Colours: YELLOW, RED star and armlets, hooped cap.

Form:

HH £15,000 3yo; trainer is 0-21 in bumpers in the last five seasons; others appeal more.

Official BHA Rating -

Hood worn by No. 4.

Stewards Note: JERSEY LADY: Following its run on 22/12/2020 it was reported that the horse was in season.

2020: SABRINA (IRE) 5 11 2 Harry Cobden 11-2 (Paul Nicholls) 8 ran

A S C O T R E S U LT ST

D I S TA N C E

ND RD

TIME

TH

R A C I N G PA G E S

61

7 RACE PREDICTOR

BETTING FORECAST:

11-4 Miss Fairfax (IRE), 3-1 Code Name Lise (IRE), 4-1 Jersey Lady (FR), 7-1 So Said I (GB), Universal Brook (GB), 8-1 Drash On Ruby (GB), 16-1 Whenthepennydrops (GB), 20-1 Gwennoline (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.

6 2 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

eventmasters.co.uk

Millgate

Mrs Anne Cowley

Fortnum & Mason

Molton Brown London

The Anders Foundation

Foundation Developments Ltd

Nick Miles Esq

A Garden for All Seasons

Gallagher Re

The October Club

Ascot Underwriting Ltd

Geotech Soil Stabilisation Ltd

bet365 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

Kelly Group Knights Les Ambassadeurs Casino Lexicon Recruitment Ltd Liontrust

Savills Signature Capital Sky Bet Tattersalls Thames Materials

Finance Limited

LondonMetric Property Plc

CMS

Long Harbour

Coral

Mar-Key Group

UK Tote Group Ltd

Creativevents

Matchbook

Veolia

Crown Designs

McGee Group Ltd

Wood & Wood Signs

European Breeders Fund

Merriebelle Stable

The Wooldridge Group

The Vent Family

ASCOT’S SPONSORS 63

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 Mike Cattermole Equine Welfare and Integrity Officers Darren Stone Stuart Shilston Kelly McSorley Mel Baker Veterinary Officer Amy Hawthorn

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, Derrick Morris, Chris Rutter, Guy Upton

OFFICIALS

Starters William Jardine Kieran O’Shea Clerk of the Scales Georgina Robarts 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) Jamie Knapp 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 1.15 - THE greatbritishstallionshowcase.co.uk NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10948 to the winning horse The second to receive £3234, the third £1617, the fourth £808, the fifth £404 and the sixth £203. for novice five yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, February 15th and pay £87 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Weights: 11st each Mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 3 to Class 5 hurdle race 5lb Of 2 hurdle races or of a Class 1 or Class 2 hurdle race 8lb.

Great British Racing International and the Thoroughbred Breeders Association will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. 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. 18 entries at £87. - Closed February 15th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £8313; Second £2777; Third £1390; Fourth £695; Fifth £347; Sixth £173. (Penalty Value £10948) A SEE PAGE 14 FOR THIS RACE. Second Race 1.50 - THE BATEAUX LONDON REYNOLDSTOWN NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £15946 to the winning horse The second to receive £5983, the third £2996, the fourth £1492, the fifth £750 and the sixth £375. for novice five yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, February 15th and pay £140 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Weights: 5-y-o 10st 11lb; 6-y-o and up 11st Mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 2 weight-for-age or Class 1 handicap steeple chase 3lb Of a Class 1 weight-for-age steeple chase 5lb. SODEXO has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and award a cash prize of £200 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 SODEXO. 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. 12 entries at £140. - Closed February 15th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £12202; Second £5009; Third £2506; Fourth £1252; Fifth £627; Sixth £314. (Penalty Value £15946) A SEE PAGE 20 FOR THIS RACE.

6 4 T O D AY ’ S O F F I C I A L S

Third Race 2.25 - THE ‘MY ODDSBOOST’ ON BETFAIR SWINLEY CHASE (A LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £29898 to the winning horse The second to receive £11219, the third £5617, the fourth £2798, the fifth £1407 and the sixth £703. for five yrs old and upwards. £262 stake if the horse is rated 140 or higher, or £52 stake if the horse is rated 139 or lower with £210 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Lowest weight 10st 4lb; Highest weight 11st 10lb Penalties, after February 13th, 2021, a winner of a steeple chase 5lb No penalty to increase Horse’s weight above 11st 10lb. BETFAIR will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, a £200 cash prize will be awarded to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BETFAIR. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 22 entries, 6 at £52 and 16 at £262. - Closed February 15th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £22880; Second £9392; Third £4699; Fourth £2347; Fifth £1176; Sixth £588.

(Penalty Value £29898.75) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE. Fourth Race 3.00 - THE BETFAIR CHELTENHAM FREE BET POT BUILDER HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £19706 to the winning horse The second to receive £5821, the third £2910, the fourth £1455, the fifth £727 and the sixth £365. for four yrs old and upwards. £157 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £31 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £126 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Penalties, after February 13th, 2021, for each hurdle race won 6lb. BETFAIR 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 in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BETFAIR. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 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 35 entries, 5 at £31 and 30 at £157.

- Closed February 15th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £14963; Second £4999; Third £2501; Fourth £1251; Fifth £624; Sixth £312. (Penalty Value £19706.40) Weights raised 6lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE. Fifth Race 3.35 - THE BETFAIR ASCOT STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £56950 to the winning horse The second to receive £21370, the third £10700, the fourth £5330 and the fifth £2680. 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 Handicapper shall be final.. Enter by noon, January 26th and pay £125 stake, Confirm by noon, February 15th and pay £375, Supplementary Entry by noon, February 15th and pay £5000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Weights: 5-y-o 11st 5lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 7lb Mares allowed 7lb.

BETFAIR has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and award a cash prize of £200 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 BETFAIR. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 48 Hour Declarations apply for this race. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Horses will be paraded in the order requested by the Managing Executive on the day 18 entries, 8 at £125, 10 at £500. - Closed January 26th, 2021.

Owners Prize Money. Winner £43580; Second £17890; Third £8950; Fourth £4470; Fifth £2240. (Penalty Value £56950) A SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS RACE. Sixth Race 4.10 - THE ASCOT RACECOURSE SUPPORTS BERKSHIRE VISION HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Qualifier for the Challenger Stayers Hurdle Series Final) 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 four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-125 (also open to such horses rated 126 and 127 - see Standard Conditions). £58 stake if the horse is rated 99 or higher, or £11 stake if the horse is rated 98 or lower with £47 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Penalties, after February 13th, 2021, for each hurdle race won 6lb. ASCOT 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. Horses which have been placed in the first eight in this race will be eligible to enter THE CHALLENGER STAYERS HURDLE SERIES FINAL (A HANDICAP HURDLE RACE), to be run over a distance of Three Miles About Half A Furlong (3m 58yds) at Haydock Park on April 3rd, 2021. 34 entries at £58. - Closed February 15th, 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 52 FOR THIS RACE. Seventh Race 4.45 - THE DINGLEY’S PROMISE BRITISH EBF MARES’ STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 4) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £3249 to the winning horse The second to receive £954, the third £477 and the fourth £238. for four, five and six yrs old fillies and mares only, which are E.B.F. eligible, which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing, except National Hunt Flat races, Irish National Hunt Flat races or French AQPS Flat races. Enter by noon, February 15th and pay £25 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 18th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 7lb; 5-y-o and 6-y-o 11st 2lb Penalties, a winner of a race 4lb Of 2 races 7lb Of 3 races 10lb. The Riders’ Allowances under paragraph 53 of the Weights and Handicapping Code may be claimed in this race. ASCOT will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse. THE TRUSTEES OF THE E.B.F. have kindly contributed £1000 towards the prize money for this race. ELIMINATION PROCEDURE - SEE the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code). 11 entries at £25. - Closed February 15th, 2021. Owners Prize Money. Winner £2477; Second £821; Third £411; Fourth £205. (Penalty Value £3249) SEE PAGE 60 FOR THIS RACE.

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

65

THE ASCOT ENQUIRY Mick Fitzgerald Mick Fitzgerald has moved seamlessly from his role of jockey to television presenter and can often be found on our screens sharing his knowledge gained over his 15 years in the saddle, notching up over 1300 wins including the 2001 Ascot Chase riding Tiutchev.

Mick shares his favourite Ascot memory, the guests he would love to sit down to dinner with and the surprise vocation he may well of followed had he not been bitten by the racing bug.

Your favourite Ascot memory from your time as a jockey?

My outstanding Ascot memory was the very surreal moment I found myself joining the Queen Mother for a glass of champagne whilst we watched her horse, First Love, run in the bumper on Ascot Chase day in 2001. I had ridden a double on the day winning both the Ascot Chase on Tiutchev and also the Reynoldstown on Bacchanal but followed that with a fall and hurt my arm. The invitation came through to the weighing room asking me if I would like to join Her Majesty in the Royal Box to watch the bumper.

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

Isio in the 2004 Victor Chandler Chase, he was foot perfect but I also loved riding Get Real who just loved Ascot.

Tell us a little known fact about yourself ?

As a child I was an Altar Boy. Which National Hunt horse currently in training would you like to ride in this year’s Betfair Ascot Chase and why?

Cyrname - he is the highest-rated and I would ride him aggressively to win.

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

To believe in yourself because you must make others believe in you too.

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

The glory!

You jump the last fence in the Ascot Chase riding Tiutchev upsides Cyrname, under Harry Cobden, and Cue Card, ridden by Joe Tizzard. Who wins?

Me of course – it’s my dream race so I can decide the result!

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

Vincent O’Brien, my wife Chloe, Fred Archer and Liam Tredwell.

Hurdles or chase fences?

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

Golf A young jump jockey to look out for?

Caoilin Quinn If you had not become a jockey which career would you have chosen?

Golfer 6 6 T H E A SCOT E N Q U I RY

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

RIDERS ONTHE STORM ( front cover)

Winner of the 2020 Betfair Ascot Chase Jockey: Sam Twiston-Davies Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies Owner: Carl Hinchy And Mark Scott Breeder: Tom Taaffe

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