If you’re gearing up for race day and want to catch every thrilling moment from a front-row perspective, having a pair of the best binoculars is a game-changer. Think of it like having a personal front-seat upgrade – you get to see every gallop, every stride, and every burst of speed without having to scramble for a better view.

There are plenty of options out there to suit different needs. In this guide to the best binoculars for horse racing we’ll give you all the information you need to pick the best binoculars to enhance your enjoyment at the races, whether you’re heading to Cheltenham Festival or your local track. If you’re a bit befuddled by the numbers and specifications, here’s a super-simple explainer.

Best binoculars for horse racing: H&H’s quick guide

Best value binoculars: Nikon Prostaff P7 10×42

Best compact binoculars: Steiner BluHorizons 10×26

Best premium pick: Canon 10×30 IS

Best budget pick: Olympus 8×25 WP

Nikon Prostaff P7 10×42

Magnification: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42mm

Weight: 645g

RRP: £259

Reasons to buy

• Sharp, high-contrast images with multi-coated lenses
• Waterproof and fog-proof, ideal for all weather conditions
• Comfortable rubber-armoured grip for secure handling

Reasons to avoid

• Slightly heavier than some compact models
• Higher magnification can make it harder to keep a steady image without a tripod

The Nikon Prostaff P7 10×42 is a solid all-rounder, perfect for racegoers who want crisp, detailed views without jumping to a premium price bracket. The multi-coated optics and phase-corrected roof prisms enhance brightness and clarity, helping you track fast-moving horses with ease.

Built to handle the elements, these binoculars are waterproof and nitrogen-filled, meaning you won’t have to worry about misting up in damp conditions. The textured rubber coating ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even on a long day at the races.

With 10x magnification, you’ll get up-close views of the action, but if you struggle with a steady hand, a lower magnification model might be easier to use. However, for those looking for a high-quality pair that balances performance, durability, and affordability, the Nikon Prostaff 7S is a great pick.

Steiner BluHorizons 10×26

Magnification: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 26mm

Weight: 310g

RRP: £199

Reasons to buy

• Ultra-compact and lightweight
• Auto-adjusting light technology for glare-free viewing
• Rugged, rubber exterior for durability

Reasons to avoid

• Smaller objective lens lets in less light in low-light conditions
• 10x magnification can be tricky to keep steady in a compact model

The Steiner BluHorizons 10×26 is perfect for racegoers who want a lightweight, pocket-sized binocular without sacrificing performance. The lens automatically adjusts brightness to reduce glare – ideal for those sunny days at the track.

While the 10x magnification provides fantastic close-up views, the smaller 26mm objective lens means they perform best in bright daylight. If you want something compact that’s easy to carry but still powerful enough for a detailed view, these are a great option.

Canon 10×30 IS

Magnification: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 30mm

Weight: 600g

RRP: £469.99

Reasons to buy

• Image stabilisation tech (IS) for a steady view
• Crisp, high-contrast optics
• Comfortable, ergonomic design for extended use

Reasons to avoid

• Battery-powered stabilization requires replacements
• More expensive than non-stabilized models

The Canon 10×30 IS stands out with its image stabilisation technology, which compensates for hand movements, delivering a steady, shake-free view. This makes them perfect for following the action, even at higher magnifications.

The 30mm objective lens balances portability and light-gathering ability, making them a solid mid-range option. If you struggle to keep binoculars steady but want the benefits of 10x zoom, these are the best horse racing binoculars for you.

Olympus 8×25 WP

Magnification: 8x

Objective lens diameter: 25mm

Weight: 260g

RRP: £109.99

Reasons to buy

• Extremely lightweight and compact
• Waterproof design for all-weather use
• Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality

Reasons to avoid

• Lower magnification compared to others on this list
• Small objective lens limits brightness in dim conditions

The Olympus 8×25 WP is one of the most compact and affordable options on this list, making it a great pick for casual racegoers. Despite its small size, the optics are surprisingly sharp and its waterproofing ensures durability.

If you’re after something lightweight that still provides clear and stable viewing, these are an excellent choice for the price.

Zeiss Terra ED 8×42

Magnification: 8x

Objective lens diameter: 42mm

Weight: 725g

Reasons to buy

• Wide field of view
• Exceptional optics with ED glass for high contrast and sharp details
• Waterproof and nitrogen-filled for durability

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price point compared to similar models
• Slightly bulkier than compact binoculars

The Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 is a premium choice for those who want exceptional clarity and a wide field of view. The ED glass enhances contrast and reduces chromatic aberration, meaning you get razor-sharp images with true-to-life colors.

With 8x magnification, you get a broader perspective, making it easier to track horses in motion. They’re slightly larger than some competitors, but if optical quality is your top priority, these are worth the investment.

Steiner Wildlife 8×24

Magnification: 8x

Objective lens diameter: 24mm

Weight: 350g

RRP: £189

Reasons to buy

• Lightweight and compact for easy carrying
• Wide field of view for tracking movement
• Robust, rubber design

Reasons to avoid

• Smaller objective lens limits brightness in low light
• Not as powerful as larger models

For racegoers who want a balance between portability and performance, the Steiner Wildlife 8×24 could be the one for you. The 8x magnification offers a steady, wide view, making it easier to track moving horses.

Designed for rugged use, the rubber coating ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions. While the smaller objective lens means they’re best suited to bright daylight, their lightweight design makes them easy to carry all day.

Celestron Outland X 10×42

Magnification: 10x

Objective lens diameter: 42mm

Weight: 624g

RRP: £95

Reasons to buy

• Great value for a 10×42 model
• Waterproof and fog-proof for all-weather use
• Rubber coating for a secure grip

Reasons to avoid

• Image clarity not as sharp as premium models
• Slightly heavier than some alternatives

For those on a budget, the Celestron Outland X 10×42 provides decent magnification and a robust, waterproof design at a low price point. They don’t match the clarity of higher-end options, but they’re solid for casual use.

How to choose a pair of binoculars for horse racing

There are plenty of binoculars available. Some are super compact and easy to carry around, which is perfect if you want to keep things light and hassle-free. Others, however, pack a bit more power with higher magnification and even image stabilisation to make sure you don’t miss a detail – even if your hands are a little shaky from all the excitement. It all comes down to what kind of experience you’re after.

“A decent pair of binoculars are your best accessory at the races,” explains Horse & Hound’s racing editor Jennifer Donald. “If you’ve a vested interest in a particular horse, whether as a punter, keen spectator or owner, nothing beats zooming in and following all the action.”

Gemma Redrup, Horse & Hound’s point-to-point editor adds: “In the absence of a big screen at most point-to-point fixtures, binoculars really help you keep abreast of the action within a race – and can therefore make you the envy of many as a result!”

Understanding binocular numbers: what do they mean?

When you pick up a pair of binoculars, you’ll often see a set of numbers printed on the body – something like “8×32” or “10×42”. At first glance, these might seem confusing, but they’re actually the key to understanding how your binoculars will perform.

The first number represents the magnification. An 8x magnification means objects will appear eight times closer than they are to the naked eye, while 10x magnification brings them ten times closer. The “x” simply stands for “times magnification”.

The second number refers to the diameter of the objective lens (the lens furthest from your eyes) in millimeters. For example, in 8×32 binoculars, the 32mm objective lens determines how much light enters the binoculars. A larger lens allows more light in, which means a brighter, clearer image, especially in low-light conditions.

What binoculars are best for horse racing?

It might seem like bigger is better when it comes to magnification, but that’s not always the case. While higher magnification provides a closer view, it also has trade-offs. Without a large enough objective lens, the image can appear darker and less clear, especially in low light.

For horse racing, you’ll want a balance between magnification and stability. Anything over 10x can amplify natural hand movements, making the image shaky and difficult to track fast-moving horses. Heavier binoculars can also become tiring to hold for long periods.

For the best race-day experience, 8x or 10x magnification with a 32mm–42mm objective lens is ideal – giving you a clear, steady view without unnecessary weight.

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Several winners from Newbury’s card on Saturday 12 February, which featured Europe’s most valuable handicap hurdle, look ones to watch as the Cheltenham Festival in March fast approaches. Over at Warwick, Alan King was said to be “delighted and relieved” as he now targets one of the big races. Here are five Cheltenham-bound horses from the weekend to keep an eye on…

ELDORADO ALLEN

Trying three miles for the first time, the Betfair Denman Chase winner Eldorado Allen (pictured) gave Colin Tizzard the option – or rather headache – of supplementing (£30,000) him for the Gold Cup. However, he is already in the Ryanair Chase – a race the trainer won with Cue Card nine years ago. Under Brendan Powell, he beat Royale Pagaille 2¼ lengths, with Clan Des Obeaux 10 lengths back in third.

FORTUNE AND GLORY

The Tom Lacey-trained Fortune And Glory booked his place in next month’s Champion Hurdle when he carried a big weight to victory by the narrowest of margins over the novice I Like To Move It in the Betfair Hurdle, the most valuable handicap hurdle in Europe, on Saturday.

Beyond the unbeaten reigning champion Honeysuckle, to whom Tom Lacey’s seven-year-old will have to concede the 7lb mares’ allowance, it looks an open Champion. Appreciate It will go straight there, not having raced this season, Sharjah is out and any number of horses, including Fortune And Glory, have each-way chances, especially as he stays further than two miles and, clearly, is suited by a strong gallop.

Stan Sheppard, who rode him, is really having a break-through season, having won the Welsh National on Iwilldoit and now the Betfair. And his timing, sending on the seven-year-old two out when he was travelling well, and hanging on to win by a short-head, was perfect.

Stan said: “I’ll be honest, I was looking through the race and couldn’t for the life of me work out why he was the price he was. Soaring Glory was 8-1 and we beat him at levels in the Christmas Hurdle, and we were getting weight off him today. It’s just brilliant, I was pretty confident beforehand, but I’m glad I got this one right.”

BRAVEMANSGAME

The Paul Nicholls-trained seven-year-old duly made all to comfortably beat Pats Fancy, a good winner of his previous two starts, 3½ lengths, giving him 16lb in the novices’ limited handicap at Newbury. If anything can put it up to his Irish equivalent Galopin Des Champs, it is Bravemansgame.

FUNAMBULE SIVOLA

While one cannot see Venetia Williams’s Funambule Sivola shaking up either Shishkin or Energumene – or even Chacun Pour Soi – in the Champion Chase, it is nearly Oscar time and we need a few best-supporting actors. Funambule Sivola beat Sceau Royal, a good marker, two lengths in the Betfair Exchange Game Spirit Chase, which would put him in the mix for a minor placing.

EDWARDSTONE

At the start of the season, I am not sure too many people would have thought Edwardstone – a decent handicap hurdler without quite setting the world on fire last season – would have gone to Cheltenham as favourite for the Arkle. However, Ireland’s two-mile novice division does not look its strongest, while Alan King’s son of Kayf Tara has become dependable and very solid.

First time out, he was brought down, but he has not looked back since winning the Henry VIII by 16 lengths, the Wayward Lad by 10 and Saturday’s Virgin Bet Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Warwick by more than four lengths from Third Time Lucki and Brave Seasca, smart novices in their own right. It was the perfect Cheltenham prep.

“I’m delighted and relieved,” said King. “I felt going from Kempton at Christmas straight to the Festival was too long for him, because he can get very fresh. He used to be strong, but he’s getting progressively better. Those big handicap hurdles last season – he was third in the Betfair Hurdle and fifth in the County Hurdle – manned him up and he’s a mature horse now.”

• Read Marcus’s full report on the weekend’s racing action in Horse & Hound, in shops on Thursday 20 January

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Doyens of jump racing Altior and Native River will delight their fans in a “special-guest” racecourse return at Newbury.

The recently retired pair, two of the most popular National Hunt stars in recent seasons, will parade on Betfair Super Saturday at Newbury racecourse (12 February). It will be the first time either has been on a racecourse since their retirements earlier this season.

“We are delighted that Altior is returning to parade at his old stomping ground and thank Newbury racecourse for this invitation,” said owners Particia and Chris Pugh.

“Altior had some seminal experiences here which were critical to his career. We would, of course, also like to thank all the fantastic racegoers for their kind words after Altior’s retirement.”

The Nicky Henderson-trained two-time Queen Mother Champion Chase winner bowed out from the sport in September, aged 11. His career boasted 21 wins from 26 starts, including 10 Grade Ones and a 19-race unbeaten streak.

Newbury was a happy hunting ground for both horses. Altior never finished outside the top three at the track and is the only horse to win the Game Sprint Chase three times (2017, 2018 and 2020).

Native River’s first victory at the course came in the 2016 Hennessy (now Ladbrokes Trophy), which he followed up with three wins in the Denman Chase. The 12-year-old gelding holds the record as the most successful horse in the history of the race, taking glory in 2017, 2018 and 2020.

The 2018 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, trained by Colin Tizzard, was retired in December, following a career that featured 14 wins and earnings of £1.1 million.

“Native River was unbeaten in five runs over fences at Newbury,” said co-owner Garth Broom.

“The season in which he won the Ladbrokes Trophy, the Welsh National and the Betfair Denman Chase and then finished a very close third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup would be a hard to top as a season. Of course, he then went and trumped that by winning the Gold Cup the following year.

“He performed for us every season in top-class races. He always raced with his heart on his sleeve. People took to him because he didn’t know how to run a bad race. He gave us so many good memories.”

The pair will parade between the Denman and Game Sprint chases.

“To have these two heroes return to Newbury on Betfair Super Saturday to parade in front of racegoers is particularly special,” said Keith Ottesen, clerk of the course.

“Our thanks go to owners Patricia and Chris Pugh and Garth and Ann Broom for their kind permission to bring these two very special jumping legends back to the racecourse so we can give them a proper retirement send-off.

“Both horses have been synonymous with this meeting, and it feels entirely appropriate that they are paraded between their respective winning races on the day.

“Thanks to Chloe and Mick Fitzgerald and the Tizzard team. We look forward to welcoming them all here in just over two weeks’ time and in front of a big crowd, our first at this fixture since 2020.”

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Tomorrow (Saturday 15 May), we will be treated to more Group One Flat racing action when the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes gets underway at Newbury racecourse (pictured). Here’s the full list of runners and riders who will be lining up in the second of the 2021 British Champions Series races over one mile to help you select your Lockinge Stakes bets. Who is your pick to win?

Pick your Lockinge Stakes bets

Horse: Palace Pier | Jockey: Frankie Dettori | Place bet: 8/13

Trainer: John & Thady Gosden

Verdict: A worthy short priced favourite after after a comprehensive eight length win in the Bet365 Mile Gr2 at Sandown three weeks ago

Lope Y Fernandez | Jockey: Ryan Moore | Place bet: 11/2

Aiden O’Brien

Verdict: Contested a listed event over a mile at Leopardstown where he travelled smoothly and won comfortably by over five lengths.

My Oberon |Jockey: Tom Marquand| Place bet: 15/2

William Haggas

Verdict: Highly rated from the in-form William Haggas yard. He was an easy winner of the Group Three Earl of Sefton Stakes over 1m1f at Newmarket last month.

Top Rank | Jockey: P J McDonald | Place bet: 8/1

James Tate

Verdict: A progressive sort and last won a Listed race at Doncaster in March.

Safe Voyage | Jockey: Jason Hart | Place bet: 14/1

John Quinn

Verdict: Won two Group Twos in August and September last year. Not seen since he finished last of 14 runners in the Breeders’ Cup Mile in November.

Century Dream | Jockey: James Doyle | Place bet: 16/1

Simon & Ed Crisford

Verdict: Has a couple of Group Two victories to his name, but has struggled to find form at the top level.

Lady Bowthorpe | Jockey: Oisin Murphy | Place bet: 18/1

William Jarvis

Verdict: The only mare in the field, she faces a tough task against the males.

Lord Glitters | Jockey: Daniel Tudhope | Place bet: 25/1

David O’Meara

Verdict: Has just returned from a successful stint in Dubai where he was successful in the Group One Jebel Hatta over 1m1f.

Lord Campari | Jockey: Adrea Atzeni | Place bet: 40/1

Roger Varian

Verdict: Has won over course and distance, but at a class much lower than this.

Pogo | Jockey: Kieran Shoemark | Place bet: 40/1

Charles Hills

Verdict: A Listed winner at Leicester last month, but this is a much tougher test.

Happy Power | Jockey: Silvestre DeSousa | Place bet: 50/1

Andrew Balding

Verdict: Effective over 7f last season, but didn’t get home over a mile on his reappearance last month.

Bless Him | Jockey: Jamie Spencer | Place bet: 66/1

David Simcock

Verdict: Beaten into second by Palace Pier in a Group Two last month and this will be a big ask.

Betting terms and conditions: Minimum deposit £5. Bet credits available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Minimum odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude bet credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Prices correct at time of publishing. Be Gamble Aware.

How can I watch the Lockinge Stakes?

ITV Racing will be showing the Lockinge Stakes live on the main ITV channel when the race gets underway at 3.35pm.

What is the prize money for winning?

The winner of the 2021 Lockinge Stakes will take home £198,485.

Recent Lockinge Stakes winners

2016: Belardo, ridden by Adrena Atzeni, trained by Roger Varian and owned by Godolphin

2017: Ribchester, ridden by William Buick trained by Richard Fahey and owned by Godolphin

2018: Rhododendron, ridden by Ryan Moore, trained by Aidan O’Brien and owned by Magnier/Tabor/Smith

2019: Mustashry, ridden by Jim Crowley, trained by Michael Stoute and owned by Hamdan Al Maktoum

2020: No race due to Covid

Continued below…

A beginner’s guide to betting

If you fancy having a flutter on a horse race but don’t know where to start, we’re here to help.

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Racing at Newbury on 29 December 2020 provided us with the treat of witnessing the final Grade One of the year, and it did not disappoint. Photographer Bill Selwyn was on hand to capture just a few of our favourite moments on camera…

Paint The Dream absolutely pinged his way around the Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase under and Connor Brace, making all the running to win for trainer Fergal O’Brien and owner David Brace.

Harry Cobden and Bravemansgame (right) makes all and wins the Challow Hurdle (Grade One) by 10 lengths for Paul Nicholls and owners John Dance and Bryan Drew, who paid £370,000 for the former point-to-point winner at the 2019 Tattersalls Cheltenham Festival sale. Bravemansgame’s win was so taking that Nicholls compared him to his former Challow Hurdle and Gold Cup winner, Denman.

“Next year, he’ll make a super chaser and he’s not unlike Denman in his physique, size and how he does things,” Nicholls said to ITV Racing. “He’s probably got a bit more boot than Denman – but it’s just nice to be talking about this horse in the same breath as him. He’s every bit as good at this stage of his career as Denman was at the same point.”

Calva D’Auge and Angus Cheleda lead over the last to win a Handicap Hurdle for Paul Nicholls and Owners Group 040.

Good Ball (centre, blue cap) and Harry Cobden en-route to winning the first part of a treble on the card for Paul Nicholls. This three-year-old is an exciting prospect for owners Sir Alex Ferguson, Ged Mason, and John and Lisa Hales.

Continued below…

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Panic Attack and Tom Scudamore are a picture of determination on their way to winning the Mares’ Handicap Hurdle for David Pipe and Bryan Drew.

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Following an illustrious career as a National Hunt jockey, Noel Fehily bowed out with a winner at Newbury on Saturday, 23 March, riding the Harry Fry-trained Get In The Queue in the bumper.

During a recent interview, courtesy of Great British Racing, Noel revealed that he aptly decided to have his final ride at the Berkshire track because it is his favourite racecourse.

The 43-year-old Irishman, who runs a small stud at his base in the Wiltshire-village of Semington, also spoke of his fond memories of riding the former Paul Nicholls-trained star Silviniaco Conti, plus his fun anecdotes from the weighing room.

Despite his love of Newbury Racecourse, Noel said his biggest memory of riding at the track was actually a negative one.

“I was absolutely gutted about losing in the Hennessy Gold Cup [now the Ladbrokes Trophy]. But I have had some good days at Newbury — I love the track,” he said.

Noel’s stellar career saw him claim over an outstanding 1,300 wins, including seven Cheltenham Festival victories. He has also had success in famous races including the King George VI, the Tingle Creek, the Betfair Ascot Chase and two successive Bowl Chase victories at Aintree aboard Silviniaco Conti.

His best season in the Stobart-sponsored jump jockeys’ championship was the 2013/14 campaign, when he secured 127 wins — this remains his highest tally during his career. He also surpassed the 100-winner landmark in a season an impressive four times.

Noel’s first victory in the saddle was over 20 years ago. “It was Ivy Boy at Plumpton in October 1998. It was fantastic — I think it was only my fourth or fifth ride in the country and it was a great day,” he added.

The jockey made an emotional announcement on his plans to retire following victory at the Cheltenham Festival aboard 50/1 shot Eglantine Du Seuil.

He summed up what he will miss the most from his career as a jockey, including the camaraderie in the weighing room and his funniest anecdotes. “Matty Batchelor [jockey] was a prankster,” he reflected. “He once cut the toes off Daryl Jacob’s socks, so they came up to his knees. Daryl didn’t see the funny side of that for a while.”

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Legendary chaser Denman will be remembered with a specially commissioned set of memorial gates at Newbury racecourse.

The National Hunt hero is the only horse since Arkle to win two runnings of the Hennessy Gold Cup, which has now been renamed the Ladbrokes Trophy, taking victory in 2007 and 2009.

The wrought iron gates, which bear his name and the dates of his two Hennessy victories, and were created by equine sculptor Charlie Langton with local blacksmith Guy Clarkson.

They will be officially opened on 9 February, Betfair Super Saturday, on the day of the 2019 Betfair Denman Chase.

Trainer Paul Nicholls said the gates are a fitting memorial to the horse’s “iron will”.

“Denman was an awesome horse who the public came to love because of his wholehearted approach to racing,” he said.

“He was a formidable competitor, particularly at Newbury where he won five times. He had an iron will and it feels appropriate that he is to be remembered with this magnificent set of gates.”

Affectionately nicknamed “The Tank”, the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner was owned by Paul Barber and the late Margaret Findlay.

He won 14 of his 24 starts under Rules, amassing more than £1.14 million in prize money.

After his retirement from racing in 2011, Denman was retrained by Charlotte Alexander and enjoyed hunting, team chasing, eventing and taking part in Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) parades.

He fully retired from ridden work in 2017 and lived out his days at Paul Barber’s Ditcheat farm until his death last June.

Mr Barber said he is touched that Newbury has chosen to permanently commemorate Denman in “such a fitting way”.

“Put simply, he was a horse of a lifetime,” he added.

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Harry Findlay, son of Denman’s late co-owner Margaret Findlay, said: “This is a fitting tribute for the immortal equine tank.

“National Hunt racing has the most educated support in the world and the knowledgeable rapport and banter with the punters after his two Hennessy wins at Newbury were something I will never forget,”he said, adding Denman “more than left his mark” on Newbury.

Newbury racecourse chief executive Julian Thick said Denman meant a lot to “so many”.

“He is synonymous with Newbury, marked by two Hennessy Gold Cup wins, a runaway win in what is now the renamed Denman Chase as well as two novice chases,” he said.

“We are looking forward to welcoming those who were associated with him to officially open the gates and are delighted to have commissioned an appropriate and permanent way of remembering a very special horse.”

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National Hunt heroes Sire De Grugy and Carruthers will be among the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) stars parading at Newbury on Saturday (1 December), in honour of the late Sir Peter O’Sullevan, the top commentator fondly known as “The Voice of Racing”.

Racegoers will be able to see five retrained racehorses up close ahead of the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Memorial Handicap Chase at 1.20pm, during day two of the Ladbrokes Winter Carnival.

The line-up features four Grade One winners, including 2014 Champion Chase winner Sire De Grugy, and the 2011 Hennessy Gold Cup (now the Ladbrokes Trophy) victor Carruthers.

They will be joined by fellow prolific winners Annacotty, Melodic Rendezvous and Zarkandar — all five horses are now enjoying a second career after retiring from racing.

“We are very grateful to the Peter O’Sullevan Trust for its on-going support of the RoR charity and in particular its sponsorship of our racecourse parades,” said the RoR chief executive Di Arbuthnot.

“Sir Peter was a fervent supporter of horse welfare and he would no doubt have enjoyed seeing these former stars of the track parade for the public at Newbury on Saturday.”

Sire De Grugy (pictured, below), who is making his debut appearance in a RoR parade, was the winner of 17 of his 42 races, including five Grade Ones. He was retired in December 2017, with Jamie Moore — his jockey and the son of his trainer Gary Moore — saying the horse had “achieved everything he possibly could.”

During the summer, Sire De Grugy spent a few weeks at RoR’s flagship yard at Palace House in Newmarket, where the gelding underwent some retraining and proved a big draw for the public.

Since then, he has been enjoying his retirement at Gary’s Sussex yard where Jamie’s wife, Lucie, often takes him out riding with their children.

Both Zarkandar and Melodic Rendezvous have also been retired from the track relatively recently and are still acclimatising to a slower pace of life. However, both have settled well into their new routines and are set to enjoy several days out hunting this season.

The 2015 Paddy Power Gold Cup winner Annacotty has adapted very well to his second career, competing in showjumping and showing — including being ridden side-saddle. The aim for him is to compete in open working hunter classes, following some success in RoR classes this summer.

Continued below…

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Carruthers, who was owned and bred by the late Lord Oaksey and his family and trained by his son-in-law Mark Bradstock, has been a huge part of the Bradstock/Oaksey family.

Since retiring from racing, Carruthers has enjoyed a varied life — from leading the field out drag hunting to giving children rides in the sand school at Mark and his wife Sara’s yard near Newbury.

He has also been a successful point-to-point schoolmaster for the couple’s daughter, Lily, who will be riding him on Saturday.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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The popular grey steeplechaser Smad Place, who triumphed in the 2015 Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury, has been retired at the age of 11.

The French-bred son of Smadoun has picked up a suspensory ligament injury prompting his trainer Alan King and owners Trish and Peter Andrew to call time on his brilliant career. He will return to his owners for his retirement.

The gelding captured the heart of many a racing fan thanks to his bold jumping and front-running enthusiasm. His success on the racecourse saw him amass winnings of just under of £500,000.

He won the 2015 Hennessy by an impressive 12 lengths and contested the Cheltenham Festival every year between 2011 until 2017 — finishing third in the Stayers’ Hurdle in 2012 and also in 2013, before taking the runner-up spot in the RSA Chase the following year.

“Smad Place has damaged his right-fore suspensory ligament and, while it is not too serious, this was always going to be his last season and with it being enough to stop we have decided to call it a day. It could have been worse — it could have happened earlier in his career,” said Alan, who is based at Barbury Castle in Wiltshire.

“Barbury won’t be the same without him. This year will be the first time that he hasn’t gone to Cheltenham for eight years.”

The trainer added: “He has been a wonderful horse for us and there are so many magnificent memories. The Hennessy has to be top of the pile. It’s one of the iconic races of the season and run at our local course — to win it was very exciting.”

Smad Place came over from France as a three-year-old in 2010 and joined Alan’s yard. He won three times over hurdles before establishing himself as a high-class chaser.

He had three attempts at the Gold Cup, with his best result coming in 2016 when he finished sixth.

His most recent victory came in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree in October under his regular jockey Wayne Hutchinson — he was also ridden by “Choc” Thornton in the early days before the jockey’s retirement.

Wayne paid tribute to the special grey gelding on social media, tweeting: “Happy retirement to my mate Smad. You had a great innings and did everyone associated with you very proud.”

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Barbers Shop will return to the races on Saturday (2 December) to parade for the crowds at Newbury’s Ladbrokes Winter Carnival.

The Queen’s ex-racehorse, who has had a highly-successful second career in the show ring, will be joined by three other popular chasers in the paddock – including two former winners of the meeting’s feature race.

These are his former stablemate Bobs Worth, Carruthers and Rocky Creek.

All four horses have finished in the frame of the meeting’s feature race, the Ladbrokes Trophy – formerly known as the Hennessy Gold Cup.

Carruthers triumphed in the 2011 race, with Bobs Worth winning the following year.

Barbers Shop’s best finish in the Grade One chase was in 2009, where he finished fourth. Meanwhile, Rocky Creek was runner-up to Triolo D’Alene in the 2013 race.

The four horses will parade in the paddock ahead of the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Memorial Handicap Chase at 1.20pm.

They will lead the runners out of the paddock and parade in front of the grandstand as the field heads to the start.

Sara Bradstock, whose daughter Lily will be riding Carruthers in Saturday’s parade, said the ex-racer does “pretty much whatever he chooses”.

“He loves and deserves all the attention he gets and is delightfully enthusiastic in any role,” she said.

“He is known in the yard as ‘The Boss’ and always will be.”

Continued below…

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Newly-retired Rocky Creek, who ran his last race in March, has enjoyed a holiday and started his retraining process on the hunting field with the plan to aim him at some Retraining of Racehorses classes next year.

Katie Jerram announced Barbers Shop would be retiring from the show ring at the end of 2017.

He will now enjoy hunting and continuing to parade at racecourses, which she told H&H is something he “loves doing”.

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Hennessy’s Gold Cup sponsorship has come to an end after 60 years.

There had been speculation that the deal would not be extended, and today’s (Tuesday, 6 December) news marks the end of one of the longest-running sponsorship partnerships in sport.

The 60th and final Hennessy Gold Cup, held at Newbury on 26 November, was won by Native River and Richard Johnson (pictured).

“For anyone with even a passing interest in jump racing, the Hennessy Gold Cup has been a race that has captured the imagination,” said Dominic Burke, chairman of Newbury racecourse.

“It has helped to identify future stars, confirmed existing champions and produced as much emotion and excitement as almost any other race in the calendar.

“We are enormously grateful to several generations of the Hennessy family and the company’s management team for their wonderful support of such a special event.

“But everything comes to an end at some point and it is fitting that the sponsorship is drawing to a close after such a thrilling race to mark the 60th Hennessy Gold Cup as the highlight of two wonderful days of top-class jump racing last month.”

The first three Hennessy Gold Cups were held at Cheltenham, between 1957-59. From 1960 onwards the race has been held at Newbury.

Past winners of the race include Arkle, Many Clouds, Bobs Worth, Denman — who won it twice in 2007 and 2009 — and Triolo D’Alene.

Article continues below…

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Jo Thornton, managing director of Moët Hennessy UK, said Hennessy has enjoyed “60 wonderful years” of sponsoring the race.

“Over the decades, the race has been won by many extraordinary and courageous horses, jockeys and trainers,” he said.

“We are enormously grateful to the directors and team at Newbury, who have always delivered racing of the highest quality, at one of the UK’s most iconic racecourses. “Hennessy are proud to have worked with Newbury in creating such an important and enjoyable day in the racing calendar. We wish them every continued success.”

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Denman “thoroughly enjoyed” being back at the site of one of his most famous victories at the weekend, when he took to the track at Newbury.

The 16-year-old gelding paraded for the crowds at Newbury racecourse on Saturday (13 February) ahead of the race named in his honour, the Grade Two Denman Chase.

“Denman thoroughly enjoyed parading at Newbury – he flew down the course in front of the stands,” his rider Charlotte Alexander told H&H.

“Now he knows where the exit is, he is a little easier to pull up after the winning post!

“We had one hairy moment when circling prior to galloping down the course. He tried to lock onto the white railings and for one moment I thought we were going to jump them.”

The race was won by the Venetia Williams-trained Houblon Des Obeaux, ridden by Aidan Coleman.

As well as winning the Denman Chase (then the Aon) in 2008, Denman also won the Berkshire track’s showpiece race — the Hennessy Gold Cup — twice (2007 and 2009).

Denman, who was trained by champion trainer Paul Nicholls in Somerset, has been based with Charlotte Alexander in Gloucestershire since 2012.

The popular chaser has settled in nicely to a new career in hunting and team chasing in his retirement.

“Denman did seem to be in a particularly good mood on Saturday and was totally unfazed when Mr Barber [his owner] suggested that people came into the paddock to pat him,” Charlotte added.

“He stood stock still while his fans including young children made a huge fuss over him. The children loved his soft nose.

“He was rather fresh on exercise this morning (Monday, 15 February) and I expect he will be a bit of a handful out hunting on Saturday.”

Denman is now being prepared for the team chase season, which is due to start in the middle of March.

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“He has been hunting regularly with the Beaufort and had the odd day visiting the Blackmore Vale, Heythrop and Fernie this season,” Charlotte added.

“He has been training with Brian Hutton of Talland in order to make him more careful out hunting.

“This training has definitely helped his jumping and both jockey and horse are now more confident over an upright set of rails!”

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Fans of Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Denman will be able to see the former racing star at Newbury this weekend.

The 16-year-old gelding will be parading for the crowds at Newbury racecourse tomorrow (Saturday, 13 February) ahead of the race named in his honour, the Denman Chase.

As well as winning the Denman Chase (then the Aon) in 2008, the gelding also won the Berkshire track’s showpiece race — the Hennessy Gold Cup — twice (2007 and 2009).

Denman, who was trained by champion trainer Paul Nicholls in Somerset, has been based with Charlotte Alexander in Gloucestershire since 2012.

The popular chaser has settled in nicely to a new career in hunting and team chasing in his retirement.

“Denman is in rude health,” Charlotte told H&H.

He is now being prepared for the team chase season, which is due to start in the middle of March.

“He has been hunting regularly with the Beaufort and had the odd day visiting the Blackmore Vale, Heythrop and Fernie this season,” she added.

“He has been training with Brian Hutton of Talland in order to make him more careful out hunting.

“This training has definitely helped his jumping and both jockey and horse are now more confident over an upright set of rails!”

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Denman won his first rosette last October, when he took part in the intermediate at the Pytchley in Northants (11 October), partnered by Charlotte. The team finished second.

Charlotte said the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner “absolutely loved it”.

“He found it easy and was very pleased with himself,” she added. “I’m thrilled with him as he is improving all the time.”

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Champion trainer Paul Nicholls is saddling the strongly fancied Saphir Du Rheu in this year’s Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury — a race close to the trainer’s heart.

The six-year-old gelding will come up against 16 other rivals on Saturday (28 November) in the three-and-a-quarter mile handicap chase, worth a record £200,000. He will be partnered by Paul’s first jockey Sam Twiston-Davies, under a top weight of 11st 12Ib.

The Somerset-based handler, who has lifted the champion National Hunt trainer title an impressive nine times, has an outstanding association with the Hennessy Gold Cup — both in the saddle and as a trainer.

“To have ridden and trained winners of the Hennessy Gold Cup, I obviously feel very privileged. It’s just amazing really and I never dreamt that would happen — I feel I’ve been incredibly lucky,” says Paul.

Continued below…

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His first training victory came in 2003 with Strong Flow before the unequalled Denman romped home twice to win in 2007 and 2009.

Paul and his great rival Nicky Henderson hold the record, out of racing’s current trainers, for the most wins in the prestigious race — having notched up three triumphs each. Only the great Fulke Walwyn has won the race more times as a trainer.

Before turning his attention to training, Paul also claimed double victory in the Hennessy as a jockey. First in 1986 riding Broadheath, despite a mistake at the third last where Paul got thrown forward out of the saddle.

“I remember jumping the last and the roar from the crowd was absolutely incredible. To win was phenomenal — I never thought I’d ever be good enough to ride horses like that,” he says.

A year later, he returned to Newbury to take another Hennessy win aboard Playschool in 1987. With fellow jockey-turned-trainer Andy Turnell, the two men are the only two in the race’s history to have won both as a jockey and then as a trainer.

Don’t miss the full report from the Hennessy in the 3 December issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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As the focus turns to Newbury racecourse this week (26-28 November) for the bet365 Festival — featuring the Hennessy Gold Cup — where some of the country’s top jump horses will battle it out, we take a look at the race’s most interesting facts:

1. This year will be the 59th running of the Hennessy Gold Cup.

2. The sponsorship by Hennessy has been passed down through eight generations of the Hennessy family.

3. This year’s three-day Festival has seen an £85,000 increase in total prize-money — the Hennessy Gold Cup is now valued at £200,000.

Continued below…

A day in the life of champion trainer Paul Nicholls *PICTURES*

With around 120 horses in residence at Manor Farm Stables in Somerset, it’s a 24-7 job for Champion National Hunt

4. Six new chase fences have been re-built around the course.

5. Newbury racecourse, where the Hennessy is run, is undergoing a facelift next year — to include a new parade ring, saddling-up boxes and a new owners and trainers facility.

6. The Hennessy was first run at Cheltenham in 1957, it moved to Newbury three years later.

7. Hennessy has been associated with the race since it began making it the longest running commercial sponsorship in British racing.

8. There have been three dual winners of the prestigious race — Mandarin (1957 and 1961), Arkle (1964 and 1965) and Denman (2007 and 2009).

9. The most successful trainer of the Hennessy is the late Fulke Walwyn, who notched up seven victories.

10. The late Lord Oaksey has been the only amateur jockey to ever win the race — aboard Taxidermist in 1958.

11. Champion trainer Paul Nicholls has both trained and ridden Hennessy winners. He triumphed riding Broadheath (1986) and Playschool (1987), and then went on to train Strong Flow (2003) and Denman (2007 and 2009) to victory.

12. There have been 23 seven-year-old winners, 11 six-year-olds and 11 eight-year-olds.

13. Five greys have been triumphant — Stalbridge Colonist (1966), One Man (1994), Suny Bay (1997), Teeton Mill (1998) and What’s Up Boys (2001).

14. The biggest field came in 1962 when there were 27 runners.

15. The longest-priced winner was Sibton Abbey in 1992 — he was a 40/1 outsider.

16. A total of 30 winners have carried 11-stone or more to victory.

17. Four horses have made the impressive feat of winning both the Hennessy Gold Cup and Cheltenham Gold Cup in the same season — Arkle, Bregawn, Denman and Bobs Worth.

18. Last year’s victor, Many Clouds, is the only horse to have won both the Hennessy and the Grand National in the same season. His owner, Trevor Hemmings, also took the honours in 2005 with Trabolgan.

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British jewellery designer Theo Fennell has created the first Al Shaqab Lockinge trophy for the winning owner of the big race at Newbury this weekend (16 May).

Al Shaqab has taken over the sponsoring of the Lockinge day at Newbury after winning the prestigious race last year with Olympic Glory.

The new sponsorship means the value of the group one Lockinge Stakes is up 64% to £350,000.

First run in 1958, the feature race has been won by many famous horses, including Frankel in 2012.

“The Al Shaqab Lockinge is a race very close to our hearts having won it last year,” said Harry Herbert, racing advisor to Al Shaqab.

“We felt it was essential to honour the achievements of the winner appropriately. What better way to do that than with a trophy designed and made by the world famous British jeweller, Theo Fennell.”

The solid silver trophy is hand engraved and hallmarked in London by a team of silversmiths using traditional techniques.

Theo Fennell said the piece “reflects the importance of the race, the traditions of Newbury racecourse and the deep commitment of Al Shaqab to this great sport”.

Al Shaqab Racing’s five-year sponsorship of the Lockinge Stakes Day at Newbury Racecourse increases the total prize money available on the day by 125%.

There are seven races on the card including two new races: the Olympic Glory Conditions Stakes for two-year-olds run over 6 furlongs worth £50,000; and the Planteur Handicap, over a mile, worth £40,000.

Al Shaqab Racing began in 2011 in Arab racing and has achieved multiple Group 1 wins in the sport, including the Khalia Classic two years in a row. Since moving into throughbred racing the organisation has enjoyed great success winning major Group 1 titles including The Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, The Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot, The Lockinge Stakes and the Qatar Airways Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp twice with superstar filly, Treve.

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After nearly two decades at the top of the sport, 19-times Champion National Hunt jockey AP McCoy is to retire at the end of the season.

The popular jockey announced his plans this afternoon (Saturday 7 February) at Newbury after securing his 200th win of the season.

The milestone came aboard the Paul Nicholls-trained Mr Mole in the Betfair Price Rush Chase, and is the ninth time he’s secured a double century.

“This is the last time I’ll ride 200 winners as I’m going to be retiring at the end of the season,” he told Channel 4 Racing.

“I want to go out at the top, and as champion jockey. I want to go out while I still enjoy riding.”

It was a shock revelation, and a decision he said had been made following discussions with owner JP McManus and his long-standing agent Dave Roberts.

“I’m very lucky to have had a great way of life for the past 25 years,” he added.

“I’ve spoken to JP and Dave and 20 championships seemed a good number. Time waits for no man in sport and it’s not going to wait for me. I will really miss it. I love riding, I love the thrill of it and I’ll never find anything to replace that buzz but I’m aware in sport you can’t keep going forever.”

AP, who is 40 years old, has now won 4,322 races, a phenomenal achievement, with the ground-breaking 4,000th win coming in November 2013.

In 2010 he was the first jockey to win the BBC Sports Personality of the year award, and in 2013 he finished third in the SPOTY race.

“He’s brilliant, he’s a pleasure to have anything to do with and is a great ambassador for the sport. He’s such a legend and everyone will miss him,” said winning trainer Paul Nicholls.

For more on AP McCoy’s retirement, as well as full racing report from Newbury and exclusive comment from Richard Johnson, don’t miss the next issue of H&H magazine — out Thursday 12 February.

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This Saturday (7 February 2015) National Hunt Star and 2014 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner Sire De Grugy will make a much-anticipated return to action in the Betfair Price Rush Chase at Newbury (Game Spirit), after coming back from injury.

But what is the horse like and how did he end up at Gary Moore’s West Sussex yard? We give you the low down.

A birthday treat

When owner Steve Preston turned 50 his friends and family teamed up to buy him a racehorse.

“They had all put money into a bank account — which they told me I had to spend on a horse,” he says.

“I’d always wanted to own a racehorse but never had the justification before. So I approached Gary Moore, who said he’d take a 25% share, as long as he made the rules.

“He found a good horse in France, but at E50k I needed a couple of friends to join me in ownership. We went for it and it’s been an absolute dream, I’ve had so much fun. I’m really excited just thinking about this season — even if he’s beaten he’s been fantastic and has fulfilled everything we could have hoped for.”

A one-man horse

At home the only person other than jockey Jamie Moore to sit on the horse is Jamie’s three-year-old daughter.

And he has only been ridden in a race once by someone other than Jamie — at Aintree in 2012 when he was partnered by Jamie’s brother Joshua.

“If it were 100 years ago Sire De Grugy would be the ideal horse to go into battle with — he does all you ask of him,” says Jamie. “There wouldn’t be a day goes by that I don’t ride him and I know him inside out.”

The gelding will have a home for life after his racing days are over.

“Jamie’s already asked to have him when he reties and of course I’ve said yes,” says owner Steve.

“He’d be the best boxer in the world…”

Sire De Grugy is apparently not a fan of clipping — and woe betide anyone who touches his back legs.

“He’s got a great temperament though he can be tricky if people annoy him,” says Jamie. “He’s not so keen on my dad as he knows he clips him, and he’s not a fan of the farrier, but he seems to likes me!”

Dad Gary adds: “He’s a fantastic horse to train — he’s good at everything. He’s especially good at picking up his back legs. If he was a boxer he would be the best in the world with the range of power from those legs…”

Champion Chase victory

The most famous victory for the nine-year-old by My Risk came in last March’s Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

Surrounded by his army of owners in red, blue and white scarves he received a fittingly uproarious welcome into the winners’ enclosure.

“At the beginning of the season he was 66-1 to win the Champion Chase. I put 20 on almost for fun — for that to happen was unreal,” says Steve.

And jockey Jamie Moore wasn’t left out — his weighing room colleagues abandoned their posts and ran out to the paddock to hoist aloft the winning rider.

Even Jamie’s brother, leading Flat jockey Ryan Moore, was there to celebrate. “It must have been special as he doesn’t go to much,” laughs Jamie.

Don’t miss our full racing report from Newbury in the 12 February issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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Former National Hunt hero Denman will be parading for his fans at Newbury racecourse tomorrow (Saturday 7 February).

Denman will return to his favourite track to parade ahead of the race named in his honour — the Denman Chase.

As well as winning this in 2008, the gelding also won the Berkshire track’s showpiece race — the Hennessy Gold Cup — twice (2007 and 2009).

Denman now lives in Gloucestershire with Charlotte Alexander.

“Denman does very few parades as he is busy hunting,” Charlotte told H&H.

“He loves parading before his race at Newbury though. He particularly likes hearing all the clapping when walking round the ring and the cheering when galloping back past the stands having led the runners out onto the track.

“Denman knows he is a star and deserves all the praise lavished upon him — is an exceptionally brave horse”.

The winner of the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup has made a remarkable recovery after suffering an illness in 2013. Denman spent five months in equine hospital after contracting a potentially fatal blood and bone infection. But now he’s back to his old self.

This season the 15-year-old has really got to grips with his new sport and is proving a popular sight on the hunting field.

“He has taken ages to build up strength and muscle and he is now progressing in leaps and bounds. He is such a happy horse and it is incredible that he is able to leap across the country as he does. He is like a spitfire, quick, exciting and beautiful,” added Charlotte.

Also due back on the track on Betfair Super Saturday is Champion Chase-winner Sire De Grugy, who hasn’t run since winning the bet365 Celebration Chase in April.

The Gary Moore-trained gelding was due to run earlier this season but suffered a hip injury. However the trainer said the horse is now “fit and well” is due to run in the Grade Two Betfair Price Rush Steeple Chase on Saturday.

The Denman Chase is run at 2.25pm and the Betfair Price Rush Steeple Chase is at 3pm. Both will be shown on Channel 4.

For more information visit: www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

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Sprinter Sacre delighted fans and connections in a racecourse gallop at Newbury yesterday (Monday 29 December) — and is set to return to racing next month.

The popular chaser has not been seen in action since last December, when he pulled up in the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton due to an irregular heartbeat.

Sprinter Sacre was on his toes in the paddock at Newbury, looking well as he paraded for fans before he worked.

He was then joined by stablemate Tanks For That as he completed 1m5f of the Berkshire track — tackling five fences down the back straight before galloping home in front of the stands under regular jockey Barry Geraghty.

Despite a slight mistake at the second fence, in which he took off too early, trainer Nicky Henderson was pleased with the way Sprinter Sacre worked — and said he will now be aimed at the Clarence House Chase at Ascot on 17 January.

“That was perfect and it’s a massive step in the right direction,” said Nicky.

Barry wasn’t unhappy with the mistake, saying it showed the horse “wanted to have a bit of a go” at the fence. He added that the horse was “full of it” and back to his old self.

The winner of the 2013 Champion Chase at Cheltenham had won 10 chases in a row before being pulled up by Barry on 27 December 2013. The horse was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, which has since corrected itself, but vet Celia Marr, who treated the horse, was on hand at Newbury to observe.

Nicky has been monitoring his stable star carefully all year, and ruled him out of the 2014 Champion Chase as well as the Tingle Creek at the beginning of December. He was deemed “not ready” but in full health by Nicky.

However, as Nicky had been pleased with Sprinter Sacre’s work in recent weeks, he decided to work the gelding before racing at his local track, where he was welcomed by the crowd.

“It’s nice to see him back and see that he’s still appreciated. I’m very grateful to Newbury and it will put him right for Ascot next month; he’s had a right good blow there,” he added.

Julian Thicke, of Newbury racecourse added that he was “delighted” to see Sprinter Sacre back on the racecourse.

“He’s one of the greatest steeplechasers we’ve ever seen and it was lovely for everyone here to see him in full flight before racing,” he said.

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Popular chaser Sprinter Sacre is to work at Newbury ahead of racing next week (Monday 29 December).

The winner of the 2013 Champion Chase at Cheltenham has been out of action since last December when he pulled up in the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton.

He had won 10 chases in a row before being pulled up due to an irregular heartbeat, which then corrected itself.

The eight-year-old gelding to ruled out of the 2014 race, as he was ruled by his trainer Nicky Henderson as “not showing the same brilliance as he did last season”.

After the summer Sprinter Sacre was due to run in the Tingle Creek at the beginning of December — a race he won in 2012 — but was deemed “not ready” but in full health by trainer Nicky Henderson.

Nicky has reportedly been pleased with his star’s work in recent weeks and so wants to give the eight-year-old a racecourse gallop before the horse races again.

Sprinter Sacre will work before fans at Newbury’s Christmas meeting under regular jockey Barry Geraghty.

The gelding will be in the parade ring at 11.30am and will complete a circuit of the course at 11.45am with a stablemate — jumping fences in the home straight.

“We are delighted that the highest profile horse in jump racing will be working and schooling at Newbury on Monday under his regular rider Barry Geraghty,” said Newbury’s Andy Clifton.

“It is a great gesture by Nicky Henderson to allow this to happen on our Festive raceday, so that as many people as possible can see Sprinter Sacre back on the racecourse.”

For more information visit: www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

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The race is on to find the next budding AP McCoy. Twenty-four pony riders from up and down the country will converge on Newbury Racecourse on 21 September for the finals of the 2014 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.

Last year’s 138cm final winner, James Bowen, the 13-year-old son of Welsh trainer Peter Bowen, will contest the 148cm final this time round, while other notable names in the line-ups include Abbie and Ella McCain, daughters of Grand National winning trainer Donald McCain, and Jonjo O’Neil’s two sons, Jonjo O’Neill (Jnr) and AJ O’Neill.

Clarissa Daly, chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) said: “We are so grateful to Newbury Racecourse for staging these prestigious finals and to Charles Owen who have supported pony racing since 2005. Pony racing graduates are really beginning to make their mark in the jockey ranks — both as amateurs and professionals. The sport provides a fantastic beginning for all those who want to work in the industry either by riding or in other jobs.”

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People keen to get into racing will have the opportunity to do so, as an entire day of racing is dedicated to newcomers.

On Saturday 20 April at Newbury racecourse, racegoers will be able to have a go at riding a finish with a jockey, try commentating, learn all about betting and meet a racehorse.

The day marks the racecourse’s first Flat fixture of the season and features the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials. This new venture is part of the Inside Track campaign, launched by the racecourse to introduce more people to the sport, and will combine top quality racing with an array of masterclasses in racing and betting.

Specially designed zones will be set up to explain different aspects of racing. In the “Betting Zone”, a demo bookmakers pitch will be set up and friendly betting buddies will be on hand to guide punters through the betting ring.

In the “Horse Zone”, racegoers will get the chance to meet a racehorse, while in the “Jockey Zone” they will be able ride a race finish with a jockey, and try commentating a simulated race.

Newbury’s Stephen Higgins said: “We’re particularly proud of the efforts we make to welcome first time racegoers at Newbury and help inform them about the racing and betting in an interesting way.”

At the new Inside Track booth, staff will be on hand to answer any questions, and a racegoers’ guide will give useful tips on how to enjoy a day at the races. You can also go behind the scenes with tours to the start, saddling boxes and weighing room.

Gates open at 11am and the first race is at 1.15pm, and ticket prices start from £16. Stephen Higgins added: “For anyone wondering what a day’s racing is all about, then this should be the perfect day with fantastic racing too.”

For more information visit: www.racecoursenewbury.co.uk

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Newbury racecourse was last week named “racecourse of the year” for the seventh time in eight years.

The Berkshire track picked up the award at the annual Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) Awards held in London on 30 November.

ROA members voted Newbury, home of the Hennessy Gold Cup, as the course of the year. Other racecourses on the shortlist included Ascot, Sandown and York.

“Newbury is honoured to be recognised as the ‘Racecourse of the Year’ once again,” said managing director of Newbury Stephen Higgins.

“The vote is down to ROA members and their experiences at all racecourses. This award is a true reflection of what a great venue Newbury is and the dedication of the entire team and we are very grateful to the ROA and its members for voting for us”.

For more information visit: www.newbury-racecourse.co.uk

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Plans for the redevelopment of the central area of Newbury racecourse have been approved, ensuring the project is still on course for the start of next year.

The redevelopment will focus on the improvements to racing and hospitality and a range of apartments along The Mile Straight.

This approval follows an earlier consent in September for family homes in the western area.

“This will significantly improve the racing experience – particularly for the racing staff, trainers and owners,”said Newbury racecourse’s Sarah Hordern.

“It will enable us to provide stable staff with overnight en-suite accommodation that will set new standards of comfort and welfare. There will also be a new horse walk and refurbished stables as well as a dedicated owners’ and trainers’ car park and entrance.”

The plans have been welcomed by the racing industry.

Chief executive of the National Association of Stable Staff Jim Cornelius said: “Newbury racecourse has proved the value it places on the stable staff by investing in and providing the very best, dedicated raceday facilities for them.”

Ms Hordern added: “The redevelopment will enable us to safeguard the future of racing at Newbury and the heritage of this 1905 course.

“Throughout the works racing will continue – it will be business as usual.”

The project is expected to take 12-years with building starting in late spring/ early summer 2012.

Around 300 new jobs for local people will be created as a result of the redevelopment.

For more information visit: www.newbury-racecourse.co.uk

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Racing successfully united with other equestrian disciplines at Newbury’s inaugural Celebration of the Horse raceday last weekend.

The raceday, on Saturday 26 March, hosted a bumper crowd of 9,000 racegoers — including 400 British Equestrian Federation (BEF) members who went racing for free.

“The equestrian community received a wonderfully warm welcome and it was great to see so many people out in support of the joint venture,” said Claire Shand from the BEF.

“Demos and interactive trade stands showcased the breadth of horse sport in Britain which complimented a fantastic day of racing. There was a really positive buzz, which was extremely heartening for all involved.”

The day also raised funds for the Riding for the Disabled Association — boosted by a charity bet by chef d’equipe of the British eventing team Yogi Breisner, which netted £1,115 for the charity when the Nicky Henderson-trained Line Freedom won EBF mares’ “National Hunt” novices finale.

“Newbury Racecourse and the British Equestrian Federation did a great job today of bringing together the different equestrian sports and it has been wonderful to see everyone working together,” said Yogi.

The day was planned by a group of students from the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester and Hartpury and Sparsholt Colleges.

Representatives from the disciplines of dressage, showjumping, eventing, polocrosse, endurance and carriage driving attended, as well as those from The Pony Club and the British Racing School.

As well as seven races there was a ridden parade in the paddock before racing. There was also a training demo by Yogi Breisner and eventer Lauren Shannon and her horse Zero Flight. And dressage rider Matt Hicks and grand prix horse Ferro’s Indulgence along with Kim Seaby and Rubin-Esque showed off some dressage to music.

Endurance World Class potential squad member Rachael Claridge and her dellovely homebred part-Arab gelding, Prince Meliodas, represented Endurance GB in the parade.

EGB’s Nikki Routledge said: “We gave out around 200 information packs and hope this day will prove very beneficial in promoting endurance to more riders.”

Stephen Higgins, joint managing director of Newbury racecourse added: “It was a wonderful demonstration of the versatility of the horse and we look forward to supporting Team GB when they fly the British flag at this year’s European Championships and through to London 2012.

“With the obvious synergies between horseracing and the equestrian disciplines it is great to have an opportunity to show our support”.

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Members of British Dressage, British Showjumping, British Eventing and the British Equestrian Federation’s other affiliated bodies can go racing at Newbury for free next month.

The raceday, on 26 March, is Newbury’s last jumps card of the season and will feature equestrian-themed activities as well as seven races, with the aim of uniting racing and the equestrian world.

World Class Performance Manager and Chef d’Equipe of the British Eventing Team Yogi Breisner will be speaking about the work in the approach to the London 2012 Olympics. And displays, including a dressage demo, will start from 12pm in the parade ring.

Pony Club “unmounted” games displays as well as polocrosse and vaulting demos will be held as part of the inaugural Celebration of the Horse raceday.

The raceday is a result of the Student Equestrian Challenge in which students from the Royal Agriculture College, Hartpury and Sparsholt Colleges competed to come up with a schedule to promote horsesport and racing together.

The winning concept came from Jenny Lewis and Harriet Evans of Hartpury.

A Pony Club spokesman said: “It will be good to showcase what’s on offer to the equestrian and racing public.”

To receive free tickets call 01635 40015 quoting your membership number.

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (24 February, 2011)

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Accidental electrocution has been confirmed as the cause of death of two horses killed in the paddock at Newbury racecourse on Saturday (12 February).

The rescheduled race meeting — The Totesport Trophy Hurdle Meeting — will take place tomorrow (Friday 18 February).

Marching Song, trained by Andy Turnell and the Jonjo O’Neill trained Fenix Two both collapsed and died after suffering an electric shock in the parade ring before the first race.

Post mortem results from the horses, returned today (Thursday 17 February), show sudden cardiac arrest as the cause of death for both horses.

Investigations show an electrical discharge in the area killed the horses.

“The Authority has been officially informed that there was leakage of electricity from a cable under the parade ring in the area where the incident occurred,” said Professor Tim Morris, director of equine science and welfare at the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).

He added that samples taken from the horses affected showed “no evidence of substances” that could have caused the incident.

“These findings are all consistent with the cause of death being accidental electrocution and at this stage we are not investigating any other cause of death,” he said.

He also confirmed that the post mortems had shown no evidence of any burn marks around the horses’ mouths.

“There was immediate veterinary attention, and our enquiry on the day noted the racecourse veterinary surgeons felt a tingling sensation when examining the horses, and that the veterinary surgeons noted particular clinical signs such as muscle contractions,” he added.

An electric cable previously located within the parade ring has now been removed and disconnected. And Newbury racecourse and Southern Electric Power Distribution have assured the BHA that the area is safe to be used.

Stephen Higgins, joint managing director of Newbury racecourse added: “The investigation by Southern Electric Power Distribution continues, to establish the cause of the electrical leakage. I would like to stress again that Southern Electric has confirmed that there was no danger to the public on Saturday.

“Once again we would like to extend our condolences to the connections of those horses and will continue to liaise with those affected.”

A wider review is still ongoing and a report will be published at a later date.

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Newbury racecourse cancelled racing on Saturday 12 February after two horses dropped dead in the parade ring before the first race of the day.

Fenix Two and Marching Song both collapsed and fell to the ground at the western end of the paddock. An investigation has been started following speculation that they may have been electrocuted.

The remaining runners made it down to the start, where they were checked by a vet before the novice hurdle race went ahead. Trainer Nicky Henderson withdrew his runner Kid Cassidy after his horse also behaved oddly in the parade ring.

Newbury stipendiary steward Paul Barton confirmed that a post-mortem will be carried out on the two horses that died.

Newbury chairman Christopher Spence told the BBC: “It’s a nightmare for everybody. We can’t be certain what it is, we all think it’s electric, but we don’t know.”

The decision to abandoned the meeting was made before the second race and all tickets are to be refunded.

Fenix Two was an unraced six-year-old owned by JP McManus, while five-year-old Marching Song had raced eight times including twice over hurdles.

Listen to interview with Stephen Higgins, Newbury racecourse managing director, talking about the incident

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Romantic racegoers will be able to pop the question in style this Valentine’s weekend at Newbury racecourse.

Newbury is to site a “lover’s bench” on the lawn for amorous punters to propose to their loved ones during racing on 13 February.

The single white bench sits with Newbury’s classic benches overlooking the finishing straight.

“The White Bench proposal concept has been in the pipeline for a while, but we decided to wait for a romantic period to launch it,” said Harriet Rochester, marketing manager for Newbury.

“A day at the races is always memorable, but we hope that for some couples this idea will make the memory of that special day last a lifetime.”

There is no need to book, but to add a special touch racegoers can contact the course in advance to arrange flowers, complimentary champagne, a photographer and even personal announcements over the public address system.

Newbury is not the only racecourse to play Cupid — the first 500 racegoers at Exeter on 14 February will receive a free chocolate heart.

For more information, visit www.newbury-racecourse.co.uk

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (21 January, ’10)

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Racegoers celebrating a milestone anniversary or a birthday this summer could win free tickets to Newbury races.

To mark the anniversaries of this year’s Party in the Paddock acts, Newbury Racecourse is offering free tickets to those who are also celebrating milestones of their own.

Newbury is giving away a free pair of tickets to anyone celebrating their 30-year wedding anniversary in May, 10 year wedding anniversary in July or 25 year wedding anniversary in August.

And tickets are also free if your birthday falls on the date of the concerts — 30th May, 10th July or 15th August.

“This year’s Party in the Paddock line-up sees Madness celebrating 30 years, while Mamma Mia, the ABBA musical celebrates 10 years making Björn Again a hot ticket. Finally, Simply Red are celebrating their 25 years in music with a farewell tour and we have some great giveaways to celebrate all three milestones,” said Kate Walthew from Newbury racecourse.

For more information visit: www.newbury-racecourse.co.uk

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Newbury’s centrepiece — the three-day Hennessy Winter Festival— will finish a day earlier this year than in previous years.

For the first time ever Newbury’s three-day Hennessy Winter Festival will finish on Hennessy Gold Cup day, Saturday 29 November.

First run in 1957 the Hennessy attracts top steeplechasers with past winners including Mill House (1963), the legendary Arkle (1964/65), Burrough Hill Lad (1984) and popular greys One Man (1994) and Suny Bay (1997).

Last week Paul Nicholls announced that last year’s Hennessy winner Denman — who went on to win the 2008 Gold Cup — would not be returning to defend his title after vets discovered he had an irregular heartbeat.

Last year’s event attracted celebrities including Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster, singer James Blunt and actor James Nesbitt.

www.newbury-racecourse.co.uk

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The Ex-Racers Club, which organises the re-homing of racehorses, is holding a memorial race at Newbury on Saturday 12 April for one of their earliest members, Sian O’Gorman.

Sian O’Gorman lived in Lambourn working freelance for many racehorse trainers as driver and bookkeeper until her untimely death from cancer last year.

Sian was instrumental in the successful re-homing of many racehorses, some of which can be seen in the parade of ex-racehorses at Newbury on Saturday.

Newbury was chosen as the venue for the Sian O’Gorman Novices Memorial Chase because it was Sian’s local course and she ran her own horse “Mother Says” there.

Every member of the Ex-Racers Club has assisted with fundraising for the event but donations are still welcome for the running of the race.

If you would like to contribute, email Lisa Horne, Ex-Racers Club Area Representative for more details on ex.racers@btinternet.com

Bob Champion will present the winners trophies.

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