Author: Peter McNeile

£25,000 races aren’t two a penny in Stratford’s calendar, particularly for higher rated horses. But even weight stops a train, and so it turned out on Monday when favourite and top weight Arclight, successful here is a similar contest a month ago, had to play second fiddle to a horse rated 26lbs his junior at the bottom of the handicap.

The Brian & Sheila Vaughan Memorial Handicap Chase was the race for seven year old Magistrato, fit as a flea and keen as mustard for trainer Deborah Cole and rider Ben Jones, who made his intent very clear from the off, setting off keenly in front and staying there throughout, to win by 11l.

Magistrato may be a cast-off from the Paul Nicholls stable, but he’s proved great value for owners the D & s Partnership, this being his third chase win in 15 outings, just three of which he’s failed to reach the frame. He may not be an improving type, but rated 108, there are more races to win with his attitude and with clever placing.

Sadly, however, he was one of just 43 runners spread across 7 races on Monday’s card. Just two races made full each way betting.

That won’t have worried Shark Hanlon, who made the 350 mile journey from Carlow for the opening 3 runner D & H Novices Limited Handicap Chase with Topgun Simmy. Ridden by son Paddy, the six year old wasn’t foot perfect, but tracked the field in rear until 3 out, when making his move. The opposition, which included Ballintubber Boy, a winner of 7 of his 16 hurdle starts but yet to score over fences, was spent, allowing Hanlon jnr a comfortable 3 1/4l win to get punters off to a good start.

A paltry 4 runners faced the starter for the 2m 6f Novices hurdle, especially for the 1,000 or so Racing TV club members who were able to take advantage of free entry. Favouritism vied between Southwell winner Don Virginia and Jamie Snowden’s Knights Affair, and it was the latter who prevailed after an extended tussle, a nose separating them at the line. Neither won marks for jumping fluency however, which might find them out in a larger field with a faster pace.

A somewhat easier task fell to Varinia, 7l winner of the George & Dragon Handicap Hurdle that followed. A pile-up at the first conspired to reduce the 8 runner field by 2 when the Kim Bailey – trained Faerie Cutlass tried to refuse at the first, hampering three others, including the winner and Miz Klimt, who unseated Sean Grantham.

Varinia evidently appreciates a sharp track, her best previous form at Fakenham. She was a second winner from just 14 runners for Stuart Edmunds, who is normally well stocked for summer jumpers.

Sean Bowen rode the first of two winners in the next, the National Racehorse Week August 23 – 31 Handicap Hurdle. in 2024, 100 stables opened their doors for over 200 separate events, and this year is proving just as popular. Readers long in the tooth will recall the popularity of David Nicholson’s annual open day at Condicote then Jackdaws Castle. This modern day brainchild of trainer Richard Phillips is a hugely popular alternative details of which can be found here.

Winning trainer James Owen is not among those participating, but given the frequency of winners emanating from his yard, this is not such a big thing. Jet Patrol, opening his account on a first run following a transfer from Sandy Johnson, provided the Newmarket yard’s 34th jumps winner of this latest term, to which you should add a further 70+ flat winners. This is a machine, and it’s only a matter of time before Owen is knocking on the door of the Jumps Championship.

Jet Patrol saw off 10 other rivals, including Turpin Gold, whose rider Stan Sheppard might be forgiven for thinking he had the race in the bag with a clear lead around the final bend, only to see Bowen reeling him in half a furlong out, and winning going away.

Bowen showed why he is the leading rider in the final contest, a poorly filled bumper, in which he rode 2/7 favourite Way Maker for brother Mickey. In the vanguard throughout, he was headed by Neil King’s Victors Spirit, but fought back to win by a neck on the line.

Eight year old point-to-Point winner My Girl Katie has showed good promise on her promotion to Rules racing, with two wins and a second in four outings to date for Grace Harris. She never gave favourite backers cause for concern in the 3m 3f handicap chase, making her move from the rear as they approached the last, and accelerating away to win by 9 1/2l under Conor Ring.

Although perhaps not quite as well-known as the Grand National, the Cheltenham Cup or the Ascot Gold Cup, the Shergar Cup is still one of the biggest features on the summer UK horse racing calendar.

The 2025 Shergar Cup (officially known for sponsorship reasons this year as the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup), took place at Ascot Racecourse where it is always held (apart from in 1999, when it was first held at Goodwood), and this year’s winner with 68 points was team Asia, beating Team Europe in second place by just 1 point. 

The question being asked here is, does Team Asia’s Shergar Cup win show that horse racing’s reach and innovation stretches across the globe? Let’s dive straight in to find out. 

What were the final standings?

For the first time in the history of the Shergar Cup, Team Asia was victorious. Captained by Suraj Narredu, the team entered the history books with some impressive performances. Here’s how the final table looked at the end of this year’s event:

• Winner: Team Asia. Total points: 68
• Winner: Team Europe. Total points: 687
• Winner: Team Great Britain & Ireland. Total points: 62
• Winner: Team Rest of the World. Total points: 55

Also riding for team Asia this year were Mirai Iwata and Ryusei Sakia. The historic win was, in fact, sealed by jockey Mirai Iwata on horse Cerulean Bay in the final race by coming in second. The two victories for team Asia were in the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers (Suraj Narredu on Fireblade) and the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Sprint (Ryusei Sakai on Prince Of India).

How popular are UK races in Asia?

UK horse racing events like the Shergar Cup are hugely popular in parts of Asia, including parts of Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Japan, and especially in countries with strong historic ties to the United Kingdom. This year’s event and Team Asia’s surprise win were also a huge deal in India. 

The Shergar Cup and many other major UK horse races are also extremely popular betting markets on today’s safest online sportsbooks that allow paying through your phone to top up your account and cash out your winnings. 

British and Irish riders can often by found riding in India in the winter, or further afield in Hong Kong, and Singapore, where a strong ex-pat community ensures there are job opportunities.

Asia’s win goes to show just how much UK horse racing’s reach and innovation stretches across the globe.

Fun facts about the Shergar Cup

The Shergar Cup was first run in 1999 at Goodwood, and since then, it has always been held at Ascot Racecourse. It takes place each year in August, and it is one of the most unique horse racing competitions out there due to its format. 

A total of twelve jockeys race in one of four teams, and, depending on where they finish in their respective races, will determine how many points they have earned and their team’s overall score. 

Unlike in most horse racing events, where the jockeys wear the silks of that horse’s owner, they wear specific team colours instead. By the end of the competition, when all six races have ended, the points are tallied up to determine the winner. The other notable award that can also be won at the Shergar Cup is the Silver Saddle, or Alistair Haggis Silver Saddle, which also works the same. In other words, whoever has the most points at the end of the day wins the Silver Saddle award.

The same team event has rarely been tried in Jumping. Those with long memories may recall a World Jump Jockeys Championship at Cheltenham in the mid-eighties, whilst Warwick staged an Anglo-Soviet Jockeys Challenge in 1990.

Major horseracing events still to come in 2025

Don’t worry if you missed out on all of the action from the 2025 Shergar Cup or any of the other race meetings mentioned above, because there are still several more to come throughout 2025. 

For example, some of the biggest upcoming horse races in the United Kingdom over the coming months are this week’s York Ebor Festival, the Summer Celebration at Sandown Park, the Sprint Celebration Cup at Haydock Park, and British Champions Day at Ascot. 

Further afield, you have the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in France, The Everest in Australia, and the Breeders’ Cup in the United States. That’s not forgetting to mention the Melbourne Cup in Australia and the Japan Cup.

Final thoughts

The innovative format, entertainment aspect, historical prestige, strong links to the monarchy, accessibility of UK horse racing in many parts of Asia, and the fact that it’s now possible to gamble on these events and watch them live without having to be in the UK also helps UK horse racing continue to thrive, appealing to new audiences in exciting new ways.

Various other technological breakthroughs and emerging technologies over the coming years will also help raise its global profile. 

On a final note, if you decide to place a wager on any UK horse racing event, remember to stick to betting on legally permitted sportsbooks that are fully licensed and regulated to offer real money betting services to people in your country. 

Before signing up anywhere, don’t forget to check out the expert reviews first, just to determine if the site is safe or not.

As we approach the second half of the 2025 horse racing season, there’s much excitement surrounding the key contenders aiming for top honours in some of the most prestigious flat races globally. A flurry of performances on both sides of the Atlantic has flushed out contenders for the Breeders Cup among other major landmark race meetings. So irrespective of their connection to jumping at Stratford, racing at this level is of interest to any fan of the sport.

As the 2025 flat season races toward its second half, thrilling performances have already set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable year. With some of the sport’s biggest competitions still ahead, a handful of standout horses are capturing the spotlight, and their stories are too compelling to miss.

Keep your eyes on these five top contenders: Sovereignty, Journalism, Baeza, Mindframe, and Sierra Leone. In this article, we’ll explore their impressive track records, upcoming race prospects, and the reasons they’re poised to continue shaping the global horse racing landscape throughout 2025.

Sovereignty: a dominant force in 2025

Key Wins: Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes

Sovereignty has already established itself as a formidable force in 2025, with two of the most prestigious wins in the racing world: the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes.

The Kentucky Derby win was especially impressive, as Sovereignty made a thrilling late surge on a muddy track, showcasing not only speed but also stamina and versatility.

By skipping the Preakness Stakes, Sovereignty’s team strategically focused on the Belmont, a move that paid off with a remarkable win.

Ranked as the leading contender for “Horse of the Year,” Sovereignty is widely regarded as a top pick for the Breeders’ Cup Classic, where his form could prove unbeatable. His next probable start will be at the Travers Stakes, where he’ll face some of the top competitors in the sport.

For fans, keeping up with Sovereignty’s performance is crucial.

Journalism: a resilient rival to Sovereignty

Key Wins: Preakness Stakes, Haskell Stakes

While Sovereignty stole the spotlight in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, Journalism wasn’t far behind, securing impressive second-place finishes in both races.

However, his victory in the Preakness Stakes and later in the Haskell Stakes proved his worth as a resilient competitor. His ability to bounce back and secure victories in other major races speaks to his potential and determination.

Journalism’s consistency throughout the Triple Crown season makes him another serious contender for the Breeders’ Cup Classic. His next likely start is at the Travers Stakes, where he will face off against Sovereignty once again, in what promises to be a thrilling battle.

To stay up-to-date on Journalism’s performance and track his progress and that of the competition leading into major races, following daily horse racing picks is strongly advised. This information can provide valuable insights, helping you stay informed on competitor strategies and updates related to upcoming events.

Baeza: a rising star with strong potential

Key Performances: 3rd in Kentucky Derby, 3rd in Belmont Stakes

Baeza’s impressive third-place finishes in both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes demonstrated his incredible promise and ability to perform under pressure. While he hasn’t yet claimed victory in a major race, his performances suggest that he’s only just beginning to show his true potential.

His consistent finishes in the top tier of races place him among the leading contenders for future wins.

Currently ranked among the top 10 in the Breeders’ Cup Classic contenders, Baeza is an exciting horse to watch in 2025. With his eyes set on major races like the Travers Stakes, he should surprise no-one when he loses his maiden tag in a major race in the near future.

Mindframe: the undefeated contender

Key Performances: Undefeated in 2025, including the Stephen Foster Stakes win

Mindframe has been nothing short of spectacular in 2025, maintaining an undefeated record with wins in races like the Stephen Foster Stakes at Churchill Downs. His remarkable ability to win across different tracks and conditions has earned him a solid reputation as one of the most exciting horses in training today. As a potential candidate for Horse of the Year, Mindframe’s future in racing is highly anticipated.

With a strong victory in the Stephen Foster Stakes, Mindframe is now looking at bigger challenges, including the Jockey Club Gold Cup. This race will be an important test for him as he faces some of the biggest names in the sport.

Sierra Leone: the defending Classic champion

Key Performances: 1st in the Whitney Stakes, 2nd in Stephen Foster Stakes

Sierra Leone has proven itself a formidable competitor, with a standout victory in the Whitney Stakes and strong performances in other major races, including a second-place finish in the Stephen Foster Stakes.

As the defending Classic champion, he remains one of the most exciting prospects in the sport. However, his current winless streak at Saratoga, including a disappointing performance in the New Orleans Classic, has raised some questions about his form.

Sierra Leone’s prospects for the rest of 2025 depend on his performance at Saratoga, particularly in the Whitney Stakes, where a strong result could bolster his chances of securing another Horse of the Year title.

He will need to prove himself on this difficult track if he is to stay at the top of his game.

Some heavy showers didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of hundreds of Warwickshire finest at Stratford’s annual Ladies Day yesterday – a festival of glamour and turnout not just limited this time around to the horses. Prizes were awarded for the best dressed couple, best hat and overall turnout, prizes underwritten by Ardencote Spa, Hiorns Hats, Grace & Dotty and Avon Estates. One group of ladies set up shop right by the winners’ enclosure – squatters’ rights in the event of a victory in the Best Dressed or on the track.

It was two equine ladies who fought out the finish to the £24,000 feature, the Skip Hire Flyer Handicap Chase over 2m1f, the race run under a heavy downpour, which changed the Going description to Good. Alan King’s Finest View, seeking to add to her hat-trick of victories this summer, clashed with Arclight, from Seven Barrows, and the two ran a ding-dong battle from the last, before James Bowen conjured a little extra from the Henderson-trained 6 year old to win by a neck. Malystic ran on to be a distant 12l third.

Britain’s most versatile dual purpose trainer, Alan King, had previously been successful in the Allan Atkinson Novices Hurdle over the same distance, with Nap Hand, who rewarded favourite backers with a ready 2 1/4l victory over Hope Rising. The five year old looks more than capable of defying a penalty.

Ten faced the starter in the ensuing novices handicap hurdle, producing the first leg of a Dan Skelton double when brother Harry rode Victory Club to a popular 5/2 victory over Donald McCain’s Guillaume, the rest of the field well strung out behind.

Skelton Jnr didn’t have to work very much harder on the second leg of the double, as 2/1 favourite Queen’s Venture asserted her dominance over a distant Could Be Trouble by 17l in the Hiorns Hats Handicap Hurdle over 2m 6f.

This time last year, the Skelton stable was leading the Trainers’ Championship by a country mile. His 106 runners since the start have generated 23 winners and £215,000 in prize money, but James Owen is leading the field a merry dance at present with 29 winners and £254,000. Nevertheless, it doesn’t take too many Saturday races from October onward to change the complexion of the contest.

Owen added to his tally in the opener when Alex Chadwick paired up with Back In The Bay to overcome 5 others in the Ardencote Spa Mares Handicap Hurdle for conditional riders. Owen is flying high at present; his 66 flat winners have earned over £900,000 for the yard this summer as well.

Another yard with a foot in both codes is Richard Newland and Jamie Insole, who teamed up with Charlie Deutsch to claim the 2m 3f Clive Bennett Memorial Novices Handicap Chase with The Dream Goes On, who may have appreciated the slower pace, the race 29 seconds below standard. Deutsch is a rare sighting in the summer, the core of his support coming from winter-focused yards. However, he is worth following in the summer, where he is a rarity among riders in having a positive return to a £1 stake. Thirty rides to date have delivered no more than a couple of winners, but at healthy prices.

Moro Rock paid the fuel bill from North Yorkshire for Sara Ender in the closing 3m 2f handicap hurdle under Harry Bannister, providing a third winner of the term for the Yorkshire stable. In doing so, he continued the frustrating summer for Seamus Mullins whose Hurst Hill produced yet another second placed horse at Stratford.

Runners from Seven Barrows are few and far between in the Summer jumps calendar, so they are always a force to be reckoned with. Five year old mare Therapist has taken a liking to Stratford however, and clocked up her third victory here this summer in the feature 2m 2f Summer Salver Hurdle, sponsored by Barry the Butcher.

I dare say breeders Cheveley Park Stud were expecting something more from the mare when sending her to Andrew Balding, but since she moved a few miles further north to Lambourn, she’s more than paid her way, with previous victories at Southwell and Huntingdon. A winner here both in April and May, 3lb claimer Freddie Gordon retained the mount from May for a bloodless 7l success over the other two runners in the heavy heat of Sunday. It was certainly a day to be fanning oneself.

One Horse Town burnished his credentials in the juvenile hurdle, rewarding odds-on backers with a 14l victory over Alan King’s Blue Tempus. The 8 runner field was reduced to five after two flights with some sketchy jumping from debutants Risk and Appleblossomwhite, whilst Clive Cox cast-off Olivia Jane got as far as the first before jettisoning her rider. For those that persist, prize money is almost assured in these rather uncompetitive races, a fact not lost on winning trainer Harry Derham.

Gwent handler Grace Harris notched up a second winner of the term and maintained her 33% strike rate in the second of the two handicap hurdles, the Esme & Allsopp Handicap over 2m 2f, producing the tightest finish of the day. 3lb claimer Joe Anderson made his move two out on 6 year old Baikal, but was outpaced as they turned the bend, only able to pick up again as they entered the straight, picking off the front pair to win a neck on the line. The second, G’Day Aussie, was perhaps a mite unlucky, shedding a plate in running.

There was further success for Wales 30 minutes later, when Evan Williams’ Backinaction cleaned up in the Tony Sabin Get Your Prostate Checked Handicap Chase over 2m 6f. It was a maiden victory for the Ballycrystal Point-to-Point winner, who has taken 18 months to lose his maiden tag in the UK since switching from Denis Murphy last February. Adam Wedge picked up his riding fee for the 18l margin.

Seven year old Boom Boom has grown a liking for Stratford this summer, picking up a second consecutive victory in the opening University Hospitals Birmingham Charity Handicap Chase over 2m 3f, this time under Robbie Dunne. Third in a novices handicap here in may, a winner in a similar contest a month ago, the Robbie Summers-trained 7 year old had plenty in hand over second-placed My Virtue, 2 3/4l back, and can win again in similar class even with a penalty.

Whatyouwaitingfor was sent off a warm favourite for the 4 x 4tyres.co.uk National Hunt Maiden Hurdle, but was thwarted a third consecutive time at Stratford in as many months, this time by Theo Gillard on the Donald McCain-trained City of Diamonds. The second may be tried over a longer trip, as he seems to be outpaced.

Favourite backers were given some relief in the finale, when James Owen despatched M le Philosophe to win the 2m 6f novices handicap hurdle, justifying his 5/6 price. Alex Chadwick can win again on the five year old who had plenty on hand at the close.

Digital technology has transformed how people experience British horse racing, breaking barriers that once limited the sport to local crowds. From London to Los Angeles, digital tools have turned distant fans into active participants, offering instant access to live events, community engagement, and detailed analysis. This shift is more than technological—it’s cultural, turning racing from an insular pastime into a global phenomenon.

Today’s informed American reader will see that British racing is shaped as much by apps and analytics as by tradition and spectacle. As we explore how global audiences engage with British racing in the digital age, we’ll reveal what makes this transformation compelling and what it means for the sport’s future.

From Local Spectacle to Worldwide Stage

British racing has long thrived on spectacle and community. Throughout much of the 20th century, the excitement centered at the track, captured in black-and-white photos and newsreels of packed grandstands. Fans depended on printed racecards and local broadcasts, making the experience both local and tied to specific times.

The arrival of the internet shattered these limits, allowing enthusiasts from around the world to follow events in real time. No longer limited to racecourse attendance, fans from as far away as India or the United States can keep up with British racing, buy tickets, and access race-day information—all from their own devices. This shift from paddock to platform has expanded British racing’s reach while preserving its distinct character.

The Rise of Mobile Apps and real-Time Engagement

Mobile technology has been a game-changer for racing enthusiasts worldwide. Today, a significant number of fans prefer using racing apps, which serve as all-in-one hubs for live updates, betting, and analysis.

For American audiences, platforms like FanDuel Racing provide an all-in-one experience, allowing users to follow British races, access real-time statistics, and place bets from anywhere. Gone are the days of waiting for television broadcasts or scanning newspaper results. Instead, fans receive instant notifications, can analyze runner form, and even place wagers on the move.

Mobile access ensures that, whether at home or traveling, followers remain plugged into every development. This real-time engagement has not only made racing more accessible but has also introduced the sport to younger, tech-savvy audiences who expect seamless, digital-first experiences.

Online Betting Platforms: Expanding Access & Choice

One of the most profound changes in the digital era is the rise of online betting platforms. Previously, placing a wager required a trip to the racetrack or an off-track betting location. Now, with a few taps, fans across continents can participate in the thrill of British racing. These platforms offer diverse betting options, from straightforward picks to more complex strategies, appealing to both novices and seasoned gamblers.

The convenience and global accessibility have helped British racing attract a broader and more varied audience, transforming how—and where—fans engage with the sport. As a result, the betting experience is no longer defined by geography but by digital connectivity.

Data Analytics: Powering Smarter Decisions

Data has always played a key role in horse racing, but digital tools have taken it to a new level. Advanced analytics now give fans and industry insiders access to detailed performance histories, predictive models, and patterns that were once buried in paper records.

With platforms dedicated to deep statistical analysis, even casual fans can access sophisticated data, enhancing their understanding and engagement. This data-driven approach levels the playing field, giving more people the tools to make informed decisions, whether they’re studying form or refining betting strategies. The emphasis on analytics not only deepens appreciation for the sport but also makes participation more rewarding and intellectually engaging.

Social Media and the Evolution of Fan Communities

The growth of social media has brought British racing into daily conversations worldwide. Platforms such as TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) have fostered vibrant communities where fans share highlights, debate strategies, and follow expert insights in real time. Racing organizations now use these channels to promote events, reveal behind-the-scenes content, and interact directly with followers, breaking down traditional barriers between the sport and its audience.

This two-way communication strengthens the emotional bond fans feel with both the sport and its personalities, transforming once-passive viewers into active participants. The dynamic flow of content also serves as an entry point for new fans, expanding racing’s cultural impact far beyond its home shores.

Live Streaming and the Immersive Digital Experience

Few developments have reshaped fan engagement like live streaming. What was once reserved for on-site spectators is now accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Major races are broadcast across TV and digital platforms, offering high-definition visuals and expert commentary that bring the excitement of the track to a global audience in real time.

Innovations like jockey-cams and virtual tours provide fans with perspectives previously reserved for insiders. As a result, the gap between in-person and digital spectatorship has narrowed, making British racing more inclusive and immersive than ever before.

The Next Digital Frontiers for Racing Fans

The digital journey of British racing is far from complete. Innovations such as augmented reality and advanced machine learning promise to deepen engagement, offering fans immersive experiences and sharper predictive tools. The potential to watch races through interactive, virtual environments or receive instant, data-backed analysis could redefine what it means to follow the sport.

Yet, as digital tools become ever more integral, the heart of British racing endures: the excitement of the race, the drama of the finish, and the shared joy of global community. For fans in America and beyond, the digital age offers not just new ways to watch, but entirely new ways to belong.

Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse, more widely known as Stratford, has been holding race meets since the middle of the 1700s. The venue can trace its beginnings back to informal meetings on Shottery Meadow all the way up until now, as it attracts top jockeys, trainers and racegoers. With that in mind, let’s delve into the past and present of the course.

Annual Races & Betting Markets

Approximately five million people watch horse racing live on the racecourse every year. They are drawn to the spectacle of it all, the dressing up – never more so than this Sunday, Ladies Day – and of course, horse racing betting, which continues to remain popular. Sites like Paddy Power offer bettors odds on races like the Stewards Cup raced at Goodwood where horses like Hammer the Hammer and Annaf are offered at 14/1, or else the chance to use a bet calculator to calculate potential winnings that cover all types of bets and conditions. Apart from picking outright winners, they can choose specials or even bet on virtual horses. Whether online or in-person, betting remains an integral part of the raceday.

When it comes to Stratford races, events like the Stratford Summer Salver in July and Ladies Day remain popular. The track hosts up to 19 National Hunt meetings during race season, from March to November. Thousands are drawn to these events hoping to see in-form horses and jockeys triumph. The highlight of the season is the Pertemps Network Stratford Foxhunters Champion Chase. Recent winners include Chosen Dream (2018) and Law of Gold (2021), with prize purses reaching around £20,000. it’s a day when Stratford celebrates the sport’s roots in the hunting field unashamedly.

Historic Roots and early evolution

The first race took place here in 1718, but it was over 30 years later when the first official race took place, as Stratford Racecourse opened. Since then it has had a long and storied history, with luminaries such as David Garrick, who created the Jubilee Cup in 1769, often coming to raceday. Inevitably, connections to one William Shakespeare abound. Landowner objections nearly forced the course to shut before it had really got going, but racing emerged just as popular as ever in the 1800s, featuring horses like Lottery, who would go on to win the Grand National. In the early part of the 1900s, the two World Wars caused a hiatus for racing, but once again it bounced back and continues to be popular at the track to this day.

The advent of a formalized summer Jumps programme some 30 years ago put the racecourse on a sounder footing, allowing it to benefit from larger crowds not put off by winter weather, and abandoned meetings due to flooding from the adjacent River Avon, whilst still a regular occurrence, do not play the havoc they used to with racecourse finances. All is not perfect however. As a small independent course, Stratford is ill-equipped to combat the bigger influence of the large racecourse groups, and has lost lucrative Friday evenings, switched largely to Sundays.

The course remains one of the few in private hands, with a majority shareholding owned by Chairman Michael Rowe, and the late Nick Lees, one time CEO and Clerk of Course at Newmarket, was typical of the depth of racing knowledge among the directors, all of whom see themselves as guardians of this sporting treasure in Warwickshire.

Course characteristics & facilities

As for the course itself, it is known for speed, and rewards horses that have high levels of endurance and can maintain their rhythm over fences. There are eight of these to jump, along with one water jump which was added nearly 20 years ago in front of the stands. The track measures a mile and two furlongs, and due to its compactness, it is rare to see challengers who are off the pace come back into contention. This then is a track where it pays to be handy, or indeed, to lead from flagfall.

As time has moved on, so have the course facilities, with regular updates throughout the years. A grandstand was added in 1955, restaurants came shortly after, with a modern glass-fronted grandstand built in 1997. Next up are alterations to the Jockeys’ changing rooms to accommodate changing exercise regimes and the growth of women riders. Although it may have come from humble beginnings, a day at Stratford racing is not to be missed. The signature Foxhunters and Summer Salver fixtures are the highlights of the season and offer a vibrant occasion in the National Hunt calendar.

It’s slightly over 350 miles from Bagenalstown in Carlow to Stratford by vehicle, with a small matter of the Irish Sea in between. So it was something of a surprise to see Shark Hanlon’s Roxboro River sent off at 20/1 in yesterday’s 2m6f Saige Composite Products Handicap Hurdle. Although owned by Birmingham-based Mark Sheasby of Eventmasters, there would have been closer targets to home for sure, so it was a sure sign of confidence from a yard that’s known to like a punt.

We can be sure that the stable fancied their runner and took a little from the bookmakers’ satchels from the stewards’ report into the apparent improvement in form: trainer’s rep said, regarding the apparent improvement in form, that gelding may have appreciated a sounder surface, officially described as good to firm, good in places and less undulating track. This is the standard terminology of obfuscation loved by those in the trade, and Shark is the epitome of the lovable rogue. Keeping it in the family, son Patrick was in the plate for this 1 1/2l win over Doc McCoy.

Coming from the traditionalist school of David Nicholson, Alan King has never been a keen exponent of summer jumping. However, in common with many Jumps trainers, his owners’ pockets aren’t deep enough to pay the top prices nowadays. The Barbury maestro has adapted well, purchasing cleverly with more flat-breds, and his runners are seen more regularly during the summer NH calendar. He is arguably the best dual-purpose trainer in the country.

Just four turned out for the opening 2m 1f novices handicap chase, and they were well-bunched until 2 out when the race evolved. King’s Finest View, winner of 8 races already, and this her hat-trick over fences, showed good speed to divide Black Hawk Eagle and one time Champion Hurdle fourth Aspire Tower, to win by 2 1/4l under Tom Cannon.

Aspire Tower’s trainer Jennie Candlish didn’t have long to wait for compensation however as her T Or Coffey fairly bolted up in the second, the Hollow Bottom Reopens This Summer Maiden Hurdle. Always prominent under Sean Quinlan, the 4 year old led narrowly approaching the last, and had plenty on hand at the line, perhaps more than the 1 3/4l over Whatyouwaitingfor would suggest.

The Hollow Bottom, for so long a massive racing pub in Guiting Power, has gone through several changes of ownership in recent years. It is to be hoped that this popular venue can reclaim the form that saw Tipping Tim, Earth Summit and other Twiston-Davies big race winners parade in front of crowds of happy drinkers 25 years ago.

The faces got longer in the ring after race 3 as a third consecutive favourite passed the line in front, this time Jamie Snowden’s Realistic Optimism in the 2m 2f Davisons Law Handicap Hurdle. Gavin Sheehan bided his time midfield on the 15/8 favourite, making headway only on the final bend, and heading Square Du Roule to win by 2 1/2l at the line.

Lilly Pinchin has been making waves this summer with the release of the Cotswold Film Company’s A Racing Life – living with ADHD, a fascinating insight into how horses have helped her cope with a nervous condition. There was certainly no sign of nerves in her delivery of Charlie Longsden’s Midnight Jewel to pick off the leaders in the 2m 3f Farmers Farewell Handicap Chase to leave her 3l to the good on the line. Rides are hard to come by in the summer months, especially so this year with small fields the norm, but Pinchin has earned her place.

Five year old bumper Fairlawn Skipper made good on the promise shown on debut at Perth a fortnight ago when making all to win the concluding bumper for the Bowen team by a handy 2l.

It was a day when eyes were more readily focused on the opening day of Royal Ascot, Britain’s showcase racing event, but connections of the 40 runners at Stratford found their own little bit of royal supremacy on a warm afternoon’s entertainment at Luddington Road.

Sergeant Fury has found it troublesome repeating his early promise when winning a maiden Point-to-Point at Bartlemy last May, but he found winning ways here on summer ground for the second time in a month, winning the 2m 2f Try RacingTV for Free Novices Hurdle handsomely with plenty on hand over Duel au Soleil for the Harry Derham – Paul O’Brien pairing. It looks like the key to him is good ground, so he’s likely to make hay during the summer and early autumn. He’s another graduate from the Noel Fehily Racing Club.

Derham’s second runner of the day, A Dublin Job, was sent off 5/4 favourite for the 2m 6f Handicap Chase, but will have to brush up his jumping if he’s to make the winner’s berth. Mistakes surrendered him the lead before halfway, and whilst he kept in touch, the Bowen – trained Fame And Fun and eventual winner Gateau de Miel, had the upper hand, the latter going on to score by 3 1/2l over A Dublin Job under Tom Broughton. This was a season-opening winner for trainer Barry Brennan, who has enjoyed more winners around Stratford than any other course.

Another trainer with a case of seconditis is Seamus Mullins, who filled the minor placings twice among his runners at the previous meeting. Basilette, fourth in a mares novices handicap hurdle at the end of May, improved on that performance, but still found one too good, in Al Mootamarid, a length winner of the novices limited handicap hurdle that concluded the card. It’s something of a comedown for the son of Kingman to depart Marco Botti’s Newmarket lawns for rural Lowsonford in Warwickshire, but he may finally have found his true metier for Dominic Elsworth. Robbie Dunne picked up the winning ride.

Dunne had already visited the Winner’s Enclosure earlier in the afternoon, enjoying a maiden novices handicap chase win for the Rob Summers – trained Boom Boom, third in an identical race her behind Tactical Affair a month ago. This time Dunne made good use of his speed to show prominently throughout, taking it up 2 out and making the best of his way home from Ella Pickard’s Fox Wallace, 3 1/2l back in second. Tanworth-in-Arden based Summers was another breaking his duck for the season.

Favourite backers raised a glass or two to Carrigeen Kampala when landing the 2m George & Dragon Handicap Hurdle, her third course and distance victory at Stratford under the tutelage of Fergal O’Brien and today’s rider, Jonathan Burke. There are more races in her for sure, as she took a keen hold here, and had plenty on hand at the close over Emma Lavelle’s Everyonesgame.

The day had opened with a moderate handicap hurdle for conditional riders in which just 6 lined up, yet only three finished. Tabitha Worsley was dumped when Snitterfield whipped round at the start, and two others were pulled up before the final bend. Among the survivors, jjoint-favourite Juan Bermudez, who’d made all under Dylan Johnston, was joined by the other favourite Market House, before the second last, but the James Owen – trained runner-up couldn’t sustain his challenge, and Johnston was able to ride out the winner to a 7l victory, a second from just 9 runners for Henry Oliver.

Royal Ascot 2025 is fast approaching, and many people believe that this could be the year that racehorse trainer and former jockey Paddy Twomey finally gets a winner at the UK’s biggest horse racing event. 

Let’s dive straight in to find out more. 

Can Paddy Twomey win at Royal Ascot 2025?

Many horse racing fans, experts, and sports bettors believe that Paddy Twomey could win at Royal Ascot this year and that the most likely winner will be a horse called ‘Carmers’ in the Queen’s Vase race. 

Royal Ascot gets underway on Tuesday, June 17, at 14:30 (GMT) with the Queen Anne Stakes, followed by the Coventry Stakes, the King Charles II Stakes, and the St James’ Palace Stakes. 

On day 2 of the event, the first race of the day is the Queen Mary Stakes at 14:30. The Queen’s Vase race on day 2 is at 15:05, followed by the Prince of Wales, the Royal Hunt Cup, and the Windsor Castle Stakes.

The quickest, easiest, and most reliable way to determine if Paddy Twomey’s ‘Carmers’ is likely to win the Queens Vase race is to find out the latest odds currently being offered by the iGaming industry’s most trusted online sportsbooks. Look for sites that are well-known for having highly competitive horse racing odds. 

For example, when betting on horse racing in South Africa, the safest site to visit first for the best odds is the official 10Bet Africa online sportsbook. As we edge closer to race day, the odds for this particular race will become available. 

Since the start of the Irish Flat horse racing season in March, and right up until May 20, Twomey has had an impressive 12 winners from just 28 runners (Flat runners aged three years old and above). In other words, his recent strike rate is an unparalleled 42.90%. 

Which other races are there to look forward to at Royal Ascot?

Besides the Queen’s Vase and the other races mentioned above that you can watch and/or bet on days 1 and 2, there are plenty of other races to look forward to over the five-day event. 

The most hotly anticipated race is the Ascot Gold Cup on day 3 at 16:25. The other races on day three are the Norfolk Stakes, the Ribblesdale Stakes, and the Buckingham Palace Stakes. On day 4, June 20, you have the Albany Stakes, the Commonwealth Cup, the Coronation Stakes, and the King Edward VII Stakes, and then on the final day of the meeting, you have the Chesham Stakes, the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, and the Wokingham Stakes.

For jumping fans, the most keenly anticipated is the Queen Alexandra Stakes over 2m 4f, the longest race of the meeting. This brings together stayers who often ply their trade in the winter months around our better known jumps courses, and champion trainer Willie Mullins has an outstanding record in the race in recent years.

Who is favourite to win the Ascot Gold Cup?

As it stands, Illinois is the odds-on favourite to win the 2025 Ascot Gold Cup, followed by second odds-on favourite Candelari, and third odds-on favourite Trawlerman. Talking horse and former champion hurdler Constitution Hill was entered for the race, before connections wisely decided to focus attention on next autumn’s Jumps calendar. Here is a quick look at the latest odds for the top three favourites, which, don’t forget, are subject to change at any time. 

We have included all three odds formats (decimal, American/moneyline, and fractional), and the implied probability rate of each of the top three favourites to win. Here’s what it currently looks like:

• 2025 Ascot Gold Cup winner. Horse: Illinois. Odds: 2.25, +125, 5/4. IPR: 44.40%
• 2025 Ascot Gold Cup winner. Horse: Candelari. Odds: 3.75, +275, 11/4. IPR: 26.70%
• 2025 Ascot Gold Cup winner. Horse: Trawlerman. Odds: 5.00, +400, 4/1. IPR: 20.0%

Although it’s not a good idea to place too many outsider/underdog bets, they win often enough to make this enticing. Therefore, if you fancy a punt on an outsider in the Royal Ascot Gold Cup this year, then you might want to consider Divine Comedy, Feigning Madness, or Burdett Road, runner-up to Golden Ace in this year’s Champion Hurdle. 

These ones are all currently priced at around 101.00 (decimal odds), which is +10,000 in American/moneyline odds, and 100/1 in fractional odds, meaning they all currently only have a 1.00 chance (implied probability rate) of winning. These are the three least favourites to win. 

There’s also Al Nayyir, and Continuous, who are both currently priced at around 67.00 (+6,600 or 66/1) with a 1.50% IPR.

Final thoughts

Paddy Twomey is looking to break his duck and win his first-ever runner at Royal Ascot, which many believe he will do, so it will be interesting to see which horses he enters and which races they will take part in. 

If you decide to place a wager on any of the races at the upcoming Royal Ascot event, remember to conduct plenty of research, and don’t forget that betting on the odds on favourites still doesn’t always guarantee that you will see a return on your initial wagers.