JUMPS SEASON 2024/25 OWNER & TRAINER INFORMATION
TWO OF THE SAT 18 JAN 2025
3 DAYS OF RACING ACTION WITH £1.2M PRIZE MONEY
WELCOME TO ASCOT
Welcome to 2024/25 Jumps season at Ascot. We are delighted to be offering more than £2.5 million in prize money across our eight Jumps fixtures from November to March. That includes 11 races worth £100,000 or more while no race will be run for less than £10,000.
We saw some great action at Ascot in 2023/24, with top-class horses like Crambo, Chianti Classico, Jango Baie and Pic D’Orhy all recording valuable victories and we are looking forward to seeing many more stars this season.
There are several exciting changes to the programme across the winter, starting at the CopyBet November Racing Weekend on 22nd and 23rd November where we are introducing a new race, the 1st Class Logistics Ltd Berkshire National. Worth £75,000, we hope it will be an attractive early-season target for some of those staying chasers potentially with other National ambitions further down the line.
Prize money for the Howden Long Walk Hurdle in December has been increased to £125,000 (from £110,000) as we seek to reward the very top horses in the sport. Once again there are no early closing entry conditions either for this race or any of our Grade 1s, allowing connections flexibility to make decisions that best suit their horses.
We are delighted to be working with our colleagues at Royal Windsor on the inaugural Berkshire Winter Million which will take place from Friday 17th to Sunday 19th January across Ascot and Windsor. The Grade 1 BetMGM Clarence House Chase here on Saturday 18th January will be the centrepiece of the weekend and we hope to be luckier with the weather having lost the meeting to frost the last two years.
Also on that weekend, the Grade 2 BetMGM Mares’ Hurdle, registered as the Warfield Hurdle, will switch to two miles having previously been run over three miles. This is part of some wider changes to the mares programme, instigated by the BHA, and we hope it will prove a popular option for trainers.
We are all set for another thrilling Jumps season and look forward to welcoming you back to Ascot with a runner soon.
Yours sincerely,
Nick Smith LVO Director of Racing & Public Affairs
Cover:
Pic D’Orhy winning The Betfair Ascot Chase 2024 for Mrs Johnny de la Hey, Paul Nicholls and Harry Cobden
OWNERS
The following information is applicable to all Ascot Racedays throughout our Jumps season.
OWNER/TRAINER
Badges
We are delighted to offer owners with a horse running complimentary Owner/Trainer badges and lunch, per runner.
Please see the table on page 10 for details on where your badge permits access to. The table opposite outlines badge allocation.
Booking & Application
Owners with a declared runner are kindly asked to complete a two-stage booking process before arrival at Ascot.
STEP 1 Booking entry badges via PASS
Please submit those attending via the PASS system by 4pm the day before racing. For more information on how to register and reserve badges via PASS, follow the PASS System guide.
STEP 2 Lunch booking
Please submit a lunch booking form by 4pm the day before racing. Completed forms should be returned to ownersandtrainers@ascot.com .
Please note: bookings of more than 8+ are not possible on PASS, please email us with your request.
Badge Allocation
Our standard badge allocation at Ascot for owners with a runner is:
We appreciate that racehorse ownership comes in many forms and as such we can be flexible and tailor individual owner badges requirements. We aim to accommodate all owner groups including large syndicates.
If you require any information or have any special requests (i.e. additional badges), please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Owners and Trainers’ Manager, Hannah Parlett hannah.parlett@ascot.com
Badge Collection
Badges and lunch vouchers should be collected from the Owners’ & Trainers’ desk in Ticket Office West, adjacent to the West Turnstiles. Please give the name of your horse/s, along with the individual name/s booked. An official form of photo identification will be required for collection.
TRAINERS
The following information is applicable to all Ascot Racedays throughout our Jumps season.
Badges
Jockey Guest card on Red ‘Jockey 2024’ lanyard Includes scannable QR Code
Trainers must bring their photo ID cards to gain admission to the racecourse. NTF metal badges will allow access to facilities once inside the racecourse. Those with runners on the day are also entitled to bring a guest who can join them for lunch and a further two guest Owner/Trainer badges (no lunch) (irrespective or how many runners on the day).
OFFICIAL
Please see the table on page 10 for details on where each badge permits access to. The table below outlines badge allocation.
Booking & Application
For trainer’s badge and lunch requests please contact hannah.parlett@ascot.com or +44 (0) 7738 716395.
Official accreditation Red ‘BHA Official lanyard Includes scannable QR Code
Badge Collection
Badges and lunch vouchers should be collected from the Owners’ & Trainers’ desk in Ticket Office West, adjacent to the West Turnstiles. An official form of photo identification will be required for collection.
JOCKEYS
The following information is applicable to all Ascot Racedays, excluding Royal Ascot, for which there is a separate brochure.
Badges
Jockeys must bring their PJA accreditation to gain access to the racecourse. We are delighted to offer those with a ride on the day two complimentary Owner/Trainer badges for guests.
Please see the table on page 10 for details on where each badge permits access to. The table below outlines badge allocation.
Booking & Application
Badges can be arranged on the day or in advance by contacting hannah.parlett@ascot.com or +44 (0) 7738 716395 or leaving names at the Owners’ & Trainers’ desk on the day.
Badge Collection
Badges should be collected from the Owners’ & Trainers’ desk in Ticket Office West, adjacent to the West Turnstiles. Please note that jockey’s guest badges will not be released unless the jockey has requested them in person or in advance. An official form of photo identification will be required for collection.
BADGE ACCESS
PROFESSIONAL JOCKEYS’ ASSOCIATION
chrome border. Numbered individually in black
in
Media accreditation card on Red ‘RCA Media 2024’ lanyard
Includes scannable PASS
Jockey accreditation card on Red ‘Jockey 2024’ lanyard
Includes scannable PASS
QR Code
Shield shape with NTF and Trainer in chrome on Green enamel. Numbered individually in black Separate PASS Card
QR Code Jockey Guest accreditation card on Red ‘Jockey Guest 2024’ lanyard
Includes scannable PASS
QR Code
Includes scannable PASS
Jockey accreditation card on Red ‘Jockey 2024’ lanyard
QR Code
Includes scannable PASS
QR Code
Jockey Guest accreditation card on Red ‘Jockey Guest 2024’ lanyard
Includes scannable PASS
QR Code
Official accreditation card on Red ‘BHA Official 2024’ lanyard
Includes scannable PASS
QR Code
Owners’ & Trainers’
DINING & FACILITIES
We are pleased to offer complimentary lunch to owners and trainers with runners on the day, served in our Owners’ & Trainers’ Dining Rooms.
Whilst we take lunch bookings, we cannot reserve tables, so we advise getting to the restaurant in good time. Tables are allocated on arrival. In order to accommodate everyone, we also ask for tables to be vacated once you finish your lunch, perhaps enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee in one of our two Owners’ & Trainers’ Bars, or light afternoon tea in the Owners’ & Trainers’ Trackside Viewing Bar from 3pm. Please note that some tables in the Owners’ and Trainers’ Dining Room are shared with others.
Lunch must be booked in advance by completing the lunch booking form and returning to ownersandtrainers@ascot.com by 4pm the day before racing.
Please note, we cannot take lunch bookings on the day.
Owners’ & Trainers’ Dining Rooms
The two dining rooms can be found either side of the Owners’ and Trainers’ Bar, overlooking the Pre-Parade Ring. They both offer:
• Complimentary hot carvery lunch, dessert, with a complimentary glass of wine
• TV & betting facilities
• Easy access to the Pre-Parade Ring, Unsaddling Enclosure and Parade Ring
• Cash bar
Lunch is served from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
We also offer a complimentary light afternoon tea, served circa 3.00pm, within the Owners’ and Trainers’ Trackside Bar.
Owners’ and Trainers’ Bar
Located in the Old Paddock building, overlooking the Pre-Parade Ring, this bar offers:
• Complimetary tea and coffee
• TV & betting facilities
• Easy access to the Pre-Parade Ring, Unsaddling Enclosure and Parade Ring
• Elevated Pre-Parade Ring viewing
• Cash bar
Owners’ and Trainers’ Trackside Viewing Bar
Located in the west end of the Grandstand, entrance A, this bar offers:
• Track viewing in a relaxed atmosphere
• Complimetary tea and coffee
• Complimetary light afternoon tea, served at 3.00pm
• TV & betting facilities
We were delighted to be awarded an ROA Gold Standard for the ownership experience on offer at Ascot in 2023.
In 2024 Ascot were recognised by the RSA for providing an outstanding ownership experience for share-ownership groups.
• Easy access to the Pre-Parade Ring, Unsaddling Enclosure and Parade Ring
• Cash bar
Exclusive Viewing Areas
Owners and trainers with a runner can view races from our two dedicated viewing areas. One located underneath the Royal Box, within easy reach of the Parade Ring. The other is to the left of the horsewalk. As these are stewarded areas, particularly on a busy raceday, please ensure you have your badge/s on show to gain access.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Dress Code
Whilst we are relaxed in our Owners’ and Trainers’ facilities and suggest you dress for the weather, we advise owners and trainers to follow the King Edward VII Enclosure dress code if you wish to use Level 4 bars and viewing. Otherwise please refer to the Queen Anne Enclosure dress code. For dress code details please click here
Hospitality And Dining
We offer owners with runners a preferential rate for hospitality packages and the hire of private boxes and loges on our racedays. Please contact hannah.parlett@ascot.com or +44 (0) 7738 716395 .
Accessibility
Please contact Hannah Parlett if you have any questions regarding accessibility hannah.parlett@ascot.com or +44 (0) 7738 716395 . More information about Ascot Racecourse accessibility.
Travel & Parking
Parking for all connections is within Car Park 2 via the entrance marked “Trainers, Jockeys, Press” off Ascot High Street. Should you require disabled parking in Car Park 2, please ensure your blue badge is clearly displayed and give the name of your horse on arrival. For all travel information please click here.
Helicopter Facilities
If you wish to charter a helicopter to Ascot please book via the heliport operator Fresh Air at ascot@freshair-uk.com or by calling +44 (0) 1869 278244 .
Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you will be arriving by helicopter so that we can arrange convenient badge collection.
Wheely | Official Chauffeur of Ascot
Wheely, the Swiss-founded British luxury services company, offers chauffeured journeys to and from Ascot, available on demand or in advance through the Wheely app. When booking your journey, simply enter “Ascot Racecourse” as your desired location and choose Car Park 2 for your drop-off and pick-up location. Special fixed-rate journeys between Ascot and London are available, with Business Class (Mercedes-Benz E-Class or EQE) at £150*.
Wheely journeys feature immaculate Mercedes-Benz E, S and V Class vehicles, providing thoughtful amenities including bottled waters, paper tissues, disinfecting wipes, and phone charges.
For any queries, please contact Wheely Customer Service via the in-app chat.
Scan the QR code to download the Wheely app.
* The fixed-rate applies to non-stop journeys. If a journey includes any stops, the cost will be calculated according to the standard fare.
RACING INFORMATION
Stabling and Racing Staff Accommodation
We have 205 stables situated in a secure yard away from the road and close to the racing staff accommodation with ample parking for cars and lorries. We provide paper or shavings and while we will endeavour to meet your bedding requirements, your preferred bedding cannot be guaranteed. The racing staff accommodation has 42 double rooms, a large dining room, lounge area and a bar. Accommodation must be booked in advance.
For more information and to book, please contact Tom Grantham, Stables Manager on +44 (0) 01344 878454 , +44 (0) 7717 631437 or thomas.grantham@ascot.com or Michele Grantham, our Hostel Manager michele.grantham@ascot.com +44 (0) 7817 124023 .
Racing Staff
Racing staff are provided with complimentary food on all racedays in the Stables Canteen. We also issue Best Turned Out awards for each race at Ascot with a minimum prize of £100.
Gallops
Gallops are available between 8.00am and 8.30am each morning. Please book in with the Stables Manager before proceeding to the course.
Horseboxes
Horsebox entry to the stables is next to Car Park 2 from Ascot High Street. Please follow signs to Car Park 2 and then look for the stables sign on the High Street.
Veterinary Clinics
Newmarket Equine Hospital
CB8 0FG
Tel: +44 (0) 1628 782020 referrals@neh.uk.com
Liphook Equine Hospital
GU30 7JG
Tel: +44 (0) 1428 723594 post@theleh.co.uk
(Emergency out of hours: +44 (0) 1428 727727)
Going
For live weather station and going information please visit ascot.com/thegoing . For additional information please call Chris Stickels, Head of Racing & Clerk of the Course on 07970 621440.
Veterinary Provisions
Personnel and equipment on duty to specifically attend to any equine injury/incident:
• Senior Veterinary Surgeon: Simon Knapp (Kingsclere Vets)
• 3 x Veterinary Surgeons: Clive Hamblin (Collis Equine), Bobby McEwen (Rossdales), Jamie Knapp (Kingsclere Vets)
• Veterinary Technician/Nurse based at the stables
Royal Veterinary College
AL9 7TA
Tel: +44 (0) 1707 666297
Mobile: +44 (0) 7921 565918 whakansson@rvc.com
Rossdales Equine Hospital
CB8 7NN
Tel: +44 (0) 1638 577754
Tel: +44 (0) 1638 6631510 hospital@rossdales.com
• 2 x Horse Ambulances with specialist drivers
• Horse Recovery Vehicle
• Mobile Response Vehicle with Groundsman
• 2 x Veterinary Treatment Boxes (1 at stables and 1 near Pre-Parade Ring)
• 2 x Farriers
Two of the veterinary surgeons follow the runners during each race and are in a position to respond to any incident as quickly as possible. One veterinary surgeon is located at the finish, ready to respond if required.
The other veterinary surgeon oversees the Pre-Parade Ring, Parade Ring and Winners’ Enclosure, and can go to the stables as required. There will be at least one veterinary surgeon based in the Pre-Parade Ring, one in the Parade Ring, one at the start and one at the finish (when there are horses in these areas).
The four veterinary surgeons on duty are all specialist equine vets; three of the vets on duty each do approximately 100 racedays on various courses during a year.
JUMPS COURSE PLAN
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR
FAMILY RACEDAY
A total prize fund on the day of £325,000, with the highlights being two valuable Premier Handicaps – the £100,000 Byrne Group Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m1f and the £100,000 Sodexo Live! Gold Cup Handicap Steeple Chase over 3m, which was last year won by Venetia Williams’ Victtorino on his chase debut for the yard.
KERRY NATIONAL BONUS
At Ascot we are always keen to encourage Irish-trained runners to run in our feature races and so we are pleased to offer a £10,000 bonus for any Irish-trained horses placed in the first four of the 2024 Kerry National at Listowel, who go on to win either the Sodexo Live! Gold Cup Handicap Steeple Chase (Saturday 2nd November), the 1st Class Logistics Ltd Berkshire National Handicap Steeple Chase (Saturday 23rd November) or the Howden Silver Cup Handicap Steeple Chase (Saturday, 21st December). There is also a £2,000 bonus for being placed in these races.
COPYBET NOVEMBER RACING WEEKEND
A two-day card with a total prize fund of £570,000, with the feature being the Grade 2 CopyBet 1965 Steeple Chase, won by the likes of Cyrname, Vautour and Master Minded in recent years. The Saturday also features two £100,000 races – the Grade 2 Ascot Hurdle and the Lay & Wheeler Hurst Park Handicap Steeple Chase.
New on the card for 2024 , we introduce the 3m 5f Berkshire National, sponsored by 1st Class Logistics Ltd, worth £75,000. This Class 2 race will take place over the extended trip of 3m5f and we hope it will be an attractive early season target for those with other National ambitions later in the season.
£10,000 BONUS
KERRY NATIONAL BONUS
See page 21 for more information about £10,000 bonus for Irish-Trained horses placed in the Kerry National at Listowel
Blueking D’Oroux winning The Ascot Hurdle 2023 for Paul Nicholls and Harry Cobden
HOWDEN CHRISTMAS RACING WEEKEND
A quality Jumps cards on the Friday features the Grade 2 Howden Noel Novices’ Chase, won by subsequent Cheltenham Festival winners Simonsig and Politologue in the past. Saturday’s showpiece card is headlined by the Grade 1 Howden Long Walk Hurdle, one of the most prestigious races in the calendar for staying hurdlers with the likes of Baracouda, Big Buck’s, Thistlecrack and Paisley Park on the recent roll of honour.
There’s also a Premier Handicap Hurdle over 2m worth £125,000 on the Saturday card.
£10,000 BONUS
KERRY NATIONAL BONUS
See page 21 for more information about £10,000 bonus for Irish-Trained horses placed in the Kerry National at Listowel
Victtorino winning The Howden Silver Cup Handicap Steeple Chase for Venetia Williams and Charlie Deutsch, December 2023
BETMGM CLARENCE HOUSE
CHASE RACEDAY
The day is headlined by the Grade 1 BetMGM Clarence House Chase, worth £175,000. A race designed to attract the very best two milers in Britain and Ireland and often includes some of the leading contenders for the Queen Mother Champion Chase. The race has seen past winners such as Desert Orchid, Sire De Grugy, Un De Sceaux, Altior and Shishkin, who was victorious in the last renewal at Ascot in 2022 against Energumene.
NEW FOR 2025
This card forms the middle leg of the new Berkshire Winter Million Festival, with racing at Windsor on the Friday and Sunday. Also new for 2025 will be the Grade 2 BetMGM Mares’ Hurdle Race being run over two miles having been amended as part of wider changes to the mares programme.
BETFAIR ASCOT CHASE RACEDAY
The £175,000 Betfair Ascot Chase presents the final Grade 1 contest of the season in the UK and Ireland before the Cheltenham Festival. It often features horses that will go on to run in either the Ryanair Chase or Gold Cup, including the likes of Kauto Star, Cue Card Fakir D’Oudairies who have all won this in recent years.
The £460,000 card also features the three-mile Swinley Handicap Steeple Chase.
CONTACTS
ASCOT RACECOURSE
If you have any questions, please do not hestitate to contact the dedicated team: ownersandtrainers@ascot.com or +44 (0) 1344 878 529.
Nick Smith
Director of Racing & Public Affairs
M: +44 (0) 7771 791449
E: nick.smith@ascot.com
Chris Stickels
Head of Racing & Clerk of the Course
M: +44 (0) 7970 621440
E: chris.stickels@ascot.com
Hannah Parlett
Owners’ & Trainers’ Manager
M: +44 (0) 7738 716395
E: hannah.parlett@ascot.com
Reon Sanford
Head Groundsman
M: +44 (0) 7850 914607
E: reon.sanford@ascot.com
Tom Grantham
Stables Manager
M: +44 (0) 7717 631437
E: thomas.grantham@ascot.com
Jane Brightmore
Racing Executive
M: +44 (0) 7817 121835
E: jane.brightmore@ascot.com
Weatherbys
T: +44 (0) 1933 440077
E: ownershipdesk@weatherbys.co.uk
ROA
T: +44 (0) 20 7152 0200
E: info@roa.co.uk
Wheely, Official Chauffeur
See page 15 for details
Wheely.com
FreshAir
T: +44 (0) 1869 278244
E: ascot@freshair-uk.com
Local taxis
Ascot Cars – +44 (0) 1344 297297
Sterling Executive Cars Ltd –+44 (0) 1344 883838