Kalendar Magazine | Issue 2 | December 2020

Kalendar Magazine | Issue 2 | December 2020

IN THE THI CK OF I T The 2020-21 season continues at the Home of Jump Racing THE MAGAZINE FOR THE SOUTH WEST REGION OF THE JOCKEY CLUB Kalendar

CHELTENHAM EXETER

WARWICK WINCANTON

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WELCOME

CONTENTS  Season dates  Where to watch  Treat yourself  Ring in the New Year  Christmas cracker  Kian's golden ticket  Junior jumpers  The Syndicate

well as sharing our fantastic exhibitors who have been unable to join us so far this season. Please do take a look at all the fabulous gifts and oers they have available ahead of Christmas. Of course, we look ahead to our next two race meetings and give you the insight on the best

What a fantastic start to the seasonwe have had here at Cheltenham. Both The Showcase and The November Meeting provided us with fantastic racing, and we hope you were able to enjoy the brilliant coverage from the ITV Racing team. It was

places to catch the sport online

fantastic to have over a million viewers of Paddy Power Day. A particular mention should go to Coole Cody, winner of the Paddy Power November Gold Cup. A wonderful performance for trainer Evan Williams, jockey Tom O’Brien and owner Wayne Cliord. We hope to see him back here and in the Winners’ Enclosure again soon. We are delighted to present our second of three editions of Kalendar magazine which will be distributed throughout the season. Within our latest digital version, we caught up with top Jump jockey Bryony Frost who shared with our Junior Jumpers how important pony racing has been to her career, as

and from your own home with our dedicated Racing Hub. Finally, thank you to you for all for your support over the past few months. We look forward to more quality sport continuing to grace our course and to being able to have a restricted number of spectators on course this month, while we hope to be able to welcome you all back to the Home of Jump Racing one day soon. Take care and best wishes,

CheltenhamRaces thehomeofjumpracing CheltenhamRaces

Ian Renton Regional Managing Director, The Jockey Club

DESIGNED AND PRODUCED FOR THE JOCKEY CLUB BY: NEWHALL PUBLISHING LTD New Hall Lane, Hoylake, Wirral CH47 4BQ newhallpublishing.com THE JOCKEY CLUB thejockeyclub.co.uk All prices and dates in the magazine were correct at the time of going to press. The contents of this magazine are owned by the publisher and may not be reproduced without permission. © Newhall Publishing Ltd 2020.

THE I NTERNAT I ONAL TBC I NFORMAT I ON  SEASON DATES

Don’t miss out on the key dates in the 2020-2021 Jump Racing Season S EA SON DAT E S

 DECEMBER THURSDAY  Eventmasters Christmas At The Races Warwick The International FRIDAY  SATURDAY 

SATURDAY  Warwick TUESDAY  Exeter THURSDAY  Wincanton WEDNESDAY  Wincanton SATURDAY  Festival Trials Day Cheltenham F EBRUARY WEDNESDAY  Exeter WEDNESDAY  Warwick THURSDAY  Wincanton SATURDAY  Warwick SUNDAY  Exeter SATURDAY  Wincanton

FRIDAY  Exeter FRIDAY  Warwick MARCH WEDNESDAY  Wincanton TUESDAY  Exeter THURSDAY 

SUNDAY  Warwick WEDNESDAY  THURSDAY  Cheltenham FRIDAY  Exeter SUNDAY  Wincanton THURSDAY  Exeter THURSDAY  Warwick FRIDAY  Cheltenham MAY MONDAY  Warwick THURSDAY  Wincanton SATURDAY  Warwick WEDNESDAY  Warwick WEDNESDAY  Warwick

Cheltenham TUESDAY  Afternoon Racing Wincanton SATURDAY  Boxing Day Wincanton THURSDAY  New Year’s Eve Racing Warwick  JANUARY SATURDAY 

Wincanton SUNDAY  Warwick The Festival™ TUESDAY  FRIDAY 

Cheltenham MONDAY  Wincanton TUESDAY  Warwick APR I L TUESDAY  Exeter

Wincanton SUNDAY  Exeter

*Sadly, all dates are subject to change throughout the season

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THE JOCKEYCLUB . CO . UK 4

I NFORMAT I ON WHERE TO WATCH

If you are unable to join us on course, you don’t need to miss a beat of the action WHE R E TO WAT CH

I TV RAC I NG The ITV Racing teamwill be back at the Home of Jump Racing with all the action. Located in the Parade Ring, they are in the heart of the action and you won’t miss a beat with all the action for The International meeting and New Year’s Day.

RAC I NG TV For avid racing fans, the Racing TV channel will be showing all our races for all our race meetings. With top racing pundits and analysis, Racing TV is the perfect place to mark your card and hear the most in-depth post-race breakdown. OUR RACEDAY HUB Head online to our Raceday Hub at thejockeyclub.co.uk/ cheltenham and get all the latest news from the course, re-watch historic races and bring the raceday into your home.

SOC I AL MED I A CHANNE L S Make sure you are following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get all the behind the scenes news.

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F EATURE Christmas shopping

Support independent and find some beautiful and unique products from our range of exhibitors this Christmas Treat yourself

Quote Cheltenham2020 20% discount on any purchase

ANDR I F T Antidrift classic

handknitted shooting stockings and garters are beautifully knitted on four needles in a wonderful range of colours and pattern tops. Bespoke orders can easily be knitted. Antidrift also makes classic crocheted string riding gloves

and mittens in beige and white together with hunting gloves in wool and cotton. antidrift.co.uk 01476 585855

ARMS T RONG F I NE ART This piece and all my artwork listed on the website is available in limited prints in two sizes. Commissions undertaken and original artwork for sale. Please quote ‘Cheltenham2020’ when you contact me and claim a 20% discount on any purchase. elizabetharmstrong.co.uk [email protected]

ARKE L L & WI L L S

BANVARD & JAME S Racing Green Holton Umbrella £125. The Holton Umbrella is

Arkell &Wills oer an exclusive collection of contemporary cashmere and jersey. Each piece has the unique A&W lurex stitch, embellishments and stunning branding. Contemporary, fun, aordable and indulgent with uncompromising quality. They oer huge discounts, together with free UK P&P. The perfect special gift this Christmas. arkellandwills.co.uk 01242 374505

made in England using an FSC Italian scorched maple handle and FSC UK beechwood shaft. These are matched with the “nest Italian fabric and silver nickel

detailing to the tip cup and ferrule, and subtle canopy contrasting in burgundy. Comes with full performance guarantee and brushed cotton storage bag. banvardandjames.com 020 3176 5701

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BHO I D Founded in 2015 in the Cotswolds, BHOID is a luxury accessories brand inspired by the British country lifestyle. Passionate about sustaining UK manufacturing, the collections are British made with outstanding quality and €nish and are entirely unique.

For free postage quote RACING2020

C LARE BROWNLOW PHEASANT F EATHER ART Safe Passage A3 print limited to 50 at £250.

bhoid.co.uk 07515 911762

Clare studied art at Edinburgh and Leith School of Art and has sold her paintings all over the world. Her paintings are unique due to her use of pheasant feathers and ink the splatters come as she works the nib over the paper. clarebrownlow.co.uk 07768 619 777

20% o all online orders. Use code BHOID20 at checkout

Free shipping on all telephone orders

BREDON H I L L COUNT RY Fairfax and Favor Regina Heeled Boots. Beautifully crafted fashionable long suede boots with interchangeable tassels, allowing you to personalise your colour scheme. Highly desirable and stunning dress boots, that are sure to wow. A quality ladies Christmas gift idea. Free postage. bredonhillcountry.co.uk 01386 725 281

CONVER SAT I ON P I ECE S ‘Glory Awaits – Cheltenham Festival’ by Peter Smith. Limited edition print of only 500 worldwide. Each print is individually signed and numbered by the artist. Unframed: £120.00. Framed: £195.00. Original painting available to purchase. Many more Cheltenham publications available on the website. ascotgallery.co.uk 0115 9286512

BUT L ER S T EWART The men’s Watson Jacket combines quality with attention to detail and a luxury tted cut; creating an investment piece to be worn for many years which will undoubtedly complement your existing wardrobe. Available in seven stunning tweeds and woven from 100% wool with a striking lining. butlerstewart.co.uk 07941 513650

COT SWOLD RDA Looking for a gift for the person who has everything? Cotswold RDA o˜ers you to chance to make a donation in your loved one’s name or sponsor one of very special ponies and receive a framed photo of your favourite pony. cotswoldrda.org.uk 01242 584420

CHELTS15 for 15% o all mens and ladieswear including sale items

THE JOCKEYCLUB . CO . UK 7

FA I R FAX AND FAVOR The Regina features a 5cm elasticated stretch panel to

achieve the perfect tailored ¡t. A memory foam insole complements a leather/rubber composite sole for improved longevity and ultimate comfort. Dressed up or down, the Regina is a true Fairfax & Favor signature to suit any occasion. The Regina is available in many colours, in suede or leather, with or without a 5cm Cuban heel. fairfaxandfavor.com 01760 388199

DAN I E L CRANE S PORT I NG ART A Grey Day, by Daniel Crane Oil on Panel. Framed size 480mm x 430mm. Here we have two old favourites of many seasons being exercised on a damp, grey day. The fast moving clouds and the direction of their tails show that it is quite windy, the

horses are wide awake! Commissions to order. danielcrane.co.uk | [email protected] 01507 343277 or 07970 441792

GE E GE E COL L EC TAB L E S Vintage hunting accessories and memorabilia, including men’s and ladies’ hunting whips, ’asks, sandwich cases, horns and stock pins. Also English manufactured silver shooting and hunting items. GeeGeeCollectables.com [email protected] 07717 15349

DE LANNS J EWE L S 18ct Yellow Gold Diamond and Emerald Horseshoe Pendant and Chain. Approx. 20 inches long and 22mm x 23mm across the horseshoe. Emerald weight 98pts and Diamond Weight 96pts. £3,200 delannsjewels.com | [email protected] 07836 214322

EQUE S TR I AN ART I NTERNAT I ONAL ‘Neck & Neck’ is an original contemporary oil painting by Vineta Sayer measuring 48 inches x 60 inches (120cm x 150cm). It shows the battle between racehorses and jockeys in mid-’ight. More from the artist available via the website. equestrianartuk.com | [email protected] 020 3642 8784

H I CK S & BROWN The stunning wool felt Suolk Fedora is a timeless addition to your multi-seasonal wardrobe, hand- nished with a cluster of natural feathers fastened behind a branded leather band. Available in seven colour choices and in sizes XS-XL. £89 each. hicksanbrown.com 01284 598 005

Free shipping code: Cheltenham20

F EATURE Christmas shopping

J OUL E S The new season brings a new collection of inspired-by-the- countryside styles at Joules. From snuggly knitwear and accessories, to outerwear that’s designed to see o˜ an autumnal shower in style, their clothing is perfect if you’re looking for fashion that’s as practical as it is stylish. joules.com

H I HO S I LVER I think this year is the €rst time in over 25 years that Hiho won’t physically be at Cheltenham for the races but they are delighted to be available for you 24-7 at their fabulous online store, or call Michelle if you’d like to chat. Classic designs and new designs coming in all the time. Image by Rachel Bragg Photography. hihosilver.co.uk 01460 221006

I N J URED J OCKE Y ’ S FUND This bespoke ‘Injured Jockeys Fund’ cream helps sooth and protect dry or chapped hands. This high quality hand cream is

KN CHE LT ENHAM The Cheltenham is the latest edition to the British handmade handbag collection. Designed speci cally for a day at the races, big enough for all the essentials and small enough to wear all day, it even has a slot for the race card! Available in cognac, navy or black. katenegus.com/kn-lifestyle-home

made in the UK, using natural ingredients and is available for £10. This product is

part of the range of IJF gifts, which help raise funds each year for the charity.

shop.ijf.org.uk 08080 453 453

LALAND & BO Laland & Bo o˜er a unique range of equestrian-style jewellery incorporating silver foxes, hares and pheasants. They have an expanding range of tweeds, unique silk printed scarves, British Fedoras and equestrian themed purses and bags all designed in Northumberland. Huge discounts and o˜ers on Facebook throughout the whole of November.

J ONNY BEARDSAL L M I L L I NERY The wait is over... see the new autumn/winter fedora collection in electrifying faux fur. In a change of direction for the brand, we reimagine our classic over-sized designs in faux, which are as fun to wear as they are a˜ordable. Seeing is believing. Handmade in North Yorkshire. Order online with free shipping or drop in if you are passing. Instagram: @ jonnybeardsallmillinery jonnybeardsall.com

Facebook: Laland&Bo Instagram: Lalandandbo Lalandandbo.com 07967092910

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F EATURE Christmas shopping

LAUR I E & J UL E S Laurie & Jules oer a unique and stylish range of women’s gorgeous collection of leather parkas, faux fur coats, stunning jackets made in the UK, dresses, shirts and knitwear. The fabulous range of hats and feather pins, accessories and unusual jewellery ensure an inspiring shopping experience. laurieandjules.co.uk 013278 60337 or 07753 639451 clothing and accessories. A LOU GRE Y CASHMERE Your ultimate investment in comfort and style. From cashmere jumpers to fabulous ponchos, wraps and accessories – from city to country clothing. Now launched, the amazing little Lou Grey, for the special little people in your life lougrey cashmere.co.uk

MAUDE AND FOX Maude and Fox creates British tweed clothing for ladies and gents giving this very classic British fabric a bit of a contemporary twist. All products are made in Dorset and are designed to be practical with design ƒair. Bespoke tweaks and sizes can also be made. maudeandfox.com 01258 489 628 [email protected]

Free P&P promotion code: Races

20% discount and free shipping – code CHELT20

MHD WAT CHE S BUGAT T I  I NS P I RED T Y P E ­ Cheltenham-based car designer turned watch maker, Matthew, the former Morgan Cars Chef Designer, found the raw exposed engineering detail of the famous Bugatti Type 35 was the ‘perfect inspiration’ to create his new time piece, the Type 1. Limited edition, 100 pieces at £745 with free shipping mhdwatches.com

MONTANA COUNT RY COL L EC T I ON Whether you are looking to replace your old hat, add to your collection or “nd the perfect present, the gents’ hat range of trilbies, caps and bush hats are of the highest quality. Following the latest styles and colours you will see and feel the quality and authenticity behind every cap and hat available. montananorthallerton.com 07702 052676

020 3633 9551 info@lougrey cashmere.co.uk

20% o when using the code cheltenham20 at checkout

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F EATURE Christmas shopping

RAC I NG POS T Get ahead of the eld this Christmas with Racing Post’s thoroughbred gifts for any horseracing fan. racingpost.com/shop

For 15% o any ostrich leather belt, enter the code LOVEBELTS15

OS T R I CH LOVE Genuine ostrich leather belt. These ostrich leather belts are traditionally handmade in South Africa, using only the nest exotic leather. Suitable for gentleman and ladies, an ostrich leather belt looks equally as good paired casually with a pair of chinos, as it does more formally with a suit. Available in

REAL LY WI LD C LOTH I NG Inspired by the country,

15% OFF everything:

an array of colours. ostrich2love.com 07595 904366

designed for modern life. Collections that travel seamlessly

RACE15 – Oer closes 28.02.21

P EACHY BE LT S Peachy Belts’ beautiful range of Italian leather belts are handmade in the UK and have easily detachable buckles. There are some great new colours and buckles for Christmas, perfect with jeans. Belts come in three widths

between an urban and rural lifestyle, o˜ering timeless yet

individual pieces that are designed to be lived in. reallywildclothing.com 01491-352600

and anything can be changed – phone for sizing and colour advice. peachybelts.co.uk 01664 454994

Enter SHOPPING20 at checkout to get 20% o

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POLO NECK DE S I GNS Polo Neck Designs is dedicated to bringing you the very best quality clothing at aordable prices. Their Polo Necks are made from 100% natural cotton with Lycra in the collar and cus. Choose from an extensive range of colours and patterns. poloneckdesigns.com 01638 731868

S CAR L E T T WOODS

Scarlett Woods is a luxury women’s brand selling leather Cartridge handbags with interchangeable straps, a variety of small leather goods (card holders, coin purses, keyring tassels), gloves and a stunning selection of two-tone reversible pashminas. Perfect gifts for Christmas and beyond! scarlettwoods.com 020 8480 0930

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F EATURE Christmas shopping

S CUL PTURE TO WEAR Sculpture to Wear by Rosemary Hetherington is celebrating

THE HUNT I NG S TOCK MARKE T Lady Waterford Hunt Coat, £790. These beautifully crafted coats are made using the nest quality British Cavalry Twill and Merino Wool Tattersall lining. Made by a quality British tailoring company to a traditional pattern, these coats have the benet of modern waterproof interlining through the body, quiet interior, waterproof skirt lining and elasticated storm cu‹s. huntingstockmarket.com SUS I E PR I NGL E CASHMERE & ACCE S SOR I E S One-stop-shop for Scottish cashmere and more. New designs to treat yourself in these strange times. Stylish pearl jewellery. Although we can’t socialise in the same way they make you feel good about yourself. Inspiring presents for men, women and tiny people, as well as home accessories to cheer up your surroundings! Free P&P plus gift wrapping. susiepringle.com 01491 571567 or 07769 903062

30 years of making the nest equestrian-style jewellery. Established 1990. As customers say,

“Jewellery for every day and special occasions!” Craftsman made in Great Britain. Enquiries to Rosemary. sculpturetowear.co.uk 01969 634949 [email protected]

S I R GORDON BENNE T T This Christmas treat the ones you love with gifts made with love. From handcrafted bags and artisan skincare to beautiful homeware and classic kitchenware.

Guaranteed British provenance to support British craftsmanship. From special gifts to perfect stocking llers for those

Enter SirJockey10 for 10% o and free delivery this Christmas

who appreciate quality. sirgordonbennett.com 0800 2343053

01264 810858 sales@hunting stockmarket.co.uk

T I MOTHY FOX X Exceptionally eccentric

For FREE P&P use the code KALENDAR20 at checkout. Oer ends 31/1/21

tweed clothing and accessories. Beautiful Scottish tweed made into the nest jackets and skirts along with accessories including •at caps, earwarmers, tweed boot tassels, facemasks, cushions, tweed scrunchies and lots more. timothyfoxx.co.uk 01296 641658

Oer – Free postage for all orders over £50!

S TART SMART Startsmart’s aim is to provide smart, high quality and good value children’s clothing to be worn, loved and enjoyed. Although noted for the classic style, Startsmart also o‹er

a fabulous range of country clothing with a street-smart city twist. You can be sure to nd the perfect outt! startsmart.co.uk 01386 710000

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F EATURE Christmas shopping

For 10% discount enter the code TL10 . Valid until 24/12/20

WI NN I NG COLOUR S Providing bespoke, luxury gifts embroidered with the racing colours

TOM LANE Oering a range of luxury socks and knitwear, designed and made in Britain. Specialising in merino and

alpaca, the beautiful range of shooting socks for men and women combines traditional manufacturing techniques with the
nest materials to create timeless products with durability and high performance in mind. tomlane.co | [email protected] – focused on design, function and quality with a distinctly British edge. Welligogs produce comfort- inspired style with freedom and joy woven into the heart of its products, available worldwide. WE L L I GOGS WG by Welligogs In uenced by the lifestyle they love and consistent customer feedback each year, “WG that’s me!”

of your choice – your family’s, your friend’s, your own! From footstools to cu-links, there’s something to suit everyone. Order via the website or phone; gift wrapping and international shipping available on request. winningcolours.co.uk | [email protected] 01206 395931

WOR LD S ECRE T S The new ‘O Piste Boots’ are 4×4 boots with style! Comfortable and practical yet not too heavy; with a memory

Enter the code KMCF15 for 15% of all non-sale items over £50

For free postage enter the code HappyMail

foam innersole, sheepskin lining and their signature style Ikat on the

tongue. Available in navy, tan and black. worldsecrets.co.uk 07908 449116

welligogs.com 01785 662277

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WI NGF I E LD D I GBY The Guinea Fowl Feather Photo Frame, as featured in You & Your Wedding , is currently the number one, best-selling Wing
eld Digby product. The gorgeous monochrome feathers work well with any photograph, from black and white to striking colours, and will look stunning in all settings. wingelddigby.co.uk 01403 342808 info@wing elddigby.co.uk

ZULUCOW Zulucow’s exquisite cowhide rugs are robust and high quality. The cowhide bags, belts and cushions (
nely crafted from sumptuous natural leather and cowhide) and springbok rugs make unique Christmas gifts. Zulucow’s funky wall art (stag and zebra heads) add a ‘wow factor’!

zulucow.co.uk 07983 627710

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LARA TELFER REINED IN CHARITY ALBUM

NEW YEAR ’ S DAY 1 January 2020

R I NG I NG I N THE NEW Y EAR

This year more than most, we will be waving goodbye to 2020 and excited to see what 2021 has in store. Cheltenham Racecourse looks set to welcome the New Year in style

H istorically, the town heads to their head from the evening before. Although this year means we won’t all be able to gather in the usual way, with the help of ITV Racing and Racing TV, we will be able to put on quite a show. The rst raceday of 2020 saw a number of Festival winners take to the stage across the thrilling seven-race card. With the Dornan Engineering Relkeel Hurdle (Grade 2) hosting an all-star eld including the Mares’ Hurdle winner, Prestbury Park to start the year the only way they know how, with a spot of racing and clearing Roksana, Sky Bet Supreme Novice Hurdle winner, Summerville Boy and Coral Cup

the year, but we were treated to one of the greatest nishes we have seen for many years. Lalor, Oldgrangewood and Saint Calvados were three abreast as they charged up the Cheltenham Hill in the most valuable contest of the day, the Paddy Power Handicap Chase. It was Oldgrangewood who came out on top in the photo nish. The nine-year- old took the lead at the last under Harry Skelton and was all out to repel the late challenge of Saint Calvados by a nose, with long-time leader Lalor returning to form for trainer Kayley Woollacott and jockey Aidan Coleman who rallied well in third, another nose behind. Chris Giles, who owns the winner in

Handicap Hurdle winner William Henry all taking their chance. It was the longest-priced of the three, Summerville Boy under Jonny Burke who came out on top after making all the running to see o˜ Mares’ Hurdle heroine Roksana for the Skelton team by two and a quarter lengths. William Henry nished third of the Festival winning trio for Nicky Henderson and jockey Nico de Boinville. Winning trainer Tom George said: “Jonny gave him a great ride and we will enjoy the day. We have been good on the big days and have had a great Christmas – long may it continue.” It may have only been the rst day of

THE JOCKEYCLUB . CO . UK 15

NEW YEAR ’ S DAY 1 January 2020

WE WERE TREATED TO ONE OF THE GREATEST FINISHES WE HAVE SEEN FOR MANY YEARS

Barry Geraghty were ‡ne, and went onto right those wrongs in the RSA Chase at The Festival, getting the better of two Irish raiders in one of the most thrilling ‡nishes of the week. The departure of Champ left the way clear for Midnight Shadow trained by Sue Smith, who had appeared booked for second. Sue Smith said, “We can do no more than jump round and he has run a nice race. Whether if the other horse had stood up, we would have beaten him up the hill because he is a con‡rmed stayer, but jumping is the name of the game.” Try not to think about the back to work blues and enjoy your ‡nal day with friends and family during the Festive season. Keep up to day with all the action on thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham.

partnership with his wife Sandra, said, “It was a super race with good horses and I enjoyed it. Oldgrangewood is getting better – he had a wind op and it was good training from the Skeltons. He is improving and I think there is a little bit more to come.” It wouldn’t be a Cheltenham raceday without a few thrills and spills and the Paddy Power Broken Resolutions Already Dipper Novices’ Chase certainly provided that. All eyes were on the red-hot favourite Champ, a dual Grade 1 winner over hurdles and had won both his starts over fences coming into this race. The eight-year-old travelled well and the pair looked to have the race at their mercy only the take a crashing fall two fences from home. Both Champ and

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THE I NTERNAT I ONAL 13-14 December 2019

Christmas comes early to Cheltenham every year, with the greatest gift of them all – two days of quality racing action at the Home of Jump Racing CHR I S TMA S CRACKE R

W ith the festive season about to enter the home straight, Cheltenham regulars rarely leave the racecourse without a spring in their step from The International meeting. With an overseas are in the cross country race, and a Gold Cup of its own, the race meeting is a highlight of the Christmas racing calendar and kick starts the festive sporting season. Day one of the meeting hosts the popular Grade 3 Handicap Chase which in 2019 saw local favourite Cogry return to form when holding o the popular Rock The Kasbah (James Best) by a short

holding o Stolen Silver in the British EBF ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle. Next into the Winners’ Enclosure were the familiar colours of Mrs Patricia Pugh when Pym came home in front under Nico do Boinville. The gelding ”nished clear in the 3m1½f Novices’ Chase, and a very pleased Nicky Henderson said of the performance: “He is very honest and straightforward and consequently he is not one you get excited about every day. He gets out of bed, does his work and is uncomplicated. And that is what he was the whole way round.” French raider, Easysland claimed a decisive success in the Glenfarclas

head for jockey Sam Twiston-Davies. A delighted Sam said of the win: “When you want to become a jockey, it’s because you’ve been watching horses like him go round. He put in some massive leaps and tried incredibly hard. This is one we’ll really enjoy.” The day had gotten o to a yer for trainer Nicky Henderson who had a quick-”re double in the opening races on the day. Chantry House looked a very exciting prospect for the green and gold team of Cheltenham Festival ambassador, Barry Geraghty and JP McManus. Justifying odds-on favouritism, the stable star showed all his promise when

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THE I NTERNAT I ONAL 13-14 December 2019

highlight on Day Two of the meeting, and it was the David Pipe-trained, Warthog that got his head in front for jockey David Noonan. In a thrilling ‡nish, the pair got up by a head to pip Spiritofthegames. Pipe said: “In the past he has been a bit of a weak ‡nisher and I wasn’t really con‡dent. We half thought about going for the two-mile race, but had no weight in this, so we decided to give it a go. David Noonan gets on well with him and it was important to get a good start and get the ‡rst few (fences) right – it was poetry in motion after that.” Kick start your festive celebrations with quality sporting action, and as previous years have shown, you’re bound to be shown a few clues ahead of the big one in March. Catch all the action on ITV Racing, Racing TV or via our raceday hub at thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham

Cross Country Chase, and laid down the gauntlet to dual Randox Health Grand National winner, Tiger Roll ahead of their much-anticipated clash in March. Trainer, David Cottin was delighted with his winner and Easysland’s part-owner at the time David Futter said: “He is not overly big and that is why we got him cheaply at the sales, but I’ve been at it long enough to know it’s what’s in their heart and head that matters. Did we think he would take us to Cheltenham? No. I’m a kid from a housing estate watching this on the television and I never ever in my life thought I’d have a winner here, so we are going to enjoy the moment. We work hard and play hard and we will play tonight!” Easysland went on to win at The Festival in March, beating hot favourite and racing superstar Tiger Roll in the process. The Caspian Caviar Gold Cup is the

WE WORK HARD AND PLAY HARD AND WE WILL PLAY TONIGHT!

THE JOCKEYCLUB . CO . UK 19

F EATURE Kian Burley

Kian’s golden ticket As Kian Burley walked around Cheltenham Racecourse on day one of The Festival™, dressed immaculately in a three-piece suit, shirt and tie, racegoers shouted his name and oered friendly thumbs up salutes

F EATURE Kian Burley

S topping to chat with ITV Racing presenters Ed Chamberlin, Oli Bell and Francesca Cumani, he then posed for pictures with the many who wanted to say hello by the paddock. He ran through the card with Racing TV’s Nick Luck and chatted pre-race tactics with jockeys and trainers by the weighing room, even oering advice of his own. While this might be perfectly normal during Festival week for the likes of JP McManus, Michael O’Leary and Rich Ricci, the one receiving all the attention was a nine-year-old-boy called Kian Burley. Kian was diagnosed with cerebral palsy on his “rst birthday, leaving his family devastated. Mum, Hannah, said: “I was heartbroken when I “rst found out. It just wasn’t something I ever thought would happen. But

“Kian’s never speechless but when Paddy walked in he didn’t know what to do or say. I was stood in the corner with some other teachers and we were all crying!” Kian himself admitted: “I was so surprised. I couldn’t believe he’d come all the way to my school to see me and my friends!” The surprise was captured on “lm by The Jockey Club with the video going viral. As a result, when Kian turned up at Cheltenham with his mum and grandparents, Tina and Dave, he had celebrity status. Hannah laughed: “We hadn’t got ten yards through the gate and he was having his photo taken with Ruby Walsh. Then we were into the weighing room, meeting the ITV team. Kian was asking Ed Chamberlin if he could have his job! It was surreal to see Kian chatting away to jockeys like Barry Geraghty and Davy Russell. He was in his absolute He’s a con“dent boy who just loves racing and everything about the sport. The whole day was fantastic and a dream come true for him.” Kian capped his extraordinary day by catching up with his favourite trainer Fergal O’Brien and, of course, Brennan, before sending him on his way out to the track with his now famous shout of “Go on Paddy lad!” Brennan and Cap Soleil managed sixth in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle. However, the result was unimportant to one of Jump racing’s most passionate, ambassadors. Kian said: “I’d been to Cheltenham before but not for The Festival. It was amazing. It’s a shame Paddy didn’t win but I had a fabulous day.” And while Kian might be Brennan’s biggest fan, it’s fair to say the feeling is mutual. Brennan smiled: “Kian’s probably the bravest racegoer you could imagine. It could be snowing and he’s just sat out there waiting for me to come out of the weighing room, no matter what the temperature is. Some things in life you can ignore, some things in life you walk past, but you de“nitely don’t walk past Kian. It’s great to see his enthusiasm. He loves racing and loves the buzz of going racing. We could do with a few more Kians!” element. At one point he even asked Gordon Elliott if Paddy could ride Tiger Roll in the Grand National!

he’s never let anything beat him. He’s always carried on with a smile on his face.” With a zest for life and a love of all things sport, Kian has followed horseracing passionately for years. His love of the Jumps, in particular, has prompted mum Hannah to drive him

Some things in life you walk past, but you de nitely don’t walk past Kian

around the country at every opportunity, usually to support his favourite jockey, Paddy Brennan. So in February The Jockey Club’s communications team hatched a surprise plan to get Kian to Cheltenham for Day One, giving him and his family the VIP treatment. In just 24 hours his headteacher at Rossington St Michael’s CE Primary School in Doncaster agreed to give Kian the day o and allowed The Jockey Club to hijack school assembly. Paddy Brennan jumped at the opportunity to deliver the surprise in person, despite a 5am alarm and 300-mile round trip from the Cotswolds. There were gasps from Kian and his fellow Year 4 pupils when Brennan walked into the school hall, clutching four VIP tickets and the original Cheltenham Gold Cup. “Paddy’s brilliant with Kian and always stops to chat with him,” said Hannah. “He’s given him goggles, culinks, racecards and all sorts over the years. We’re always going racing to the smaller meetings and I’d told Kian that when he’s ten he can go to the Festival.

THE JOCKEYCLUB . CO . UK 21

F EATURE STARTING OUT

Bryony Frost on why ponies are the perfect way to attract youngsters to horseracing Junior Jumpers

T here’s nothing quite like But racing’s future should be just as important to us all – without it we won’t have a sport to enjoy in the years to come. That’s why The Jockey Club’s South West Region created its Junior Jumpers initiative, designed to give young people the chance to get close to the action, learn about horses and meet some of the people who help put the horseracing show on the road. Now Junior Jumpers has teamed up with St James City Farm & Riding watching back some of the great races of yesteryear and celebrating our sport’s history. School, an inner city farm in Gloucester helping youngsters learn more about the countryside and animals. As part of the charity partnership a new racing pony called Zara will live at St James City Farm and represent our Junior Jumpers in future pony races, with members able to follow her progress, watch her race and even visit her in her stables. Here Jockey Club Racecourses- sponsored rider, Bryony Frost, explains how pony racing helped kick-start her

‘no I’m Žne, I can just stand here’. And they would stand like rocks until you leant forward slightly and ‘clicked’ them once and then they were gone like a jack-in-a-box! It also taught me to ride undulations on tracks and to ride bends. These ponies don’t hang about! “Pony racing is one of those things that can open young people’s eyes to something that they might want to get into. It’s giving them that opportunity to go and suss it all out and to see if they’re going to get the bug for racing. “I was incredibly lucky to have my whole family involved in racing. I was proud as punch as a kid to say my dad had won the Grand National and Hadden to have won at The Festival. But I think the world of people who have decided to take a slightly di—erent route from their family and their careers to have a go at something di—erent. Pony racing allows strong-willed people, no matter what age they are, to see if horses and racing is for them. And that doesn’t matter whether it’s a career or a way of life or just as a hobby at that age. It’s just about getting people interested.”

own Grade One-winning jump racing career: “When I was really young I had a donkey called Nosey. My brother, Hadden, was already pony racing and I thought to myself ‘I’m deŽnitely doing that’. I started when I was nine, ended up pony racing lots and had 30-odd winners. “Pony racing was a huge leg-up for me. Not so much from a tactical race-riding perspective because pony racing is generally ”at out from start to Žnish – that’s the aim of the game. But where it really taught me to be sharp and where I messed up quite a few times was at the start. The start is so vital in racing. You can win or lose before the race is even properly under way. Pony racing really got me very sharp at the start. I trained my ponies deliberately to stand completely still on the line. And if I ‘clicked’ them once that was it, they were gone like lightning! “I didn’t do turning round. The starters used to hate me when I started point- to-pointing. They’d be asking me to take a turn but I would point-blank refuse and stand on the line! I’d be like

22 KALENDAR

THE JOCKEY CLUB OWNERSHIP 2020/22 CHELTENHAM AND SOUTH WEST SYNDICATE EVER FANCIED A SHARE IN A RACEHORSE? A UNIQUE AND EXCLUSIVE SYNDICATE FOR THOSE WHO TRULY LOVE THE EXCITEMENT OF JUMP RACING AND DREAM OF OWNING A FESTIVAL WINNER

A FEW OF THE BENEFITS OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP:

“The Cheltenham and South West Syndicate is a particularly exciting opportunity for racing enthusiasts as it includes full annual membership to Cheltenham, Exeter, Wincanton and Warwick. It really is a great way to experience the joy of racehorse ownership.”

• Three top trainers including Nicky Henderson, Harry Whittington and Kim Bailey • Prize money and increased value of horses dividends • Organised stable visits and trips • Two year complimentary membership to Cheltenham, Exeter, Warwick, and Wincanton Racecourses • An exclusive members facility at The Festival™ • Meet our Ambassadors Ed Chamberlin, Adam Henson, Lee McKenzie, and Jonny Bairstow • Exclusive events, updates, and newsletters • Racing Manager integration

Ed Chamberlin ITV Racing Presenter & SW Syndicate Ambassador

MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE NOW FOR JUST £3,250pp FOR TWO YEARS JOIN US TODAY BY CONTACTING HANNAH ON (+44) 07790 356820 OR EMAIL [email protected] OR VISIT WWW.THEJOCKEYCLUB.CO.UK/CHELTENHAM

F EATURE THE CHELTENHAM AND SOUTH WEST SYNDICATE

We are ocially into the Jump Season ‘proper’, as they say… The Syndicate

A ll three of the Cheltenham and South West Syndicate horses have had their rst runs of the season, and we are set for an exciting few months. You can nd out more about the syndicate at thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham . Docpickedme (Derek) is ‘the new kid on the block’ this season and we’re all very excited to see how he follows up his impressive debut this season when nishing second at Aintree. We caught up with Emily Shepherd, a key member of Harry Whittington’s team who knows him best of all for an insight into a typical day for the yard. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PUPIL ASSISTANT AT HARRY WHITTINGTON RACING: EMILY SHEPHERD 6:30AM: All the lads come in for 6:30 and, with just over 50 boxes to get through, we get stuck straight in with the mucking out. We each have our own sections to do, which is great because it means you get to know each of the horses on your row really well and likewise, they get into a routine with their regular stable lad or lass.

7:00AM: The work riders are in and the rst lot are on the walker as the sun starts to rise… hopefully! There are some days where it is freezing cold and raining and you go through about three sets of clothes in a morning, but when the sun comes out and all the horses are gleaming, you feel like you are on top of the world up at Hill Barn. 9:00AM: Time for breakfast (and hopefully some biscuits or cake). The rst two lots have been ridden and done up – that is they have cooled-o˜ after exercise and have their rugs back on by this point. The boss likes to make sure everything is kept warm and the job is done properly so no corners get cut with horse care, which is especially important this time of year as they can easily catch a chill after exercise. 9:30AM: Usually we will have three more lots after breakfast, unless we have been schooling (jumping) or it is a ‘work’ morning where the horses do a stronger and usually quicker piece of exercise to what they do on a day-to-day basis as part of their interval training regime.

11:30AM: By now everything has been ridden and all the riders will be doing up their horses, which involves giving them a really good brush. We each have our own horses to look after which includes keeping them well-groomed and taking them to the races when they run; each person has about ve or six horses under their supervision. As pupil assistant I only have three horses as I am at the races a lot more often than some. I love making them look smart for the Parade Ring, in fact, I think I have just about every type of brush, spray and quarter markers going in my racing kit! 4:00PM: If we haven’t been racing, then its evening stables. This consists of lling water buckets, feeding the horses hay, changing rugs if necessary and general tidying up, before feeding and nal checks to nish up for 6pm. There is no better feeling for me than leaving the yard in the evening and knowing that all the horses are tucked up and cosy. Like any job, it can be a bit tough at times, especially when the weather is testing and the mornings are early. But the rewards are more than worth it in my opinion, just getting to work with some amazing horses makes me very happy to call this my job.

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