A wave of emotion swept through Aintree Racecourse as Hitman produced a stirring victory in the Grade Two William Hill Old Roan Limited Handicap Chase, turning the iconic track into a stage for both triumph and tribute.
The nine-year-old, trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by Freddie Gingell, claimed his long-awaited glory in the two-and-a-half-mile feature, returning to the scene of near-misses with a determined, heartfelt run. Having finished runner-up in both 2022 and 2024 and unplaced last year, Hitman finally found his moment — and did so in the name of a fallen friend.
A Victory Beyond Racing
Owned in a partnership that includes Sir Alex Ferguson and Ged Mason, Hitman carries more than just racing colours — he carries meaning. Mason has pledged that every penny the horse earns this season will go to the Ricky Hatton Foundation, created in memory of the two-time world champion boxer who tragically passed away last month at 46.
As the gelding surged past Master Chewy after the final fences to win by two lengths, the cheers that followed weren’t just for a racehorse — they were for Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton.
“From early in his career, I sponsored Ricky,” said Mason, his voice thick with feeling. “When we found a horse called Hitman, it just felt right. He’s been the bridesmaid a few times but came good today — and I truly think he did that for Ricky up there.”
Mason continued: “I’m absolutely delighted that we can help Ricky’s legacy. The foundation will receive all of Hitman’s prize money, starting with today’s £34,864. Nobody needs to fight alone — that was Ricky’s message, and now it’s ours too.”
Nicholls and Gingell Celebrate a Worthy Winner
For Paul Nicholls, the win marked another milestone in a glittering career, while young rider Freddie Gingell showcased calm maturity beyond his years. Hitman travelled smoothly throughout, took command two fences out, and stayed on resolutely to fend off the late challenge of Master Chewy, with last year’s winner Minella Drama a further length and a half back in third.
Mason’s long-time friend Paul Speak, who managed Hatton for years, summed up the sentiment ringside: “Ged Mason is an amazing man. You won’t find a more generous heart in sport. I said a prayer today — and it was answered.”
As Gingell was lifted high on Mason’s shoulders in the winner’s enclosure, there was a sense that this victory stretched far beyond the racecourse — a reminder that racing, at its best, is about heart as much as horsepower.
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