The autumn jumps season takes centre stage in this Ascot race preview for 1 November 2025. From novice hurdlers finding their rhythm to elite handicappers chasing six-figure purses, Ascot Racecourse promises an afternoon of compelling National Hunt action under crisp autumn skies.
Race 1 – The Grundon Waste Management Conditional Jockeys’ Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 4)
Time: 12:55 pm
Distance: 2m 3f 147y
Prize Money: £16,500
Opening the day, this novices’ handicap hurdle sets the tone for a lively afternoon. Akimos, representing Nicky Henderson with Freddie Gordon in the saddle, looks progressive and well-schooled. Paul Nicholls’ Byzantium brings quiet confidence, while Fergal O’Brien’s John Barbour — ridden by Fern O’Brien — adds youthful flair. Sage Green and Mount Anglesby round off a field where conditional jockeys will be eager to stamp early authority on Ascot’s sharp hurdles track.
Race 2 – The Ascot Underwriting Novices’ Limited Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3)
Time: 1:30 pm
Distance: 2m 2f 181y
Prize Money: £20,000
The switch to fences brings intrigue and uncertainty as novice chasers test their mettle. Viroflay, trained by Paul Nicholls and partnered by Miss Olive Nicholls, looks an improving sort with scope to progress. Don’t Tell Su, from Nicky Henderson’s yard under Nico de Boinville, could prove dangerous if his fluent schooling translates to the track. Lylian (Gary & Josh Moore) and No Questions Asked (Ben Pauling/Ben Jones) complete a balanced lineup where jumping accuracy is likely to decide the outcome.
Race 3 – The Grundon Waste Management Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 1)
Time: 2:05 pm
Distance: 2m 172y
Prize Money: £100,000
The afternoon’s first feature race carries prestige and rich prize money. Boothill, guided by Bryan Carver for Harry Fry, stands out for his experience and late turn of pace. Sans Bruit, a Nicholls runner under Jay Tidball, will look to assert dominance early, while L’Eau du Sud (Dan Skelton/Tristan Durrell) may relish the ground conditions. General Medrano (Emma Lavelle/Ben Jones) and Special Cadeau (Henry de Bromhead/M.P. O’Connor) bring depth to a classy field where tactical positioning will be key.
Race 4 – The GL events Novices’ Hurdle (Class 3)
Time: 2:35 pm
Distance: 2m 7y
Prize Money: £16,500
A smaller but quality field lines up for this novice hurdle, where composure and control often triumph. Trustintimes, trained by Harry Fry and ridden by Bryan Carver, looks steady and improving. Start Again (Fergal O’Brien/Kielan Woods) adds interest with proven stamina, while Military Alliance and Directly could play their cards late. Expect a tactical affair where smooth rhythm over the smaller flights will define the winner.
Race 5 – The Lavazza Handicap Hurdle (Class 2)
Time: 3:10 pm
Distance: 2m 7y
Prize Money: £60,000
This high-value handicap pits seasoned hurdlers against rising contenders. No Ordinary Joe (Faye Bramley/Kevin Brogan) brings class and consistency, while Afadil (Paul Nicholls/Freddie Gingell) arrives fresh after a light campaign. Washington (Harry Derham/Paul O’Brien) adds further strength to the lineup, alongside Alexie and Ooh Betty, who could surprise if conditions stay on the softer side. With Ascot’s long run-in demanding stamina, this race should offer one of the most exciting finishes of the day.
Race 6 – The Sodexo Live! Gold Cup Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 1)
Time: 3:45 pm
Distance: 2m 7f 185y
Prize Money: £100,000
The feature event of the afternoon, the Sodexo Live! Gold Cup, brings together a compelling mix of experienced stayers. Two for Gold (Kim Bailey & Matt Nicholls/Ciaran Gethings) looks solid at this level, while The Changing Man (Joe Tizzard/Brendan Powell) continues a promising ascent through the handicap ranks. Henry’s Friend (Ben Pauling/Ben Jones) and Marble Sands (David Killahena & Graeme McPherson/Kielan Woods) add depth and differing running styles. Expect a battle of stamina and courage as they face Ascot’s punishing final climb to the post.
Race 7 – The Ascot Round table Open National Hunt Flat Race (Class 2)
Time: 4:20 pm
Distance: 2m 7y
Prize Money: £16,500
Closing the meeting, this National Hunt flat race often reveals the stars of tomorrow. Bathara (Jonjo & A.J. O’Neill/Jonjo O’Neill Jr.) arrives with strong home-gallop whispers, while Run Away Joe (Fergal O’Brien/Liam Harrison) has impressed in preparatory work. Loustic du Chatel (Henrietta C. Knight) and Governors Island (Harry Fry/Bryan Carver) look smart types, while Can You Feel It (Christian Williams/Jack Tudor) could spring a late upset. For followers of novice form, this finale is not one to miss.
Course Insights and Further Reading
Ascot’s jumps circuit is a right-handed, galloping track where balance and fluent jumping are critical. Stamina usually tells, especially in the long home straight.
For official course and fixture information, stay tuned to Racebuzz.
