Ascot staged a calm and well-ordered midweek card on Wednesday, December 17, marked by understated elegance throughout the afternoon. Seven races run between 11:39am and 3:05pm were conducted smoothly, with balance and order across the programme. Free entry brought a relaxed crowd, festive lunches set the tone on the Member Floor, and the racing progressed at a steady, unhurried pace. It was a composed afternoon, defined by efficiency and simplicity rather than spectacle.
The meeting opened smoothly with Race 1 – A1 Engineering Maiden, where ROCK THE MARKET struck early, stopping the clock at 01:11.48. Clint Johnston-Porter delivered a confident ride for trainer Simon A Miller, representing breeder Mr D J Reed and owner Trucking Nominees Pty Ltd. POBLANO and THE ROCKET followed home after honest efforts, setting a composed tone for the day.
Momentum carried into Race 2 – Swan Draught Handicap, as MY HARV prevailed in 01:30.92 under a controlled ride from Jordan Turner. Colin Webster had the gelding primed, rewarding breeder Mogumber Park and a broad ownership group. FIRE THE LOT finished resolutely in second, while PONY UP stayed on to complete the placings.
In Race 3 – Morley Growers Market Handicap, BIRD ON A WIRE delivered a polished performance, stopping the clock at 01:51.41. Zephen Johnston-Porter partnered the Rebecca Nairn-trained runner with precision, reflecting careful placement and timing. Breeder Rangeview Stud and owner George Dennis Nominees Pty Ltd were duly rewarded, as SWEET SURRENDER and AH KUM chased home.
The competitive balance continued in Race 4 – MCA Polytrack Handicap, where HELLUVA GODDESS claimed victory in 01:10.93. Holly Nottle executed the plan perfectly for trainer Paul Hunter, with breeder Moore Investments Pty Ltd and a large ownership group celebrating the result. PRINCESS IN RED stayed on strongly for second, while COME ON EMMA finished late to secure third.
Stamina and timing proved decisive in Race 5 – Reliable Asset Maintenance Handicap, as DE GRANDHOMME emerged on top in 01:11.50 under a well-judged ride from Lucy Fiore. Adam Durrant once again found the right formula in preparation, rewarding breeder Mr E van Heemst and an extensive ownership group. RANYX stayed on gamely for second, with SOLDIER OF GOD completing the trio.
The afternoon found its focal point in Race 6 – A.T.A. Stakes, a Listed contest worth $125,000 and the richest race on the card. PLAYHOUSE PATRON delivered with authority, stopping the clock at 02:17.06 and confirming the class that set this race apart. Jason Whiting produced a measured ride, allowing the horse to settle before striking decisively. Bob McPherson’s preparation was finely tuned, rewarding breeder Mrs B Lammie and owners Mr R C McPherson, Mrs J A McPherson, and Mrs B Lammie. FILTHY HABITS chased with intent to take second, while FOREVER BOY stayed on resolutely to complete the frame.
The meeting concluded in fitting style with Race 7 – Glenroy Chaff Handicap, as TERRITORY MAN signed off the day in 01:25.83. William Pike executed the plan to perfection for trainers Grant and Alana Williams, while breeder Mr M Sinclair and a wide ownership group celebrated a polished closing note. RALLY THE TROOPS finished with purpose, and SKYTALKER stayed on to round out the placings.
In reflection, PLAYHOUSE PATRON’s Listed success provided the defining image of an afternoon built on balance rather than excess. Four $30,000 races formed a strong competitive core, while free entry and festive hospitality created an inclusive, relaxed atmosphere. As Ascot turns its attention to Saturday, December 20, and the shift into full Christmas mode, this midweek meeting stands as a measured bridge — composed, confident, and quietly effective.