The action at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday, March 29 delivered an exciting afternoon of competitive jump racing, with seven races showcasing a mix of emerging talent, seasoned performers, and strong finishes across varying distances.
The opening contest at 1:55 PM, The Ascot Racecourse Supports Horse Rangers Hampton Maiden Hurdle Race over 2m 3f, saw Gnomon produce a polished display to claim victory under Kevin Brogan. The runner travelled smoothly throughout and showed a decisive turn of foot in the closing stages to pull clear, marking an impressive breakthrough performance in a competitive Class 2 field.
At 2:30 PM, the David Keen Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m 5f 13y provided a thrilling spectacle as Sherborne (IRE), ridden by Freddie Gingell, delivered a determined effort. The Irish contender handled the fences confidently and stayed on strongly up the run-in, holding off challengers to secure a well-earned win in this Class 4 contest.
The 3:05 PM race, the Sodexo Live! Juvenile Handicap Hurdle over 1m 7f 210y, saw King Al shine under Tom Bellamy. Displaying sharp jumping and good pace, the juvenile hurdler controlled the race effectively before quickening away late on, confirming strong potential in this competitive division.
Tom Bellamy enjoyed further success at 3:40 PM in the Ascot Racecourse Supports Priors Court School Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m 172y. Haas Boy (FR) delivered a confident round of jumping and showed resilience in the closing stages, staying on well to land the Class 3 prize and give Bellamy a notable double on the card.
The stamina test at 4:15 PM, the Barrie Wells Box4Kids Novices’ Handicap Hurdle over 2m 7f 209y, went the way of Kilworth (IRE), ridden by Ben Jones. The gelding proved strongest in the latter stages, relishing the extended trip and gradually asserting control to win convincingly, highlighting his staying capabilities.
At 4:50 PM, the Sodexo Live! Veterans’ Handicap Steeple Chase, part of the Stayers’ Veterans’ Chase Series, saw Hold Your Fort (IRE) produce a standout performance under Callum Pritchard. The experienced runner demonstrated excellent jumping and stamina over the 2m 7f 185y trip, fending off rivals with determination to claim a well-deserved victory.
The final race at 5:25 PM, the Colts and Fillies Club Handicap Hurdle over 2m 6f 10y, wrapped up the meeting with Glynn Brae (IRE) emerging on top. Partnered by Toby McCain-Mitchell, the winner showed consistency and strength in the closing stages, finishing the day on a competitive note.
Overall, the Ascot meeting on March 29 delivered quality racing across all classes, with standout performances from Gnomon, Sherborne, and King Al, while Tom Bellamy’s double added a notable highlight. The varied distances and competitive fields ensured an engaging day for racing enthusiasts, reinforcing Ascot’s reputation as a premier venue for National Hunt racing.
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