Ascot will step into its winter rhythm today as the Ascot 22nd November Winter Meeting ushers in a card expected to showcase sharp talent, returning favourites and the kind of atmosphere late-autumn racing is known for. Trainers are likely to walk into the yard with focused intent, giving their runners calm reassurance before saddling time. Jockeys may spend the morning running through their lines, visualising the rhythm of each race and the pace scenarios they may face. The grounds should carry a quiet tension as the crowd filters in, waiting for that first spark of action. All signs point to a day that could shape the opening chapter of winter’s racing story.
Feature Races Light Up the Middle of the Card
The highlight quartet sits at the heart of the meeting, headlined by the 1965 Chase, the Ascot Hurdle, the Berkshire National and the Hurst Park Chase. Each carries its own identity, but all share the promise of setting early-season markers. Ascot’s fences are unforgiving when the pressure rises, and today’s conditions look perfect for clarity: firm minds, fresh legs, and a crowd ready to lean into every stride.
Race-by-Race Preview (Today’s Expected Action)
Restorations UK Novices’ Hurdle – 12:25pm
A steady, measured opener where rhythm will matter. OFF THE JURY, ETNA BIANCO and PERCY SHELLEY may try to control the early flow, while BIG TICKET and BLUE CARPET could lurk, waiting for the long straight to tip the balance. Novice events at Ascot often reveal which yards have winter-ready jumpers.
Mares’ Handicap Hurdle – 12:55pm
A deep contest featuring seasoned mares looking to kickstart their campaigns. BOBBI WITH AN I and PRESENTING DOY may look sharp early, but GOOD LOOK CHARM and SHANTWOPOINTFIVE might prefer patience. The final 300 yards should tell the story.
1965 Chase (Grade 2) – 1:30pm
The first major set piece of the day. JANGO BAIE and IL EST FRANCAIS could attempt bold, attacking tactics reminiscent of past front-running stars. PIC D’ORHY and MASTER CHEWY likely wait to pounce if the tempo stiffens. This race often becomes a statement-maker for the months ahead.
Berkshire National Handicap Chase – 2:05pm
A long-distance test where grit outweighs flair. ROCK MY WAY and ASPUROFTHEMOMENT may try to stretch the field early, while MANOTHEPEOPLE and LARGY POET might save their lungs for the final climb up the straight. The Berkshire National rarely rewards hesitation.
Ascot Hurdle (Grade 2) – 2:40pm
One of the afternoon’s most anticipated renewals. GWENNIE MAY BOY and CELTIC DINO may push the pace, forcing rivals to stay honest. NEMEAN LION and WODHOOH could wait for the ideal moment as the pressure builds. This race often reveals the first big-name hurdler of the winter.
Hurst Park Handicap Chase – 3:15pm
Fast, sharp and always unpredictable. TEDDY BLUE and MARTATOR may try to set a furious rhythm, while BOOTHILL and SHAKEYATAILFEATHER could conserve energy for one decisive burst. Expect a bold ride from someone.
Novices’ Handicap Hurdle – 3:45pm
The finale mixes ambition with inexperience. ABSOLUTELY DOYEN and CREADAN GRACE might look to dominate early, while DOCTOR MIDAS and NIGHT STALKER may angle for a patient, late challenge. Often the race that produces next month’s improver.
As the Ascot 22nd November Winter Meeting approaches, the sense of anticipation feels almost tangible. Today’s runners look ready, the ground should be fair, and the energy around the track suggests a day that could shape the early winter conversation.
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