UK Horse Racing Tips

Bred and owned by Bjorn Nielsen and trained by John and Thady Gosden, Stradivarius is the leading stayer of his generation. Now retired, the son of Sea The Stars had won 20 of his 35 races over seven seasons and £3.4 million in prize money. He has the distinction of being named Cartier Champion Stayer in 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Indeed, in both 2018 and 2019, Stradivarius won the so-called ‘WH Stayers’ Million’, a £1 million bonus awarded to any horse that won a recognised preparatory race – in his case, the Yorkshire Cup – followed by the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot, Goodwood Cup and Lonsdale Cup. After paying out the bonus for the second time, Charles Hamilton, Chief Executive of Weatherbs Hamilton, said, ‘”I think, realistically, we have to declare this particular fight to be over…’

Stradivarius won the Gold Cup for the third successive year in 2020, emulating Sagaro, who did likewise, under Lester Piggott, in 1975, 1976 and 1977. After disappointing performances in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and the British Champions Long Distance Cup at the end of the 2020 season, he returned to form when readily winning the aptly-named Sagaro Stakes at Ascot on his reappearance in April, 2021. Often ridden by Frankie Dettori, but with fellow Italian Andrea Atzeni on board for his final run in August 2022, Stradivarius certainly made his mark in the racing world.

In January, 2018, 54-year-old Andrew Green, who hails from Washingborough, Lincolnshire, won in excess of £1.72 million playing Frankie Dettori Magic Seven Blackjack online at Betfred Casino. By his own admission, Green went ‘absolutely crazy’, splashing out over £2,500 on celebrating with friends and family. However, those celebrations were cut short when, a few days later, a Betfred director contacted him amd broke the news that the firm would not be paying out his winnings after all.

Betfred claimed that Green had only received his windfall as the result of a ‘software error’, or ‘defect’, which prevented the game from resetting correctly during his gaming session – a situation, the company said, which was covered by its terms and conditions – and withheld payment. Unsurprisingly, Green disagreed and sued Petre (Gibraltar) Limited, trading as Betfred, for £2 million in the High Court.

Having refused a so-called ‘goodwill’ gesture of £60,000, subject to a gagging order, Green had to wait over three years, through no fault of his own, but eventually won his case. Hight Court judge Mrs. Justice Foster found that ‘clauses in the terms and conditions are inadequate to exempt Betfred from the obligation to pay out’ and, consequently, the company ‘had no realistic prospect of successfully defending the claim’. She awarded summary judgement to the plaintiff, to the tune of £1.72 million plus interest and costs, which effectively cost Betfred £600,000 more than if the company had paid Green his winnings in the first place.

A spokesperson for Betfred said that the company was acting on advice from a third-party supplier in withholding payment, but nonetheless apologised to Green and confirmed that the company would not be appealing the decision. Naturally euphoric, Greem said afterwards, ‘I think Betfred have treated me abysmally, but it’s not about Betfred today. I’m just ecstatic to have eventually won my case.’

Royal Ascot is a prestigious horse racing event held annually in the United Kingdom. With a rich history spanning over three centuries, it has become synonymous with elegance, high fashion, and world-class horse racing. This article delves into the captivating story of Royal Ascot, tracing its origins, notable moments, and enduring traditions.

The Beginnings of Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot traces its roots back to 1711 when Queen Anne, a devoted horse racing enthusiast, first spotted the potential of the Ascot area for organizing races. What started as a modest event featuring only a few races quickly gained popularity among the aristocracy and the wider public.

In 1711, Queen Anne ordered the establishment of Ascot Racecourse, a permanent venue for horse racing. The racecourse’s location, set amidst picturesque Berkshire countryside, provided an idyllic setting for this prestigious event.

During the early years, Royal Ascot received strong support from the British royal family, with subsequent monarchs attending the event and contributing to its development. The presence of royalty elevated the status of Royal Ascot and attracted widespread attention.

The Royal Enclosure, established in 1807, is the most exclusive section of Royal Ascot. Accessible only to those with a royal invitation or a prestigious membership, it epitomizes glamour, sophistication, and strict dress codes. This revered enclave showcases the finest fashion and fascinators, setting global trends for formal attire.

The Ascot Gold Cup

One of the most renowned races at Royal Ascot is the Ascot Gold Cup. First run in 1807, this gruelling test of stamina and speed has attracted legendary horses and jockeys throughout history. The Ascot Gold Cup remains a highlight of the event, captivating spectators with its thrilling displays of equine prowess.

Punters and tipsters alike try to pick the winner of this historic race and it certainly garners a lot of attention from the press as you draw closer to the big meeting.

Royal Procession: A Regal Tradition

Each day of Royal Ascot begins with a royal procession. Led by the Queen and other members of the royal family in horse-drawn carriages, this grand spectacle announces the commencement of the day’s racing. The procession is a symbol of tradition and regality, adding a touch of royal splendour to the event.

Royal Ascot has earned a reputation as a fashion Mecca, where attendees showcase their sartorial elegance and creativity. The event’s strict dress code guides guests to adhere to traditional and formal attire, with ladies wearing hats or fascinators and gentlemen donning top hats and morning suits. Fashion enthusiasts from around the world eagerly anticipate Royal Ascot for its fashion-forward displays.

The Global Appeal of Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot’s allure extends far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom. Its global appeal attracts visitors, participants, and horse racing enthusiasts from all corners of the world. The event has become an international icon, renowned for its blend of sporting excellence, regal traditions, and high fashion.

With its long-standing history and prestigious reputation, Royal Ascot captures the imagination of people across continents. The event is broadcasted to millions of viewers worldwide, allowing them to experience the excitement and grandeur of the races from the comfort of their homes. Horse racing enthusiasts, fashion aficionados, and even those with a passing interest in the sport eagerly await Royal Ascot each year.

Modern Royal Ascot: Tradition Meets Innovation

While Royal Ascot embraces its rich traditions, it also evolves to stay relevant in the modern era. The event combines the elegance of the past with contemporary elements to create a unique experience for attendees. From innovative racecourse facilities to digital advancements enhancing the viewing experience, Royal Ascot strikes a delicate balance between heritage and innovation.

Furthermore, Royal Ascot has diversified its offering beyond horse racing. It now includes live music performances, culinary delights, and luxury shopping experiences, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. These additions have broadened the event’s appeal and attracted a wider audience.

In the present day, Royal Ascot remains a highlight of the British social calendar. It takes place over five days in June, attracting a mix of royalty, celebrities, and horse racing enthusiasts. The event showcases a line-up of prestigious races, including the Ascot Gold Cup, the Queen Anne Stakes, and the King’s Stand Stakes.

Royal Ascot also holds cultural and economic significance. It contributes to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and generating revenue for the surrounding areas. Additionally, it promotes tourism, drawing visitors from around the globe who explore the vibrant city of London and the picturesque countryside of Berkshire.

Royal Ascot stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of horse racing, fashion, and regal traditions. With its remarkable history, timeless elegance, and global recognition, it continues to captivate audiences worldwide. From the founding of Ascot Racecourse to the grandeur of the Royal Enclosure, Royal Ascot weaves together the stories of royalty, sporting excellence, and sartorial splendour.

As Royal Ascot evolves with the times, it remains a cherished event that unites people in their love for horses, fashion, and the thrill of the races. Whether one attends in person or watches from afar, the magic of Royal Ascot is an experience that leaves an indelible mark on all who encounter it.

The Game Spirit Chase is a Grade 2 steeplechase run over 2 miles and 92 yards at Newbury in February. Open to horses aged five years and upwards, the race is named in honour of Game Spirit, a prolific steeplechaser owned by the late Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother during the Seventies. Inaugurated in 1953, the Game Spirit Chase was promoted to Grade 2 status in 1992, having previously been run as a Listed handicap. Since 2012, the race has been sponsored by Betfair and is currently known, for sponsorship purposes, as the Betfair Exchange Game Spirit Chase.

Paul Nicholls has saddled seven winners of the Game Spirit Chase, namely Flagship Uberalles (2000), Kadarann (2003), Azertyuiop (2004 & 2005), Master Minded (2008 & 2010) and Mr. Mole (2015), making the Master of Manor Farm the leading trainer in the history of the race. Other high-profile winners down the years include Dunkirk (1965), Viking Flagship (1994 & 1996), Sprinter Sacre (2012) and Altior (2017, 2018 & 2020), all of whom won the Queen Mother Champion Chase, or the Two-Mile Champion Chase, as it was originally known, at least once. And let’s not forget Pendil (1973), who won the King George VI Chase twice and was just touched off, at odds-on, in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Unsurprisingly, for a race that routinely attracts a single-figure field, the Game Spirit Chase has proved a rewarding contest for favourite backers, with seven of the last ten market leaders successful, albeit it prohibitive odds on the whole. Recent trends also suggest that an official rating of 154, or higher, is a pre-requisite, as are at least six runs, and two wins, over regulation fences. At the time of writing, the 2023 renewal of the Game Spirit Chase is just days away and Greaneteen, who ticks all the boxes for recent winners, is a top-priced 4/7 to continue Nicholls’ dominance.