Jeremy Clarkson, the former Top Gear host, celebrates his first success as a horse racing owner after his six-year-old grey gelding, The Hawkstonian, secured a maiden win in the 13:50 Novices’ Hurdle at Ffos Las in Wales.
The Thrilling Victory
The Hawkstonian, named after Clarkson’s popular Hawkstone beer, overcame early struggles to triumph on Friday. Clarkson acquired the horse in 2023 through his Old Gold Racing syndicate, which offers shares to enthusiasts at £60 each, with 3,250 shares issued over 14 months.
Trained by renowned Cheltenham Festival winner Ben Pauling, the horse showed promise despite a challenging debut season. Pauling noted last year that Clarkson, accustomed to mechanical horsepower, faced patience-testing moments in his initial foray into racing ownership.
‘Jeremy is used to horsepower of a different kind, and one that doesn’t have a mind of its own,’ Pauling said. ‘It’s great fun to be training for him, and the team hopes The Hawkstonian will reach the winners’ enclosure soon. We believe he’ll develop into a strong jumper, making this hurdle season exciting.’
Clarkson’s Joyful Celebration
Clarkson, aged 65, shared his excitement on social media platform X, confirming the victory at the Blue Ditch course. ‘Hawkstonians, I’m receiving word that our horse triumphed today at the Blue Ditch course in Wales,’ he posted. ‘I’m going to celebrate with a beer.’
When fans teased him about Dry January, Clarkson dismissed the concern, stating it doesn’t apply when you own a brewery and pub. He launched the Hawkstone Brewery in 2021 and runs his own establishment.
The Hawkstonian’s official Instagram account echoed the sentiment, posting: ‘Buy that horse a beer! We knew it was coming. He’s been getting better and better—well done to the team @benpaulingracing and to every one of our Hawkstonians who have supported him and our friends.’
