Author: James Dooley

This Sunday, armchair jockeys and racing enthusiasts alike can dive into a thrilling day of racing action as our seasoned Timeform TV Focus team brings you the latest insights and expert tips for the ITV racing events at Windsor and Fakenham. Lean back in anticipation and let their decades of horsemanship guide you through a whirlwind of equine excellence set to unfold on the tracks. Windsor: A Day to Remember We gallop into the day’s itinerary with a sharp focus on the storied grounds of Windsor. Here, the skillful Timeform team lays out their top picks, carefully chosen from a…

As the excitement builds for a thrilling day of horse racing, all eyes turn to the anticipated face-off between the racing giants, Jonbon and Energumene, at the iconic Ascot racecourse. The Grade 1 BetMGM Clarence House Chase, scheduled to go off at 3:32 PM, promises a head-to-head battle that has experts and enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation. A Race to Remember: Jonbon vs Energumene The clash between Jonbon and Energumene commands attention for several reasons. Separated by only a single pound on the official ratings, the competitive edge leans slightly towards Jonbon, who is priced at 8-13, contrasting with Energumene at…

As the sun rises over Windsor, the anticipation is palpable for the much-awaited Fleur De Lys Chase this Sunday. Lovers of the turf are keen to see if Djelo, the rising star under Venetia Williams’ careful watch, can once again outpace Protektorat despite a slight handicap increase of three pounds. Their last meeting was a showcase of Djelo’s prowess, as he sprinted ahead by six lengths in the Peterborough Chase. Emerging Talents and Seasoned Contenders Beyond Djelo, towering with potential, the field is rich with skill and experience. Pic D’Orhy steps onto the track bringing a sterling reputation, fresh from…

The Clarence House Chase stands as the weekend’s most riveting spectacle, heralding the new year with a monumental face-off. Two Titans of the horse racing world, Jonbon and Energumene, prepare to thunder down the track, each aiming to secure dominance. Jonbon, currently favored at 8/11 odds for the Champion Chase, is determined to demonstrate his prowess. Racing enthusiasts eagerly await whether Jonbon, in his preferred conditions, will have the upper hand over the seasoned Energumene, a two-time Champion Chaser. Will Jonbon’s strategic advantages, like racing right-handed on a flat track, propel him to triumph, or will Energumene’s experience clinch victory…

In response to rising living costs, equestrian businesses and organisations are stepping up to ease financial pressures on horse owners. These initiatives focus on making essential horse care affordable while encouraging preventative measures to avoid costly issues down the line. Affordable Vet Care: Prevention Over Cure Many veterinary practices have offered monthly payment plans for equine health, including vaccinations, dental care, and routine check-ups for years. Now, some practices are taking it further.The Hook Norton Veterinary Group (HNVG), based in Oxfordshire, has introduced its Equiplan Gold scheme for £30 a month. This plan covers routine examinations, annual hoof balance X-rays,…

Newcastle takes the spotlight today with eight exciting races. The showdown between Coqolino and Rattling Road is the highlight of the day. 1:35 PM Newcastle – Coqolino and Rattling Road Headline the Main Event Coqolino, trained by Ben Haslam, is ready for a strong run after finishing third at Kelso in his last race. Richie McLernon will ride JP McManus’ ten-year-old in the Novices’ Handicap Chase, aiming for his first win over fences. Lucinda Russell’s Rattling Road comes into this race with confidence after winning at Hexham last month. Carrying a 6lb penalty, he is expected to perform well again.…

Horse racing, a sport with a rich history, embraces modern technology to create a better experience for fans, bettors, and participants. Innovations like data analysis, real-time tracking, and new training tools are changing how races are prepared, run, and enjoyed. Technology has made it easier to understand and predict race outcomes. Tools like GPS trackers and sensors measure a horse’s speed, heart rate, and stride during a race. Trainers and jockeys can use this real-time information to make quick decisions, improving a horse’s chances of winning. Bettors also benefit from this data, which helps them make smarter bets. Historical data,…

Daryl Jacob, the Grand National-winning jockey, has decided to retire after an incredible career, with his final race set for Sunday. Jacob, 41, rode the Willie Mullins-trained Impaire Et Passe to victory in the Grade One Faugheen Novice Chase at Limerick on Saturday. The win was fitting for the Irishman to close his career, having delivered yet another triumph for long-time supporters Simon Munir and Isaac Souede. Jacob’s retirement comes after a lengthy and successful journey in the saddle. He famously won the 2012 Grand National aboard Neptune Collonges, cementing his place in horse racing history. Although he initially planned…

An Arabian mare named Echoquette, officially recognized as the world’s oldest horse, died at 36 after what her owner described as a “long and extraordinary” life. According to Guinness World Records, Echoquette passed away unexpectedly from acute liver failure at her home in Texas, US. The record-holding mare lived a remarkable life that left a lasting impression on her family and everyone who met her. Born on May 8, 1988, in Arizona, US, Echoquette’s journey took her across the globe. She moved to Switzerland at age four, where she became the first horse owned by Andrew Haus and his family.…

Oisin Murphy, the reigning champion jockey, may not be chasing his crown as hard in 2025. Instead, he plans to prioritise riding top-class horses rather than competing daily. A Shift in Priorities After a stellar 2024 season with 163 winners, Murphy aims to concentrate on riding top-class horses and managing his workload. Speaking from South Africa, where he recently celebrated a win, Murphy explained, “I doubt I’ll be in the running for champion jockey this year. I want to focus on riding good horses and staying fresh for the biggest races.”He highlighted several promising horses, including New Century, a Grade…