Jeremy Clarkson Celebrates First Race Win With The Hawkstonian
Jeremy Clarkson has enjoyed a milestone moment away from television after his first racehorse secured a maiden victory, giving the broadcaster and farmer a reason to celebrate with a well-earned beer.
A First Victory for Clarkson’s Syndicate
The Hawkstonian, a grey gelding owned by a syndicate fronted by the Clarkson’s Farm presenter, opened his winning account with a determined success at Ffos Las on Friday. The horse is named after Hawkstone Brewery, which produces beer using ingredients sourced from Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm.
Clarkson is part of a wider ownership group managed by Old Gold Racing, with the horse trained by respected National Hunt handler Ben Pauling.
A Meaningful Connection to Diddly Squat Farm
There is a personal link between the trainer and Clarkson’s farming journey. Ben Pauling’s family previously worked the land that later became Diddly Squat Farm and played a role in teaching Kaleb Cooper how to farm — adding an extra layer of significance to the win.
A Steady Path to Success
The Hawkstonian made his racecourse debut in November 2024, finishing sixth in a National Hunt Flat Race at Uttoxeter. Two further bumper runs followed, with the gelding finishing in the placings for the first time at Ffos Las in February last year.
This season, the horse transitioned to hurdling, finishing third at Sedgefield in November and fifth at Huntingdon in December — performances that suggested progress without yet delivering a breakthrough.
Battling Performance at Ffos Las
Returning to Ffos Las for a two-mile novices’ hurdle, The Hawkstonian went off at odds of 15-2. Ridden by jockey Ben Jones, he travelled prominently before taking the lead three hurdles from home.
Despite a strong late challenge from Emerald Breeze, the gelding showed determination to hold on and cross the line three-quarters of a length in front, securing his first career victory.
Celebrations for Syndicate Members
A large group of syndicate members were present to witness the moment, many of whom had bought into the horse through £60 shares from a total of 3,250 available.
For Clarkson, the win marks an encouraging start to his involvement in racing — and proof that his first venture into horse ownership has real potential both on and off the track.
