In an unexpected twist at Ascot, Shishkin, with Nico de Boinville as jockey, didn’t participate in the race.
Meanwhile, the Betfair Chase at Haydock saw Royale Pagaille emerge victorious, stunning spectators. The horse, priced at 5-1 and ridden by Charlie Deutsch for trainer Venetia Williams, outperformed Bravemansgame, the second-placer in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Deutsch expressed his excitement, noting, “He just kept going, and suddenly, he was just so full of life under me.”
The scene at Ascot was quite the drama, with Pic D’Orhy claiming the 1965 Chase after Shishkin, a two-time Cheltenham Festival champion, unexpectedly backed out at the beginning.
Shishkin, under the guidance of trainer Nicky Henderson, had an impressive record with 13 wins out of 17 races, including a victory at the Aintree Bowl. Despite being the 8-13 favorite in a four-horse contest, Shishkin, alongside jockey Nico de Boinville, did not start, paving the way for 5-2 contender Pic D’Orhy, trained by Paul Nicholls, to seize the win. The race also featured 40-1 underdog Straw Fan Jack.
Nicholls and jockey Harry Cobden, who chose Ascot over Haydock where they might have ridden Bravemansgame, celebrated their second of four victories at Ascot.
Daryl Jacob, who replaced Cobden on Bravemansgame at Haydock, was unable to catch up to Royale Pagaille, known for winning three out of four previous races at the venue.
The Grand National champion Corach Rambler secured third place, while the 2022 Betfair Chase winner Protektorat came in last among the four competitors.
Back at Ascot, trainer Henderson was baffled by Shishkin’s behavior and worried about the possibility of a similar situation occurring in the upcoming King George VI Chase.
“He usually jumps off without a hitch. He can be peculiar at times, but jumping off is never an issue. Today, however, he just wasn’t in the right frame of mind,” Henderson remarked.
In another event, Grey Dawning won the Graduation Chase at Haydock, marking a milestone for trainer Dan Skelton and his brother, jockey Harry Skelton, as it was their 1,000th joint victory – a first for siblings in British racing history.
Over at Punchestown, Willie Mullins’ trainee State Man effortlessly won the Morgiana Hurdle.
For the latest updates and results in horse racing, stay tuned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Horse Racing News
Why did Shishkin not race at Ascot?
Shishkin, ridden by Nico de Boinville and trained by Nicky Henderson, unexpectedly did not participate in the race at Ascot. The reason was not clearly stated, but trainer Henderson described Shishkin as being in a mood and not willing to move.
Who won the Betfair Chase at Haydock?
Royale Pagaille, ridden by Charlie Deutsch and trained by Venetia Williams, won the Betfair Chase at Haydock. The horse was a 5-1 shot and successfully beat the Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up, Bravemansgame.
What was the outcome of the 1965 Chase at Ascot?
Pic D’Orhy, trained by Paul Nicholls, won the 1965 Chase at Ascot after the favorite, Shishkin, did not start the race. This victory was one of four wins at Ascot for Nicholls and jockey Harry Cobden.
Did any significant milestones occur in British racing recently?
Yes, a significant milestone was achieved by trainer Dan Skelton and jockey brother Harry Skelton at Haydock, where they celebrated their 1,000th win together. This is a first in British racing history for siblings.
What was the result of the Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown?
State Man, trained by Willie Mullins, easily won the Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown, showcasing a strong performance in the race.
More about Horse Racing News
- Horse Racing Latest News and Results
- Ascot Racecourse Events and Updates
- Haydock Park Racecourse News
- Trainer and Jockey Milestones in Horse Racing
- Punchestown Racecourse Latest News
6 comments
wow, Shishkin just not starting, thats really unexpected..always thought he was a sure bet, guess not this time huh?
This weekend was full of surprises in the horse racing world, can’t wait for the next round of races!
Seriously, what’s up with Shishkin? Henderson seemed really confused, hope the horse is okay and it’s just a one-off thing
Royale Pagaille winning at Haydock is huge! Venetia Williams must be over the moon, great training job there
Nicholls and Cobden cleaning up at Ascot, they’re an unstoppable team! Sad I missed betting on that one
State Man at Punchestown, totally called it. Mullins’ horses always seem to come through, never disappoints