Victory at Ffos Las

Jeremy Clarkson, the former Top Gear host, celebrates his first success as a horse racing owner. The six-year-old grey gelding, The Hawkstonian, secured a triumphant win in the 13:50 Novices’ Hurdle at Ffos Las racecourse in Wales on Friday.

Named after Clarkson’s popular Hawkstone beer, the horse overcame early challenges since its purchase in 2023. After a tough initial season, The Hawkstonian finally crossed the finish line first, bringing joy to Clarkson, now 65.

Clarkson’s Celebratory Reaction

Excited by the news, Clarkson shared his delight on social media platform X. “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 pointed out the timing during Dry January, Clarkson quipped that the tradition doesn’t apply when one owns a brewery and a pub. He launched the Hawkstone Brewery in 2021 and runs his own establishment, adding a personal touch to the victory.

Training Insights and Future Prospects

The Hawkstonian trains under Ben Pauling, a trainer with multiple Cheltenham Festival victories. Pauling commented last year on the horse’s potential, noting Clarkson’s transition from mechanical horsepower to the unpredictable world of racing.

“Jeremy is used to horsepower of a different kind, and one that doesn’t have a mind of its own,” Pauling stated in 2025. “So his first season as a racing owner may have tested his patience. It’s great fun to be training for him, and all the team are hoping The Hawkstonian will get himself into the winners’ enclosure as soon as he possibly can. We think he’s going to make up into a nice jumper, so this upcoming season is an exciting one with him set to go over hurdles.”

The horse’s own social media account echoed the enthusiasm on Instagram: “Buy that horse a beer! We knew it was coming … He’s been getting better and better. Well done to the team @benpaulingracing and well done to every one of our Hawkstonians who have supported him and our friends.”

Ownership Through Syndicate

Clarkson acquired The Hawkstonian via his syndicate, Old Gold Racing, which opens ownership to multiple investors. The group issued 3,250 shares over 14 months, each priced at £60, fostering a shared excitement in the win.

This milestone marks a promising start for Clarkson in horse racing, blending his entrepreneurial spirit with the thrill of the track.