Juddmonte International on Almaqam’s radar

Ed Walker is confident he made the right decision to sidestep Saturday’s Coral-Eclipse with stable star Almaqam and is looking forward to taking on th…

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RECENT LAMBOURN WINNERS

6:00 Uttoxeter, 8th July

Hope Rising

Jamie Snowden

She is by the Irish Guineas winner, out of a winning dam who was rated over 100 on the flat, and she is related to plenty of good winners. However, she achieved very little on the flat herself. That said, she works very well at home, she jumps super, but a mistake at the 3rd last on her hurdling debut put pay to her chances. She made amends next time out when bolting up at Southwell. She ran a big race when 2nd last time out under a penalty as she lost 10 lengths at the start! She should run another big race here, but takes on a smart flat performer.

PRICE 5/4F
3:45 Worcester, 7th July

Handlethekettle

Jamie Snowden

By three-time Arc runner up, Youmzain, out of a three-time winner, and a half-brother to the five-time winner Curley Finger. Handlethekettle tipped up on both his Irish Point-to-Point starts for Paul Cashman but jumped fluently when 2nd on his first start under rules in a maiden hurdle at Listowel. The form of that race has been boosted since. He won well on his debut for us at Worcester in the autumn, and the form of that race has been boosted since too. He disappointed in a Grade 2 on his final run last summer, but fresh from a break and on his first start after wind surgery, he defied a penalty in a novice hurdle in the spring. He disappointed on chasing debut, but his jumping fell apart. Back over hurdles, and on handicap hurdle debut, he won well last time out over course and distance. Up 4lbs, he will have to improve again but he has the scope to do so.

PRICE 6/4F
1:50 Sandown, 5th July

Rumstar

Jonathan Portman

Rumstar ran fine at Royal Ascot but without collecting. We try again here and he is well. It wouldn’t be my track of choice for him but options limited.

PRICE 11/2
3:43 Newton Abbot, 4th July

Shillanavogy

Warren Greatrex

Winner last time out at Cartmel, he remains in good form and will go well again despite his hike in the weights.

PRICE 6/5F

Awaiting highlighted comment…

Almaqam and Oisin Murphy win the Star Sports Brigadier Gerard Stakes for trainer Ed Walker at Sandown. 29/5/2025 Pic Steve Davies/Racingmediapics.co.uk
Realistic Optimism and Gavin Sheehan [right] win the Davisons Law Handicap Hurdle from Square Du Roule at Stratford. 1/7/2025 Pic Steve Davies/Racingmediapics.co.uk

OUR TRAINERS’ STATISTICS FOR THE CURRENT FLAT & JUMPS SEASONS

GB FLAT    Current Season Jan 2025-Dec 2025

TRAINER WINS RUNS STRIKE % PRIZEMONEY
Ed Walker 28 186 15 £857,017
Richard Hughes 39 241 16 £598,946
Archie Watson 36 312 12 £485,878
Owen Burrows 13 63 21 £470,051
Clive Cox 14 149 9 £448,345
Roger Teal 14 91 15 £395,704
Charles Hills 16 159 10 £333,631
Jonathan Portman 25 134 19 £321,245
Daniel & Claire Kübler 17 123 14 £228,025
Jamie Osborne 16 165 10 £190,210
Tom Ward 11 93 12 £123,035
Mark Usher 11 146 8 £122,765
Tom Dascombe 5 80 6 £91,624
William Muir & Chris Grassick 7 64 11 £89,141
Stan Moore 7 108 6 £83,673
Warren Greatrex 3 57 5 £64,744
Paul Attwater 2 66 3 £61,174
Henry Candy 3 23 13 £60,233
Dominic Ffrench Davis 4 52 8 £45,653
Edward Smyth-Osbourne 4 20 20 £35,959
Nicky Henderson 0 6 0 £11,444
Harry Derham 1 6 17 £8,683

GB JUMPS    Current Season May 2025-Apr 2026

TRAINER WINS RUNS STRIKE % PRIZEMONEY
Jamie Snowden 17 55 31 £155,965
Nicky Henderson 10 27 37 £73,993
Warren Greatrex 11 19 58 £65,207
Harry Derham 4 12 33 £28,644
Archie Watson 1 1 100 £3,433
Oliver Signy 0 10 0 £3,324
Dominic Ffrench Davis 0 3 0 £398
Paul Attwater 0 1 0 £0

News in Brief

Warned-off Greg Fairley to take first ride since 2011

Greg Fairley is set to take his first ride for 14 years at Ayr on Monday having been cleared to return by the BHA’s licensing committee after he was warned off for 12 years in 2011 for stopping a horse running on its merits and passing on information for reward. The 37-year-old, who was champion apprentice in 2007 and won a German Group 1 in 2010, has been successful in getting his licence back after a previous application in May last year was rejected.

Richard Kingscote set to leave Group 1 winner Time For Sandals in favour of Hong Kong

Richard Kingscote has admitted the decision to walk away from Group 1 winner Time For Sandals was tough, but that the pull of a part-season licence in Hong Kong was stronger. The rider partnered the Harry Eustace-trained filly to a 25-1 success in last week’s Commonwealth Cup and hopes to ride her again before he departs for the Far East, with a return to that part of the world described as a “great opportunity” by the Derby-winning rider.

Amo Racing appoint Kevin Philippart de Foy as new retained trainer

Kevin Philippart de Foy says he has been presented with “an opportunity I can’t refuse” after being announced as Amo Racing’s new retained trainer, a role which will see him take over from Raphael Freire imminently at the lavishly refurbished Freemason Lodge in Newmarket.

Thurso and Finley Marsh [right] wins the Betfred 'Nifty 50' Handicap from Kisskodi at Haydock. 22/5/2025 Pic Steve Davies/Racingmediapics.co.uk

You are spoilt for choice with our Lambourn trainers

THE Lambourn Trainers Association (LTA) is a pivotal organization that stands at the heart of British racing, representing the interests and aspirations of trainers based in the world-renowned Lambourn Valley. Nestled in the Berkshire countryside, Lambourn has long been the training ground for some of the finest racehorses in the world. The Lambourn Trainers Association plays an instrumental role in preserving and advancing this rich heritage, supporting its members, and ensuring that the valley continues to thrive as a hub for top-tier racehorse training.

A Legacy of Excellence in Racing

For over a century, Lambourn has been synonymous with excellence in horse racing. The valley boasts a unique combination of traditional values, cutting-edge facilities, and a deep connection to the sport’s history. The LTA represents over 40 trainers who work out of Lambourn’s expansive training grounds, including some of the biggest names in the sport. This close-knit community of professionals has helped shape Lambourn into one of the most successful and prestigious training centres in the UK.

The association’s goal is to ensure that Lambourn remains at the forefront of British racing by supporting trainers in every aspect of their work. From offering guidance on racing regulations to lobbying for better infrastructure and facilities, the LTA is a vital resource for trainers of all levels. By fostering collaboration and unity within the training community, the LTA helps maintain the valley’s reputation as a world-class training centre.

Supporting Trainers, Supporting Racing

The Lambourn Trainers Association provides invaluable support to trainers by offering a collective voice on critical issues facing the racing industry. The LTA works closely with other racing bodies, such as the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and Racing Welfare, to ensure that the needs of trainers are properly represented. The association lobbies for policies that enhance the working environment for trainers, improve welfare standards for racehorses, and advocate for fair and sustainable financial practices within the industry.

Additionally, the LTA is committed to promoting the Lambourn Valley as a prime destination for racehorse owners, breeders, and enthusiasts. With access to the finest gallops, state-of-the-art training facilities, and unparalleled local expertise, the trainers in Lambourn offer an environment where horses can develop to their fullest potential. This reputation has attracted a global clientele, with owners from all over the world choosing Lambourn to train their prized horses.

Networking and Collaboration

One of the key strengths of the Lambourn Trainers’ Association is its emphasis on collaboration. Trainers in Lambourn work together in a spirit of camaraderie, sharing ideas, resources, and knowledge to achieve the best outcomes for their horses. The LTA fosters this sense of community by organising regular events, seminars, and social gatherings where trainers can exchange insights, discuss trends, and explore new techniques. These opportunities for networking ensure that trainers stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving sport.

Mgheera and William Buick win the Betfred Temple Stakes for trainer Ed Walker at Haydock. Photo: Steve Davies/Racingmediapics.co.uk
Mgheera and William Buick win the Betfred Temple Stakes for trainer Ed Walker at Haydock. Photo: Steve Davies/Racingmediapics.co.uk

Investing in the Future of Racing

Looking ahead, the Lambourn Trainers Association is committed to ensuring that the future of British racing remains as bright as its past. The LTA invests in education and training programs to help the next generation of trainers build the skills they need to succeed in this competitive industry. Whether through apprenticeships, mentorships, or specialized courses, the LTA ensures that Lambourn remains a nurturing environment for emerging talent.

In conclusion, the Lambourn Trainers’ Association is more than just a professional body; it is the heartbeat of a community that is passionate about the sport of kings. By championing the interests of trainers, supporting welfare initiatives, and ensuring that Lambourn continues to lead the way in racehorse training, the LTA plays a crucial role in the ongoing success of British racing. Whether you are a trainer, owner, or fan of the sport, the LTA is an essential organisation that ensures the future of racing is as successful as its storied past.

There is also information and contact details for all our trainers; the history of training horses in Lambourn; where to stay; our annual Lambourn Open Day – which is held on Good Friday every year.