Old Gold Takeover

There's no feeling quite like watching horse getting their head in front, so when two manage to do it in the space of 35 minutes, it's a pretty big deal!

Chaos Control and Stroll On By both went to Market Rasen and whilst both had good chances, there were some fancied runners in their respective races. However, as always, the Old Gold Racing supporters travelled in numbers and Market Rasen quickly turned into a temporary HQ for fans of 'Chaos' and 'Rolo'.

Chaos Control, under the trustworthy hands of Charlie Hammond, was first up in a five-runner Handicap Hurdle which saw Ittack Blue dominate the market after his impressive victory over course and distance last month for the Skeltons.

Charlie seemed happy to let those who wanted to go forward do just that and Chaos settled in behind the leaders. Passing the line for the first time it was single file formation with Skelton now establishing a clear lead with both Quaresome and Chaos stalking him. Down the back straight, the five who were in with a winning chance turned to four, including a strong travelling Chaos.

The Skelton horse pressed on round the final bend, but his response wasn’t immediate and both Quaresome, Chaos and Castel Gandolfo looked to have the measure of the favourite!

Two out. Both Quaresome and Chaos jump it well and the pair quickly race on ahead of Castel Gandolfo, who seemed to struggle with the injection of pace. Brian Hughes aboard Quaresome and Charlie Hammond started to ask their mounts for their effort.

Final flight. Hughes and Hammond jump it in unison and sprint towards the line, but which horse wanted it more?

“It’s Chaos Control just getting the upper hand on the run towards the line!” A brave Chaos got his head in front and surged clear in the final 50 yards to beat a gallant Quaresome.

The pair received a big welcome back into the enclosure and Chaos’ delighted owners gave him a well-earned pat. A jubilant Charlie Hammond said: “The race has gone to plan; they’ve gone a good gallop, and it’s really suited us”.

No rest for the wicked, it’s Stroll On By's turn next.

Seven went to post in a trappy seven-runner Handicap Chase with Rolo returning to action after a short break with Lilly Pinchin back onboard.
They were off! Lilly had Rolo settled in mid-division and he quickly began to jump with aplomb and take it all within his stride.

Again, just like the previous race, there was a clear leader, and the rest were seemingly happy to settle behind. Waiting patiently and racing past the finishing line for the first time, Lilly and Rolo were lobbing away in a share of third with the favourite, Great Samourai.

Callum Pritchard began to inject the pace and the front four began to establish a gap of five lengths to the trio in rear. They all negotiated the last on the far side well but Rolo seemed to be travelling better than a few of his rivals including Sam Twiston-Davies on his inner who took a daring route up the inside and almost caused carnage!

Swinging around the final bend for the final time and only three looked to be able to win, including long-time leader Stormin Crossgales.

Lilly gave Rolo a few reminders as they turned in just to refocus but he was quickly back on the bridle and took second place as they raced towards the penultimate flight which he met on a stride and continued to catch the leader.

The final fence loomed… Rolo jumped to the lead racing in what looked another thriller at Market Rasen. Under the determined Pinchin drive, Rolo kept on and ran all the way to the line.

Trainer Charlie Longsdon was ecstatic and noted that it was a “fantastic result” with the track and conditions clearly suiting him. He wasn’t the only one who was happy as Lilly Pinchin walked back into the winners’ enclosure with a grin on her face. She said: “He’s won really well today and galloped all the way to the line.”

Well, if that doesn’t make you want to become an owner with Old Gold Racing, I’m not sure what will... Well done to all connections!