Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats and get ready to be entertained, because Ascot was the place to be on Friday! The star of the show was none other than Djelo, who completed a remarkable hat-trick of chase victories in the Grade Two Howden Noel Novices' Chase. Trained by the incredible Venetia Williams and ridden by the talented Charlie Deutsch, Djelo made all the running and left no room for doubt as he triumphed by a magnificent six lengths from Kandoo Kid.
Deutsch, with a twinkle in his eye, shared his exhilarating experience with Sky Sports Racing, saying, 'I really enjoyed it! He traveled like a dream and his jumping was nothing short of electric, except for a little hiccup at the second-last. But Djelo picked himself up and jumped the last with finesse. He's a top-class chaser in the making, with all the qualities you desire in a champion.'
The excitement didn't stop there, folks. In the Thames Materials Open National Hunt Flat Race, Let It Rain, trained by the dynamic duo Dan and Harry Skelton, proved to be an absolute force to be reckoned with. This four-year-old daughter of Kayf Tara, exhibiting sheer dominance, took control in the straight and eased home three-and-a-quarter lengths ahead of the competition, with the valiant Brechin Castle chasing her shadow.
Harry Skelton, beaming with pride, couldn't contain his admiration for Let It Rain, proclaiming, 'She shows you everything you want to see! She's like a good woman, and everyone needs one of those in their life! I must give credit to my wife Bridget, who has put in a lot of work with her because she always knew there was something special about this filly. She's still a long way from her full potential, but mark my words, she's going places!'
And let's not forget the thrilling performance of Persian Time under the expert guidance of Nico de Boinville in the Howden Novices' Limited Handicap Chase. Nicky Henderson's charge, although appearing slightly fortunate after a fall from Authorised Speed, emerged as the victorious favorite, leaving Homme Public to claim the runner-up spot.
The day was packed with exhilarating moments, but the finish of the WB Wealth Handicap Hurdle took the cake. Titan Discovery and Toonagh Warrior battled it out in a fierce competition, with Titan Discovery, trained by Robbie Llewellyn, emerging as the victor by a mere head. The crowd was on its feet, unable to contain their excitement as the thrilling spectacle reached its climax.
The Paul Nicholls-trained Welcome To Cartries demonstrated its resilience and determination in the Howden Maiden Hurdle. At first looking defeated, the courageous horse, ridden by the skilled Harry Cobden, unleashed its hidden power, steadily progressing before surging ahead in the final moments, leaving Ideal Des Bordes trailing in its wake.
Last but not least, the opening Howden Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle showcased the remarkable talent of Cameron Iles, who guided Immortal Fame, trained by Tom Lacey, to a resounding victory. With three successive wins under his belt, Iles triumphed for the first time at prestigious Ascot, etching his name into the history books.
Ascot on Friday was a day filled with dazzling performances, breathtaking moments, and the undeniable electricity of top-class racing. It left all who witnessed it buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what's to come. So hold onto your hats, folks, because the thrills and spills of the racing world never cease to amaze us. Until next time, enjoy the ride!
