Not content with farming, TV presenter turned farmer, Jeremy Clarkson, is making his first foray into horse racing, creating a brand-new syndicate so racing fans can own a share of his new racehorse.
The public can buy a share in the horse, named The Hawkstonian, through a new partnership between Hawkstone Brewery and Old Gold Racing.
Old Gold Racing was established in 2019 to offer affordable shares in racehorses and has Grade 1 winner and Cheltenham Festival runner, Apple Away, in its stable, as well as record-breaker Darling Maltaix — and now Jeremy's new steed.
The Hawkstonian — affectionately referred to by Jeremy as 'Pet' — is a 16.3 hand thoroughbred grey gelding being homed and trained by Cotswolds-based Ben Pauling, just a stone's throw from the Diddly Squat farm. He's hoping The Hawkstonian will make his racing debut in a National Hunt race in late April 2024.
Jeremy said: 'I said to the Hawkstone team that we should get into racing but clearly they got motor racing and horse racing confused! That said, Ben Pauling is a stone’s throw from Diddly Squat Farm and the Hawkstone Brewery, so I know where my hay is going.
'Furthermore, the Pauling family originally farmed our land and taught Kaleb all he knows about farming.'
Ben said: 'There is no two ways about it, I think this lad is really very smart... he's a horse I think an awful lot of.
'I look forward to educating Jeremy and his Hawkstone members about all things horse racing and I hope The Hawkstonian is as fast as the plug-in hybrid Ferrari SF90 XX Stradale!'
Old Gold Racing's chief executive, Ed Seyfried, added: 'We are honoured to be powering the inaugural Hawkstone Racing syndicate. Jeremy has helped transform views of agriculture with his hit television show and we are looking forward to welcoming him on the racing scene this coming season.
'Most petrolheads start by tinkering with lawnmowers; well, this lawnmower can reach speeds of 35mph over three miles whilst jumping hedges; beat that Flymo!'
As well as a share in the horse and any prize money he wins, Hawkstone Racing is also giving shareholders a variety of benefits, including the chance to win owners' badges when he runs; access to racing deals and benefits; an invite to the Hawkstone Brewery to enjoy a pint with Pet; and a six-pack of Hawkstone lager, as a welcome gift.
There are 3,250 shares up for grabs at £60 each for a 14-month term. Members of Hawkstone's club get early access from Monday 22 April 2024, before the remaining shares go on sale to the public on Thursday 25 April 2024.
