Jeremy Clarkson Celebrates First Racing Victory as Owner at Ffos Las
In a thrilling moment away from television screens, Jeremy Clarkson enjoyed a rare and significant win on Friday, January 30, 2026. His racehorse, The Hawkstonian, secured its first career victory in the 13:50 Novices' Hurdle at Ffos Las Racecourse in Wales. The grey gelding, ridden by Cheltenham Festival-winning jockey Ben Jones and trained by Ben Pauling, delivered a performance that had fans on the edge of their seats.
A Close Finish and Emotional Triumph
The race culminated in a nail-biting close finish, with The Hawkstonian demonstrating strong pace and remarkable composure under pressure. Ben Jones expertly guided the horse over the final hurdle, pushing it clear right at the line to clinch the win. This victory marked a pivotal moment for Clarkson, who had endured a challenging first season as a racing owner, making the triumph all the more sweet.
Clarkson's Joyful Reaction and Social Media Banter
Following the race, Clarkson took to X to express his elation. He posted, "Hawkstonians. I'm receiving word that our horse triumphed today at the Blue Ditch course in Wales. I'm going to celebrate with a beer." When a fan humorously questioned how this fit with Dry January, Clarkson quipped back, "Not when you have a brewery and a pub it isn't." This playful exchange highlighted his characteristic wit and connection to his Hawkstone brewery, after which the horse is named.
Background and Trainer's Insights
The win felt particularly fitting for Clarkson, known for his humorous takes on farming life at Diddly Squat Farm. Trainer Ben Pauling had previously discussed the early challenges in 2025, noting that Clarkson was accustomed to "horsepower of a different kind" and that racehorse ownership tested his patience. Pauling believed hurdling was the right path for The Hawkstonian and predicted improvement over time, a forecast that proved accurate in early 2026 as the horse appeared sharper and more confident.
Pauling once joked, using a car analogy Clarkson would appreciate, that the horse might be closer to a Ferrari than a Morris Minor, underscoring its potential.
Celebrations and Syndicate Involvement
The victory sparked immediate plans for celebration. Old Gold Racing, the syndicate that offered shares in the horse at £60 for 14 months, praised the "speed and power" of the ride on Instagram. They invited members to celebrate at The Farmer's Dog pub, owned by Clarkson near the Cotswolds. The Hawkstonian's own Instagram account captured the mood perfectly with the post: "Buy that horse a beer."
For Jeremy Clarkson, this first win as an owner arrived with perfect timing, rewarding months of waiting and learning in the sport. It not only showcased The Hawkstonian's growing prowess but also solidified Clarkson's foray into horse racing, blending his passions for entertainment, brewing, and now, equine success.
