WWE

Charlie Hammond Celebrates Milestone Victory at Chepstow Racecourse

December, 31, 2024-02:12

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin | Visits: 38084 | :2821

---

Charlie Hammond Celebrates Milestone Victory at Chepstow Racecourse
Drama is inherently linked to the Coral Welsh Grand National, and this year was no exception, despite the fact that many spectators were unable to witness the unfolding events.

The lengthy race culminated in a remarkable victory for Mel Rowley, a trainer operating a modest stable in Shropshire. She had diligently prepared Val Dancer for this competition, and the 7/1 contender secured the £85,425 top prize, narrowly defeating the rapidly approaching Jubilee Express.

However, dense fog enveloped Chepstow, rendering visibility from the stands and on television nearly impossible. It was only in the final 100 yards that Val Dancer emerged from the mist, managing to extend his lead and fend off Jubilee Express, who had gained significant momentum. "I am torn between laughter and tears, as this is the essence of dreams," Rowley remarked. "This horse has truly matured this year. We took our time with him because he was quite inexperienced, but he has gained his confidence."

"Following his previous performance, we decided to come here, and our strategy has proven successful! Being from a small yard in quiet Shropshire, achieving this is incredibly special."

The victory by a length and a half also marked a significant milestone in Charlie Hammond's riding career, providing a much-needed boost after he narrowly missed winning the Formby Novices Hurdle the day before on Aintree’s prestigious Boxing Day card. Hammond expressed, "I thought we were going to lose after the last jump, but he fought back admirably. This is a monumental day for me. Yesterday was a near miss when I finished second in the Grade One at Aintree, but achieving this on such a wonderful horse is what days like this are all about."

The race card at Chepstow was exceptional, and it was unfortunate that the weather conditions posed such challenges; both the jockeys and the clerk of the course conducted regular inspections to ensure the safety of both horses and riders.

It would have been exhilarating to witness the performance of Nietzsche Has in the Coral Finale Hurdle, who traveled from France and dominated the Grade Two event for young horses. However, he will not be making a bid for Cheltenham.