Ascot Racecourse is delighted to announce that this year's Grade One feature on Saturday, December 17, will be run as the Lough Derg Long Walk Hurdle to commemorate the recent retirement of the Ascot regular.
Lough Derg ran 15 times at Ascot, and won on three occasions, most notably in the 2007 Long Walk Hurdle itself.
Lough Derg will lead the parade before this year's renewal of the Long Walk Hurdle a week on Saturday and his owner, William Frewen, will be present to select the best turned-out horse award before the race and to present the trophy after.
Frewen, said: “There can be little doubt that Lough Derg loved Ascot and that, judging by the receptions he received even in defeat, Ascot's racegoers loved him.
“While there were many wonderful moments, the highlight has to be the 2007 Long Walk Hurdle where a plan to test the stamina of outstanding horses such as Black Jack Ketchum, Kasbah Bliss and the dual Champion Hurdle winner Hardy Eustace was perfectly executed as Lough Derg was never really challenged and came home clear by nine lengths.
“It was brilliant planning by David Pipe and a great tactical ride by Tom Scudamore on a horse at his peak. For the owner, it produced a mixture of sheer astonishment and utter joy. I am so pleased that I will be able to be at Ascot with Lough Derg once more on Saturday week.”
Nick Smith, Ascot's Head of Communications, added: “We're delighted that Lough Derg will be here so that the Ascot crowd can see one of their favourites and say thank you for the memories.
“Win or lose, it was always a thrilling spectacle watching him try to put his rivals to the sword from flagfall - there is something about front-runners that everyone loves.
Tickets start from £17. Generous Group discounts apply and kids under 18 go FREE. To book, call 0870 727 1234 or visit http://www.ascot.co.uk/
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