Wincanton initiates morning inspection for efficient operations

Officials Delighted as Henrietta Knight Makes a Comeback

The anticipation is palpable at Wincanton Racecourse as legendary trainer Henrietta Knight prepares to make her long-awaited return. Best known for training Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Best Mate, in the early 2000s, Knight took a break from the racing scene in 2012.

After a twelve-year hiatus, she surprised the industry by announcing her comeback last year. With right-hand man Brendan Powell by her side, Knight plans to saddle two runners on the Wincanton card – marking the beginning of yet another illustrious chapter.

A Familiar Terrain for Henrietta Knight

Knight’s presence at Wincanton holds special significance. During her previous stint as a trainer, she achieved an impressive record of 42 winners out of 262 runners at this track alone. Edredon Bleu, her Champion Chase and King George hero, triumphed four out of five times he graced Somerset’s course.

“It’s lovely and we will look forward to showing Henrietta we are just how she would remember us in the past and we’re a new team here now so it will be good to try to carry on that trust,” said Daniel Cooper, clerk of the course.

‍ “It will be great to have Henrietta and Brendan’s presence here – they are two great figures in racing.” , added Cooper. ‍ “My god it’s close but things are 95 per cent at Wincanton,” ‍ Cooper stated, expressing optimism for a successful race day. However, before Knight can set foot in the saddling boxes to prepare her runners for action, an early morning inspection must take place.

Anxiety Looms Over Friday Morning Inspection

The fate of the race meeting hangs in the balance as Wincanton Racecourse awaits an 8.30am inspection on Friday morning. Concerns arise due to frost affecting sections of the course.

‍ “At the moment (Thursday afternoon) I would be calling this 95 per cent raceable and there are three areas that are frozen in places,” explained Cooper. He further added,

“I’m just hoping they improve, and if the forecast temperatures are to be believed, they will improve and we will be OK.”

‍ “We want to see a bit of daylight and see what it looks like,” said Cooper regarding tomorrow’s inspection. If necessary, they will postpone it accordingly based on potential improvements.

Hopes High for Racing Enthusiasts

Everyone involved is eager for racing to proceed as planned; however, safety remains paramount.
We keep our fingers crossed that conditions will allow Henrietta Knight’s return at Wincanton Racecourse – an event eagerly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike.