Nicky Henderson expressed high praise for Windsor Racecourse as jump racing made its long-awaited return to the Berkshire venue after nearly two decades. Despite the disappointment of two odds-on favourites being beaten, Henderson was thrilled to see National Hunt racing reinstated at Windsor, calling the track “brilliant.”
Reflecting on Windsor’s legacy, Henderson shared personal memories, recalling a winner he rode there and his first double as a trainer in 1978. The Lambourn trainer noted improvements to the course, including a more conventional layout replacing the old figure-of-eight track, ensuring safety and modern standards.
The decision to restore jump racing came after Arena Racing Company (ARC), which owns Windsor, proposed it as part of the Winter Million meeting. Previously held at Lingfield, the event now forms part of the Berkshire Winter Million, with Ascot’s Clarence House meeting sandwiched between two days of racing in January.
Mark Spincer, ARC’s operations director, acknowledged the effort and investment behind the revival, noting that approximately £500,000 was spent on upgrades benefiting both Flat and jump racing. Despite logistical challenges, including cancelled boat transport, nearly 5,000 racegoers attended the event.
Trainer Jamie Snowden, who tested the course in pre-race gallops, praised the new layout, while champion jockey Harry Cobden, who won the opening race, described the track as "tight but fair."
The return of jump racing to Windsor marks a significant milestone for the venue, signalling a promising future for the sport in the region.