In an extraordinary display of talent, Astronomic View has captured the attention of Sue Gardner's training team, prompting the family to embark on a lengthy journey from Devon to Haydock this Saturday in pursuit of an ITV victory. This progressive seven-year-old, owned by trainer Sue Gardner's husband Des and ridden by their daughter Lucy, has become a cherished member of the family. Bred at Woodhayes Stud, where the Alers-Hankey family has been friends with the Gardners for over 30 years, Astronomic View has shown outstanding consistency with five consecutive top-three finishes. The horse's recent awe-inspiring 21-length triumph at Warwick has positioned it as the 7-2 favourite for the Challenger Stayers Hurdle Series Final Handicap Hurdle, one of the seven races scheduled to be broadcast on national television this weekend.
Lucy Gardner, an accomplished jockey with 86 victories under her belt, expressed confidence in Astronomic View's ability to excel over longer distances. She praised the horse's temperament, describing it as a delightful and amiable creature. Lucy Gardner believes that the horse's performance improves with increased distance, making her hopeful for a successful race. While she admits to not extensively researching the upcoming competition, Lucy Gardner emphasised that Astronomic View stands a chance if the conditions favour the horse.
The Gardners, who reside near Exeter, experienced a momentous occasion in December 2015 when Coeur Blimey triumphed in Ascot's Listed bumper. However, securing the £50,000 prize this weekend would mark one of their most significant victories since Sue Gardner obtained her licence in 2000. The family shares the responsibilities of their equestrian business, with Lucy Gardner managing declarations and even booking herself as the jockey—a unique arrangement.
Lucy Gardner declared her unwavering commitment to riding Astronomic View and confirmed that the decision to participate in the race is contingent on weather conditions. Undeterred by the workload and challenges, the family stands united in their pursuit of success. For the Gardners, moments like Saturday's race epitomise the joy they derive from their shared passion for horse racing. The victory would also hold special significance for their close family friends, the Alers-Hankeys, who bred Astronomic View—a horse that has never strayed far from its place of origin on the farm.