Last Updated on January 26, 2026
Jeremy Clarkson is no stranger to horsepower. But his latest venture swaps turbo engines for turf and hooves, as the TV presenter has teamed up with Old Gold Racing and Hawkstone Brewery to launch a public racing syndicate horse: The Hawkstonian.
It’s a move that combines Clarkson’s love of spectacle, his brewing business, and a rather charming grey gelding – all wrapped up in an affordable syndicate that’s given thousands of people a taste of racehorse ownership.
A Syndicate with Star Appeal
The Hawkstonian isn’t just any horse. Bought for €45,000 at the Goffs Arkle Sale in 2023, the striking grey gelding is trained by Ben Pauling in the Cotswolds — not far from Clarkson’s now-famous Diddly Squat Farm. The horse takes his name from Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager brand and forms part of a clever partnership between Old Gold Racing and Hawkstone Brewery.
The result? A syndicate that has attracted both racing fans and fans of Clarkson’s trademark wit. With over 3,000 shares offered at £60 each, plus a private group for Hawkstone Club members, The Hawkstonian quickly became one of the most talked-about syndicate horses in the UK.
Clarkson’s Influence
Jeremy Clarkson himself has been front and centre of the launch. Promotional videos feature him introducing the horse as his “pet”, adding the kind of dry humour that’s made him a household name. “I know a bit about horsepower,” he quips, “and this one doesn’t need an oil change.”
But behind the jokes is a serious attempt to make racehorse ownership accessible. The syndicate offers regular updates, stable visits, prize money sharing, and even invites to Hawkstone events. There’s also the occasional bonus, like a six-pack of lager thrown in for good measure — a uniquely Clarkson touch.
Who Is The Hawkstonian?
So what kind of horse is The Hawkstonian? He’s a National Hunt gelding by Jukebox Jury, a sire known for producing staying types that do well over jumps. Still only a youngster, The Hawkstonian has already caught the eye with his striking grey coat and athletic frame.
Ben Pauling, whose yard has sent out winners at Cheltenham and beyond, called the horse “a joy to train.” He noted the gelding’s professionalism at home and his promising temperament. The long-term plan is to run him over hurdles, and possibly fences down the line, but like many young jumpers, his racing education began in bumpers (National Hunt flat races).
A Memorable Debut
The Hawkstonian made his racecourse debut on 1 November 2024 in the 4:22 at Uttoxeter, running in the Quinnbet Open National Hunt Flat Race (Category 1 Elimination). It was a GBB (Great British Bonus) eligible bumper — the kind of race used to educate young National Hunt horses before they go hurdling.
The grey gelding showed early promise, travelling well and racing prominently for much of the contest. He eventually finished midfield, gaining valuable experience in what was a competitive field.
Ben Pauling has been open about his hopes for The Hawkstonian, describing him as “closer to a Ferrari than a Morris Minor.” – a line that’ll no doubt appeal to fans of Top Gear and The Grand Tour.
Old Gold Racing’s Model
While Clarkson’s fame has undoubtedly drawn attention to this syndicate, the real engine behind it is Old Gold Racing — a company that’s been quietly revolutionising affordable racehorse ownership.
Founded to make syndicate membership more accessible, Old Gold Racing offers low-cost shares in horses trained by top UK trainers. Owners receive regular videos, written updates, and race day opportunities, plus prize money proportional to their shareholding.
With The Hawkstonian, Old Gold Racing has created something that stands out even among its own strong syndicate offering — combining sport, celebrity, and a pint of beer in a way only Jeremy Clarkson could pull off.
What’s Next?
The plan for The Hawkstonian is to move into hurdle races as the 2025–26 jumps season unfolds. He could be seen at Ascot, Newbury, or Cheltenham in novice hurdles — and given his size and breeding, fences may eventually be on the cards.
Syndicate members can expect continued updates and the chance to be part of race days, plus any glory (or lager-fuelled celebrations) that come their way.
As for Clarkson? Whether The Hawkstonian wins a maiden hurdle or lines up for the Cheltenham Festival in years to come, it’s clear he’s enjoying the ride.
Final Thoughts
Jeremy Clarkson’s entry into the racing world might have started with a joke and a beer label — but it’s grown into something much more substantial. The Hawkstonian isn’t just a clever marketing ploy; he’s a well-bred young jumper with a respected trainer, a huge group of enthusiastic owners, and one of Britain’s most recognisable public figures cheering him on.
For those curious about racing syndicates, this one offers an entertaining but genuine look at the fun and thrill of ownership.
