Nicky Henderson rejoices as National Hunt racing returns to Windsor after 20 years

In a significant development for National Hunt racing, Windsor, a scenic venue located on the banks of the Thames in England, has welcomed the return of jump racing after almost two decades. The last time the track hosted winter racing was during a quick single season in 2004-05, due to nearby Ascot undergoing redevelopment. Going back even further, Windsor last held a permanent place on the racing calendar back in 1998. This momentous occasion took place on December 15, 2024, marked by a seven-race card that signals the beginning of a new era for Windsor. Trainers and competitors have expressed excitement about the upcoming opportunities at the venue, particularly the anticipated Winter Million meeting that Ascot and Windsor will co-host in January, which is seen as a critical event leading up to the prestigious Cheltenham Festival. Nicky Henderson, a renowned six-time champion trainer whose yard is only 50 miles away, is particularly enthusiastic about this revival and has committed to entering his horses in the races. He aims to send three runners on the opening day, showcasing both his support for the event and the historic importance of Windsor in the jumping circuit. His fond memories of the track date back to the time when it regularly featured in his racing calendar, emphasizing good ground and successful horses that raced there, including Royal Athlete, the 1995 Grand National winner. The excitement in the racing community about Windsor's revival reflects a collective desire to reinvigorate jump racing here, as expressed by Charlie Moore of Arena Racing. The team's hopeful feedback indicates strong engagement from trainers eager for the Winter Million event. Overall, this return represents both a nostalgic journey for long-time participants and a promising future for jump racing in the region.