Jeremy Clarkson and a familiar face from Clarkson’s Farm are gearing up for an unexpected clash — this time not on the fields of Diddly Squat, but on the racetrack. The former Top Gear presenter, who has reinvented himself as an unlikely farming star on Prime Video, is set to see one of his prized racehorses compete head-to-head, in spirit at least, with a horse connected to one of his own farmhands.
Since launching in 2021, Clarkson’s Farm has become one of Amazon Prime Video’s biggest success stories, offering viewers an unfiltered look at Clarkson’s struggles and triumphs as he attempts to navigate life as a real farmer in rural Oxfordshire. With the fourth season recently concluded and a fifth already in production for next year, fans don’t have long to wait for their next dose of Diddly Squat drama — and this week brings a bonus showdown.
Clarkson’s racehorse, The Hawkstonian, trained by renowned handler Ben Pauling, is set to run at Sedgefield Racecourse on Thursday. The outing marks the horse’s first appearance over hurdles as he lines up for the 1.55pm Novices’ Hurdle, a significant moment in what Pauling describes as an “exciting season ahead.” According to the trainer, The Hawkstonian has been showing strong potential at home, suggesting Clarkson may have another form of “horsepower” to boast about.
But he won’t be the only Clarkson’s Farm figure with eyes on a winner that afternoon. Just 35 minutes later, at 2.30pm, Gerald Cooper — the beloved, soft-spoken farmhand who has become a fan favourite — will also have a vested interest in the racecard. His syndicate’s horse, Whatyouwaitingfor, trained by Charlie Longsdon, is entered in the Novices’ Handicap Chase.
Gerald isn’t just participating for sport — he’s using his involvement to shine a light on an important cause. Through Gerald’s Charity Syndicate, he has been raising awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer UK, with an impressive £28,500 already raised. His efforts have been widely praised by viewers and racing supporters alike.
Ed Seyfried, Chief Executive of Old Gold Racing, which oversees both syndicates, celebrated the coincidence of the back-to-back races. “We couldn’t have scripted it better!” he said. “Two Clarkson’s Farm legends, two great syndicates, and two races back-to-back — it’s a fantastic showcase for syndicate racehorse ownership through Old Gold Racing.
“Whether you’re Team Clarkson or Team Gerald, everyone’s a winner when it comes to supporting the sport and great causes. We can’t wait to see which team holds the bragging rights on Thursday!”
For fans of Clarkson’s Farm, the double appearance offers a fun mid-season treat — a chance to watch Clarkson and Gerald compete in a totally different arena, while supporting both the racing community and a meaningful charitable mission.
