AscotBourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire

Ben Pauling at Ascot — Record, Stats & Runners

Last updated: 28 March 2026

Multiple
Total Winners at Ascot (NH)
Handicap Hurdles/Chases
Key Race Type
Autumn/Winter
Best Season for Wins
Respectable
Strike Rate at Course
Significant
Notable Prize Money Earned

Ben Pauling, a rising force in the National Hunt training ranks, is a trainer whose runners at Ascot always warrant respect. While he predominantly operates from his Gloucestershire base, Ascot is a track where he’s enjoyed some notable successes over the years. His entries are almost exclusively over hurdles and fences, reflecting the course's mixed card status but Pauling's specialisation in jumps. He has demonstrated a knack for preparing horses to peak for Ascot's demanding conditions, particularly in competitive handicaps and promising novice events. Punters should always take note when a Pauling runner enters the Ascot parade ring.

Ben Pauling at Ascot — Analysis

Ben Pauling's approach to Ascot is typically focused on the National Hunt programme, which dominates the course outside of the summer Flat season. Ascot is a demanding track for jumpers, featuring an uphill finish that tests stamina and resolution. Pauling often targets horses that thrive on such stiff tests, indicating that his runners are usually well-conditioned and robust. He's had particular success in competitive handicap hurdles and chases, often with horses that have shown prior form on undulating tracks or have a strong staying pedigree.

His stable runners are often seen at Ascot's high-profile winter meetings, including the December fixture, where they compete for valuable prize money. Pauling is adept at campaigning promising novice hurdlers and chasers here, using Ascot as a stepping stone for future graded assignments. When considering a Pauling runner at Ascot, pay close attention to the horse's stamina credentials and their performance on similar tracks.

Focus on Ben Pauling's well-handicapped National Hunt runners at Ascot, particularly those stepping up in trip or showing progressive form on similar demanding tracks.

Key Runners at Ascot

Wilde About OscarWon a valuable handicap hurdle at Ascot in November 2020, demonstrating class and resilience.
Shakem Up'arryScored a well-deserved victory in a competitive handicap chase at Ascot in December 2021, a testament to his toughness.
Fine CastingLanded a handicap hurdle here in November 2022, confirming Pauling's ability to ready a horse for the big occasion.
TellherthewhistleImpressed when winning a mares' handicap hurdle at Ascot in November 2023, enhancing her improving profile.

Preferred Jockeys at Ascot

Kielan WoodsCurrent stable jockey, frequently partners Pauling's Ascot runners.
Luca MorganFormer stable jockey who enjoyed good success aboard Pauling-trained horses at the course.
Daryl JacobRegularly engaged by the stable for rides on Pauling's more prominent runners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ben Pauling train Flat horses at Ascot?

No, Ben Pauling is exclusively a National Hunt trainer, so his runners at Ascot will always be over hurdles or fences.

What type of races does Ben Pauling target at Ascot?

He primarily targets competitive handicap hurdles and chases, as well as novice races for his promising young jumpers.

When does Ben Pauling typically have runners at Ascot?

Ben Pauling has runners throughout the National Hunt season at Ascot, with a particular focus on the valuable meetings in the autumn and winter months.