AscotDitcheat, Somerset

Paul Nicholls at Ascot — Record, Stats & Runners

Last updated: 28 March 2026

Approx. 22%
Jumps Strike Rate at Ascot
Numerous Graded Victories
Total Jumps Winners Here
Chases (Graded & Handicaps)
Favourite Race Type
Winter Jumps Season
Key Time of Year
Around 4/1
Average Odds of Winners

Paul Nicholls is a name synonymous with National Hunt racing, and his excursions to the prestigious Ascot Racecourse are always keenly anticipated. While Ascot is a dual-purpose track, Nicholls's formidable reputation is built almost exclusively on the jumps code, where he frequently unleashes some of his Ditcheat giants. He targets the big meetings throughout the winter jumps season, regularly sending out well-schooled, top-class contenders in both graded races and valuable handicaps. Punters know that when Nicholls saddles a runner at Ascot, it's always worth a second look.

Paul Nicholls at Ascot — Analysis

Paul Nicholls typically reserves his trips to Ascot for the prime jumps fixtures, shunning the Flat season entirely. He has a particular affinity for the course's testing nature, which often suits his strong, staying chasers. He's been notably successful in races like the Grade 1 Ascot Chase and various valuable handicaps over fences.

You'll often see his runners contesting races over distances from 2m3f to 3 miles, utilising their stamina and jumping prowess on what can be a demanding track, especially when the ground is soft. Nicholls's horses are usually impeccably turned out and schooled, a crucial factor at Ascot where the fences can catch out the unwary. His runners are usually well-supported in the market, a testament to the stable's excellent strike rate at the Berkshire venue.

Back Paul Nicholls's runners in Grade 1 and valuable handicap chases at Ascot, especially when ridden by Harry Cobden and running on soft ground.

Key Runners at Ascot

Kauto StarWon the Aon Chase (now Ascot Chase) in 2007 and 2008 en route to his Gold Cup triumphs.
Master MindedA dual Queen Mother Champion Chase winner who also dominated a 2m chase at Ascot in 2011.
CyrnameFamously handed Altior his first defeat over jumps in a thrilling Christy 1965 Chase in 2019, also winning the Ascot Chase in 2020.
Pic D'OrhyMultiple graded race winner at Ascot, including the Grade 2 Pendil Novices' Chase and the Grade 1 Ascot Chase.

Preferred Jockeys at Ascot

Harry CobdenCurrent stable jockey and primary rider for Nicholls's big-race contenders at Ascot.
Sam Twiston-DaviesEnjoyed considerable success for Nicholls at Ascot during his time as stable jockey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paul Nicholls's best race at Ascot?

Paul Nicholls has enjoyed significant success in the Grade 1 Ascot Chase, winning it multiple times with stars like Kauto Star and Cyrname.

Does Paul Nicholls have runners on the Flat at Ascot?

No, Paul Nicholls exclusively trains National Hunt horses and does not have runners on the Flat at Ascot or any other course.

When is the best time to back Paul Nicholls runners at Ascot?

The best time to back Nicholls's runners at Ascot is during the core winter jumps season, particularly at the valuable graded meetings.