Viscountess Nelson

Viscountess Nelson is an Old Gold Racing syndicate with a difference: owners will own a share alongside Francesca Cumani as she becomes a National Hunt racehorse owner for the very first time!

For Francesca, this isn’t a leap into the complete unknown. She has long been recognised as a leading authority on the flat, but her involvement with Old Gold Racing has brought her closer to the world of jumps. And she’s already felt it first-hand — schooling over the Grand National practice fences in Lambourn with Richard Johnson, where the thrill of National Hunt racing truly bit.

Now she takes the next step: her first horse as an owner in jumps racing. And what better way to mark that milestone than by partnering with one of the sport’s all-time greats, Nicky Henderson?

Owners can expect exclusive content featuring Nicky and Francesca, as well as the opportunity to go racing with Francesca when Viscountess Nelson runs!

Please note: this is not a partner syndicate - Viscountess Nelson will run in Old Gold Racing silks throughout the coming seasons.

Viscountess Nelson is an impressive mare in training with Nicky Henderson, who has quickly progressed under Rules and looks a promising prospect going forward.

She was purchased for £40,000 at the Goffs UK Spring Sale by Jerry McGrath and Nicky Henderson, having caught the eye with a winning point-to-point debut at Ballysteen. Travelling smoothly throughout, she jumped fluently and asserted with confidence from two out to score comfortably, a performance that has worked out well since.

A strong, athletic mare with a likeable attitude, she settled in well at Seven Barrows and shaped with promise on her racecourse debut under Rules, finishing fourth in a bumper at Huntingdon, suggesting she would benefit from a step up in trip.

She made a highly encouraging start over hurdles at Plumpton, finishing second on debut in that sphere. Despite showing signs of greenness, she jumped well, travelled strongly, and displayed a willing attitude when asked for her effort, only being outfinished late on by a more experienced rival.

She built on that promise in no uncertain terms on her next start at Perth, where she broke her maiden over hurdles in impressive fashion. Showing improved composure, she travelled powerfully into the race before quickening clear from the second last to win decisively. It was a performance that highlighted both her natural ability and her progression with experience. You can watch her Perth victory here.

Nicky has been delighted with Viscountess Nelson reporting, “She has got a lovely temperament - very willing, and she moves nicely” He finished by saying, “She's got a good pedigree, and I am looking forward to what is ahead because I think we are going to have a lot of fun!”

Her sire, Mount Nelson, has produced high-class performers on both the Flat and over jumps, including Stayers’ Hurdle winner Penhill, while her dam, Taws, was a consistent and durable mare who won seven races and placed at Listed level.

Viscountess Nelson is a mare who is improving with each run. She has shown a willing attitude, sound jumping, and the ability to quicken when it matters. With further experience, a step up in trip likely to suit, and a preference for better ground, she looks well placed to continue progressing and should have plenty more to offer in the months ahead.

Nicky Henderson LVO OBE, is based at Seven Barrows near Lambourn, Berkshire. Nicky hit 3000 career wins in July 2018 and has been crowned Champion Trainer six-times during the course of his career. He has a formidable Cheltenham Festival record, having sent out over 70 winners there, nine of which have come from the Champion Hurdle.

Nicky was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2020 New Year Honours for services to horse racing. Nicky has trained some spectacular Jumpers during his time, dominating the two-mile chasing scene with Sprinter Sacre and Altior. His yard is currently home to some of the best horses in the National Hunt Sphere, such as Constitution Hill and Jonbon.