Jeremy Clarkson vs Gerald Cooper: The Surprising Rivalry Fans Never Saw Coming
Jeremy Clarkson Faces Off with Gerald Cooper in Real-Life Racecourse Showdown
The rivalry is heating up beyond the farmyard! Clarkson’s Farm co-stars Jeremy Clarkson and Gerald Cooper are set to clash—not over crops or tractors this time, but on the racetrack. The two fan favourites will go head-to-head as their racehorses compete on the same card at Sedgefield Racecourse this Thursday, November 6.
In a twist fit for television, both men have joined the Old Gold Racing syndicate—though fate has now pitted their horses against each other in back-to-back contests. Clarkson’s runner, The Hawkstonian, will make its debut over hurdles in the Novices’ Hurdle at 1:55 p.m., while just 35 minutes later, Gerald’s horse Whatyouwaitingfor will charge into the Novices’ Handicap Chase at 2:30 p.m..
While it’s all friendly competition, there’s no doubt that bragging rights are firmly on the line.
A Battle of Farmyard Titans
Jeremy Clarkson, known for turning his farming misadventures into television gold, bought The Hawkstonian at the Goffs Arkle Sale in 2023 for £39,000. The horse takes its name from Clarkson’s popular Diddly Squat beer, The Hawkstone, a nod to his ever-growing Cotswolds empire. The grey gelding is trained by Ben Pauling, whose stable lies not far from Clarkson’s iconic Diddly Squat Farm—making this a true Cotswold collaboration.
For Gerald Cooper, the race is about more than sport. The much-loved farmhand, whose thick accent and unfiltered humor have made him a breakout star, is using his horse to make a difference. Whatyouwaitingfor, trained by Charlie Longsdon, is part of Gerald’s Charity Syndicate, created to raise money and awareness for Prostate Cancer UK. The initiative has already gathered £28,500, proving that Gerald’s big heart is as famous as his on-screen presence.
The Old Gold Racing Connection
The two horses represent different syndicates under Old Gold Racing, a company that allows fans to experience the thrill of racehorse ownership at an affordable price.
Ed Seyfried, Old Gold Racing’s CEO, couldn’t be happier about the showdown.
“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 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.”
The Stakes and the Spirit
Clarkson’s The Hawkstonian will be tackling hurdles for the first time—a key test in its development and a potential preview of greater things to come. For the outspoken presenter, who’s never shy of a bit of competition, success at Sedgefield would surely make for excellent pub talk back at Diddly Squat.
Meanwhile, Gerald’s supporters are already rallying behind him. His campaign for men’s health awareness has struck a chord with fans across the country, many of whom will be cheering him on trackside or online. Whether or not Whatyouwaitingfor claims victory, Gerald’s cause is already a winner.
Rivals, But Still Mates
Despite the friendly rivalry, there’s a deep bond between the two. Viewers of Clarkson’s Farm have seen Clarkson’s admiration for Gerald’s hard graft and encyclopedic farming knowledge. While Clarkson brings the chaos and the quips, Gerald provides the steady, no-nonsense expertise that keeps Diddly Squat running.
That respect carries through to the racetrack. The pair may be competing for glory on Thursday, but both are ultimately flying the same flag—for community, charity, and a shared love of British country life.
As the horses thunder down the track and fans pick their sides—Team Clarkson or Team Gerald—one thing’s certain: this is no ordinary race day. It’s a celebration of friendship, fun, and a little bit of good-natured rivalry, proving that the spirit of Clarkson’s Farm is alive and kicking far beyond the Cotswolds.
