FOLLOWCATO MAKES IT FOUR ON THE BOUNCE

by Roxie King

Followcato's extraordinary rise to fame came in December 2025 at Ludlow where he won in superb style followed by two more decisive victories at Exeter and Hereford. Leicester was to follow.

Could we even dream of a fourth victory in a row? With the full support of owners, Ben Pauling, and Frances, our fourth victory was in our sights.

Followcato entered the parade ring, calm and collected, ears pricked, head held high, beautifully turned out. he looked like a true showman.

Could he pull off his fourth victory?

Should we have ever doubted, his jumping was precise under Kielan Woods, he led from the start, crossing the finishing post in magnificent style, his fourth win on the bounce, celebrations followed, champagne flowed, as did the tears.

My journey started with Highclere back in 2024. Ron had been out shooting with a chum who suggested if you are looking for a racehorse the man to approach would be Harry at Highclere, he will sort you out.

Harry suggested a share in Followcato, their latest acquisition, a national hunt horse with promise trained by Ben Pauling.

Oh boy, Followcato has certainly not disappointed.

We both visited him at Ben’s on a Highclere stable visit. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend Cato's first race at Huntington, but Ron was there to cheer him on.

Sadly, Ron could not enjoy the spoils of the racing game, he was diagnosed with a terminal cancer in June 2024 which limited us.

Over the period of Ron's illness, we continue to buy horses but unfortunately, he was unable to see Followcato’s next season.

Ron left us in April 2025.

Ron’s words still ring in my ears “darling I want you to go out and have fun in the future” and that is exactly what Highclere has given me.

My first win came with Chapter at Salisbury followed on by spectacular debut run from Knowledge at Southwell.

Six wins in nine months, Ron would have been bursting with pride and excitement.

Thank you to the Highclere family, and to all the friends I have gained, you have made it possible for me to attend races as a solo and feel confident I will be looked after at all events by your wonderful team. My journey has taken me well beyond my dreams, and the wall at home is filling fast with my winner’s gallery.