Horse Racing

Jungle Jim on the right in the photo

Jungle Jim on the right in the photo carrying the orange/white/black colours of Salford Van Hire… being led back in from the course after the race

Horse Racing

Horses I Led Up – NH Races 1988/89

Horses I Led Up at the Races
1988/1989 National Hunt Season

3/9/1988

Black Prince Conditional Jockeys Selling Handicap Hurdle

Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Grundy’s Own
Result
Finished 1st / 5 run

28/4/1989

Monkey Puzzle Challenge Trophy Selling Handicap Hurdle

Sedgefield Racecourse
Pallavacina
Result
Finished 2nd / 14 run

12/5/1989

Bishopton Novices Handicap Hurdle

Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Lucy Lastic
Result
Finished 8th / 17 run

Horse Racing

Horses I Led Up – Flat Races 1988

Horses I Led Up at the Races
1988 Flat Racing Season

26/4/1988

Ilchester Handicap

Bath Racecourse
Shanghai Bowler
Finished 12th / 17 ran

Horse Racing

Richard Bevan Amateur Jockey Race Rides 1993/94 National Hunt Racing Season

Richard Bevan National Hunt Race Rides 1993/94
2 rides… Average Starting Price Odds 11 to 1
Completed 2 = 100%
0 rides in the first 4 places = 0%
0x 1st 0% winners
0x 2nd 0% placed second
0x 3rd 0% placed third
0x 4th 0% placed fourth
fell 0 = 0% / ur 0 = 0% / bd 0 = 0% / co 0 = 0% / ro 0 = 0% / pu 0 = 0%

1993/1994 National Hunt Season

18/2/1994

Sandown Open National Hunt Flat

Sandown Park Racecourse
I rode Master Hope in his first ever race
Result
Finished 7th / 22 ran

Memories of Master Hope at Jackdaws Castle

Introduction to Master Hope

Master Hope was a horse who captured my heart during the time I spent at David Nicholson’s Jackdaws Castle Racing Stable. His unique character left a lasting impression, and the fond memories I have of him are etched in my mind. Despite facing numerous challenges, he brought immense joy to my experience at the stable.

Experiences Riding Master Hope

Throughout my time with Master Hope, I had the opportunity to ride him in two bumper races. One highlight was at Sandown Park Racecourse, where we finished 7th behind the talented Go Ballistic. Another memorable moment was at Doncaster Racecourse, where we placed 8th. These experiences were deeply rewarding, demonstrating his determination and spirit to overcome difficulties. When I applied for the Stable Lads position at Jackdaws Castle, “The Duke” emphasized that my main responsibility would not be racing, “Richard you aren’t coming here to ride in f?cking races!” but thanks to Master Hope, I was able to challenge this notion and prove myself on the racecourse.

The Heart of Jackdaws Castle

Master Hope faced obstacles throughout his life, including breathing issues and a serious injury from a fractured cannon bone sustained during training. Nevertheless, he was cherished by many, belonging to the same owners who had previous connections with successful horses like Waterloo Boy and Another Coral. Although Master Hope never won a race and his journey ended tragically, the time I spent caring for him was incredibly gratifying. His presence filled the stables with “a friendly face” for me, turning every moment spent with Master Hope into a cherished memory.

I loved this horse very much and always will! ❤️

5/3/1994

‘st Ninian’ Open National Hunt Flat

Doncaster Racecourse
Master Hope
Result
Finished 8th / 18 ran

Horse Racing

My First Day at Cotswold House Racing Stables

Beginning My Journey in Racing

Monday, September 10th, 1984, marks a significant turning point in my life. It was the day I started working for David Nicholson, fondly known as ‘The Duke,’ at Cotswold House Racing Stables in Condicote. My parents, eager to see me embark on this exciting venture, had me at the stables bright and early, around 6:30 am.

My First Ride and Route

The first horse I rode was Broadheath, who would later in the season move to trainer David Barons.

Our initial task that day was to embark on roadwork around a picturesque route known as the Swells Triangle. The route was about 7 miles long and filled with stunning views of Cotswold countryside.

The Swells Triangle: A Scenic Route

The journey began in Condicote taking the road towards Upper Swell / Stow-on-the-Wold

Then, passing by Waterhead Barn and ascending the hill we made a sharp right turn into a lane that ran over the River Dikler.

After heading over the river, we connected with the B4077

Taking a left, followed by a right and made our way through Upper Swell

We traversed along the country lane towards Lower Swell

Then turned right in Lower Swell (the triangular-shaped village green was on our left) and headed off along the Chalk Hill Road

Our route eventually led to a triangle in the road, where we made another right turn…

Back to Condicote

This was a route I would come to cherish during my time at the stables, offering both beauty and a sense of freedom that only the countryside can provide.

Where it says Cheltenham on the map its nowhere near Cheltenham, its the second triangle (the turning for Condicote) and its google maps which added the label.