My Journey as a Stable Lad: The Start of an Exciting Career in Racing
Beginning My Career in Racing
On September 10, 1984, I embarked on an exciting journey as a stable lad in the racing industry. This pivotal moment marked the start of my full-time employment with renowned racehorse trainer David “The Duke” Nicholson. Working under such an esteemed figure in the horse racing world was an opportunity I cherished immensely.
The First Horse I Rode at Exercise: Broadheath
The very first horse I rode out for Nicholson was a promising thoroughbred called Broadheath. Engaging in roadwork exercise with Broadheath was exhilarating. Under the supervision of experienced staff, I learned the nuances of horse handling and the importance of establishing a strong bond with each horse. This initial experience laid the groundwork for my understanding of equine care and training.
The Life of a Stable Lad
Working as a stable lad involves a rich tapestry of responsibilities—feeding, grooming, and exercising the horses, alongside ensuring their overall well-being. Each day brought new challenges and learning experiences. I became well-acquainted with the horse racing culture, the dedication required, and the underlying passion that fuels this age-old sport. The memories made during my early days still resonate with me, deeply influencing my career trajectory.
Horses I Looked After in Racing
The Story of Charter Party: A Journey Through Triumph and Trials
Introduction to Charter Party
During my time working with David Nicholson, I had the privilege of looking after a remarkable horse named Charter Party for two seasons. This horse was not just another competitor; he was a true champion known for his impressive performances on the racetrack.
First Season Success
In his first season, Charter Party proved to be nothing short of extraordinary. He won at Kempton on Boxing Day, dominating the Ritz Club Handicap Chase at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival, and also clinching victory in the Golden Miller Handicap Chase – another event at Cheltenham. These triumphs established him as a formidable contender and showcased his talents to the racing community.
The Second Year: A Turn in Fortune
However, the following year marked a stark contrast in his performance. I led him up for the Gold Cup, during which he suffered a fall. This unfortunate turn of events highlighted how much pressure had been placed on him. Despite his stellar past, Charter Party struggled to perform at his previous level, and it became evident that his lack of a proper holiday after the 1985/86 season took a toll on his abilities. With summer spent stabled, blistered legs, and not eating well, expectations for him were perhaps too high.
In conclusion, while Charter Party began as a top performer, the pressures of training and also a lack of field rest during his downtime hindered his success in his second season. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of proper rest and recovery for equine athletes to maintain their competitive edge.
Races I led up Charter Party
14/11/85 Wincanton
Silver Buck Handicap Chase
Charter Party 2nd / 4 ran
23/11/85 Newbury
Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
Charter Party Fell / 15 ran
4/12/85 Worcester
Long Haul Handicap Chase
Charter Party 2nd / 9 ran
26/12/85 Kempton Park
Falklands Handicap Chase
Charter Party 1st / 7 ran
15/1/86 Windsor
Royal Windsor Handicap Chase
Charter Party 5th / 7 ran
13/3/86 Cheltenham
Ritz Club National Hunt Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
Charter Party 1st / 16 ran
16/4/86 Cheltenham
Piper Champagne Golden Miller Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
Charter Party 1st / 9 ran
13/11/86 Wincanton
Silver Buck Chase (Limited Handicap)
Charter Party 4th / 7 ran
22/11/86 Newbury
Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (Handicap Chase) (Listed)
Charter Party PU / 15 ran
3/1/87 Newbury
Bradstone Mandarin Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
Charter Party 3rd / 6 ran
21/2/87 Nottingham
Mapperley Handicap Chase
Charter Party 3rd / 4 ran
19/3/87 Cheltenham
Tote Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (Grade I)
Charter Party FELL / 12 ran
Introduction to Viking Flagship
During the 1994/95 season, I had the incredible opportunity to look after the legendary racehorse, Viking Flagship. This exceptional horse made a name for himself by winning prestigious races. His victories included the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown, the Castleford Chase at Wetherby, and the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham. Each of these wins contributed to his remarkable reputation in the racing world.
Early Training Days
Throughout the season, I was involved in the daily training routines of Viking Flagship. Initially, I rode him out at home, but there were moments when he didn’t perform well on the gallops. It can be disheartening when a horse isn’t working to its potential, but this is part of the training process. The ups and downs are expected, and it’s indicative of the journey within equine athletics. Even though my time riding him was cut short, I learned valuable lessons amidst the challenges.
Schooling Over Hurdles
One of the most rewarding experiences I had with Viking Flagship was during his first schooling session of the season over the all-weather hurdles. I was fortunate to get the reins for this vital training session, and it was a great opportunity to see his capabilities shine. Skipping over the hurdles reaffirmed we did have a bond and also showcased the potential he possessed despite earlier inconsistencies. Overall, the experience of working with Viking Flagship was a blend of triumphs and learning moments, shaping my understanding of equestrian sports.
Races I led up Viking Flagship
3/12/94 Sandown Park
Mitsubishi Shogun Tingle Creek Trophy Chase Grade 1
Viking Flagship 1st / 6 run
27/12/94 Wetherby
Castleford Chase Grade 2
Viking Flagship 1st / 6 run
14/1/95 Ascot
Victor Chandler Handicap Chase Grade 2
Viking Flagship 5th / 8 run
11/2/95 Newbury
Mitsubishi Shogun Game Spirit Chase Grade 2
Viking Flagship FELL / 3 run
25/2/95 Kempton Park
Emblem Chase
Viking Flagship 2nd / 4 run
15/3/95 Cheltenham
Queen Mother Champion Chase Grade 1
Viking Flagship 1st / 10 run
The Journey of Silver Wisp: A Cautionary Tale
Introduction to Silver Wisp
Silver Wisp, a very talented gelding I looked after at Jackdaws Castle, showcased his racing ability brilliantly by winning the Group 2 Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket. His success on the racecourse served as a testament to his potential and the dedication of those who cared for him. However, the bittersweet reality of his training regime reveals a cautionary tale about how meticulous care can sometimes lead to unforeseen consequences.
The Impact of Limited Training
Despite his triumphs, Silver Wisp’s racing career was often hindered by constrained opportunities on the track. The inability to race regularly (some of which was intentional) resulted in him not being fit enough for the demands of high-level racing (such as Royal Ascot 7 weeks between races). It was indeed a shame that he didn’t run often enough to maintain a competitive edge, and it ultimately led to challenges down the line.
Unforeseen Leg Trouble
The unfortunate incident that led to his leg troubles I believe can be traced back to an inconsistency in his training environment. After a resurfacing of the all-weather gallops at Jackdaws Castle, Silver Wisp was rushed back onto an area (the loop gallop) that had not fully settled. This, compounded by the fact that he’d never ever trained on that part of the gallop either, contributed to a significant setback. It was even necessary for me to highlight the issue to the head lad, as he had overlooked Silver Wisp’s leg injury.
In summary, though Silver Wisp displayed immense talent, the lack of racecourse appearances and abrupt adjustments in his routine created a situation that led to his decline. This experience serves as a reminder of the delicate balance needed in training practices, emphasizing that even the best intentions can lead to detrimental outcomes if not managed properly.
Races I led up Silver Wisp
19/4/94 Pontefract
Fryston Conditions Stakes
Silver Wisp 2nd / 8 run
29/4/94 Newmarket
Madagans Jockey Club Stakes (Group 2)
Silver Wisp 1st / 8 run
17/6/94 Royal Ascot
Hardwicke Stakes (Group 2)
Silver Wisp 11th / 11 run
13/8/94 Newbury
Tripleprint Geoffrey Freer Stakes Class A (Group 2)
Silver Wisp 5th / 6 run
Memorable Horses: A Reflection on My Racing Experience
Introduction to My Racing Journey
Throughout my racing journey, I have been incredibly fortunate to ride some standout horses at exercise and on the gallops. Each of these equine companions has played a significant role in shaping my experience as a rider and as a racing enthusiast. Each animal has its particular charm, and my time spent with them at exercises and the gallops left an indelible mark on my journey. From the gut-wrenching thrills of the racecourse to the quiet moments spent bonding with these athletes, every experience has contributed to my understanding of the sport.
Notable Horses I’ve Ridden
Some of the horses I had the opportunity to ride include Charter Party, known for his exceptional stamina, and Chinrullah, a horse with a gentle spirit and surprising strength. Another noteworthy mention is Waterloo Boy, whose racing spirit was contagious. His determination on the track inspired both his team and fellow riders. Viking Flagship is also a horse I hold in high regard.
The Lasting Impact of My Equine Partners
Aside from these champions, I had the opportunity to work with other exceptional horses such as Silver Wisp, Moorcroft Boy, Second Schedule, and Relkeel. Each horse brought unique joys and challenges, helping to shape my skills and deepen my love for racing.
Reflecting on these experiences fuels my passion for the racing world, reminding me how fortunate I was to ride such talented horses. Their legacies continue to motivate me as I share my love for equestrian sports.
A Journey Through Racing Stables: My Experience from 1984 to 1996
Introduction to My Racing Stables Journey
My time working in racing stables spanned over a decade, offering me invaluable experiences in various esteemed locations across the UK. The journey began in 1984 and continued until 1996, allowing me to witness the inner workings of the racing industry.
Training Under Esteemed Trainers
I had the privilege of working under renowned trainers, starting with David Nicholson at Cotswold House in Condicote, Gloucestershire. From 1984 to 1987, I learned essential techniques, caring for horses that would eventually race in competitive environments. Following this, I joined Bill Preece’s stable from 1987 to 1988 at The Wrekin in Telford, Shropshire, where I was lucky enough to ride and win on both Baluchi and Crowecopper.
The Evolution of My Career
Between 1988 and 1992, I worked with Bill Clay at Stoke-on-Trent, the high point for me was winning on 13 year old Ardent Spy, who hadn’t won a race for six years. The next phase of my experience included a return to David Nicholson, from 1992 to 1995 at Jackdaws Castle in Temple Guiting, Gloucestershire, where I was involved with Viking Flagship and Silver Wisp. My career concluded at Ludlow, Shropshire, under Captain Tim Forster, where I worked as a lad from 1995 to 1996. Each trainer brought unique methodologies and insights, shaping my understanding of this intricate sport.
The Duke’s Open Day 1985
Michael ‘Corky’ Caulfield and my dad in the same photo
Leading Nicklup for Captain Tim Forster
Going into the Winners Enclosure at Ludlow
Standing with Connaught River
The Duke’s Open Day 1985 in the top yard at Cotswold House, Condicote
Rectory Garden owned by The Earl Cadogan
At Captain Tim Forster’s Second Yard
The Duke’s Open Day 1994
Jackdaws Castle
The Duke’s Open Day 1994
Jackdaws Castle Leading Silver Wisp in the Horse Parade
Master Hope with his lad on The Duke’s Open Day 1994
Riding Master Hope on the gallops at Jackdaws Castle
Riding Master Hope on the gallops at Jackdaws Castle (in front… Fred Hutsby on the horse behind)
Riding Master Hope on the gallops at Jackdaws Castle (in front… Fred Hutsby on the horse behind)
Riding Master Hope on the gallops at Jackdaws Castle
Riding Master Hope on the gallops at Jackdaws Castle
Silver Wisp in Number 1 Stable at Jackdaws Castle
