This vintage photo features some of the biggest names in horse racing at the time. The picture captures the moment when David Nicholson is pictured with some of his prized horses which included, Barton Bank, held by Gordon Clarkson. Alongside them are Viking Flagship, handled by Richard Bevan; Relkeel, with Xavier Aizpuru; and Anzum, attended by Jeremy Dance. Each horse represents the determination and athleticism that the Cheltenham Festival is known for, making them icons in the racing community.
The Cheltenham Festival Significance
The Cheltenham Festival, a highly anticipated event in the horse racing calendar, draws elite competitors and enthusiastic spectators each year. It has transformed into a major celebration for racehorse trainers, owners, and fans alike. Among the notable figures at the 1995 Festival was trainer David Nicholson, who was featured in this newspaper photo announcement titled “Cheltenham Festival Countdown” in the Sporting Life newspaper.
The Excitement Leading to the Festival
The countdown to the Cheltenham Festival in 1995 was filled with anticipation and excitement. Fans eagerly awaited the performances from esteemed racehorses, each with their unique strengths and histories. As the event approached, discussions among pundits and fans heightened the atmosphere, ensuring the racing season would be memorable. Today, the nostalgic memories of iconic trainers and horses from past Festivals remind us of the joy and thrill that the Cheltenham Festival continues to bring to the world of horse racing.
Ludlow Racecourse
Walmer Sands Result
Finished 4th / 10 ran
3/10/1988
Newark International Antique Fair Handicap Chase
Southwell Racecourse
Rimfire Result
Finished 2nd / 5 ran
8/10/1988
Paymasters Selling Handicap Hurdle
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Walmer Sands Result
Finished 11th / 14 ran
8/10/1988
Staffordshire Yeomanry Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Rimfire Result
Finished 4th / 12 ran
15/10/1988
Cock Bank Novices Hurdle
Bangor on Dee Racecourse
Self Raising Result
PU / 18 ran
15/10/1988
Sotheby’s Chester Handicap Chase
Bangor on Dee Racecourse
Baluchi Result
Finished 2nd / 3 ran
15/10/1988
Willis Wrightson North Handicap Chase
Bangor on Dee Racecourse
Crowecopper Result
Finished 1st / 6 ran
15/10/1988
Fenns Bank Novices Hurdle
Bangor on Dee Racecourse
Arenisco Result
Finished 10th / 16 ran
15/10/1988
Marston Border Breweries Novices Chase
Bangor on Dee Racecourse
Walmer Sands Result
Finished 5th / 7 ran
20/10/1988
Burton Rubber Company Handicap Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Rambling Wild Result
Finished 4th / 6 ran
20/10/1988
EBF Foston Intermediate Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Rimfire Result
Finished 1st / 6 ran
Rimfire was getting on a bit when I rode him, when we won this Uttoxeter together he was 13 years old… Rimfire was a good jumper and stayed 3 miles+ well… my dad bought Rimfire off Lord Shrewsbury for £400… I wish I’d had more horses like Rimfire to ride!
10 Rides on Rimfire all over fences
1x 1st
3x 2nd
3x 3rd
2x 4th
1x 6th
Video – Rimfire winning at Uttoxeter Racecourse
EBF Foston Intermediate Chase
1 Rimfire R Bevan
2 Oakgrove B Dowling
3 Rath Wonder S J O’Neill
PU Half A Buck M Sharratt
PU Homepath H Davies
PU Some Do J Bryan
22/10/1988
Ratley Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Snooker Table Result
Finished 14th / 19 ran
27/10/1988
Newark Storage Novices Chase
Southwell Racecourse
Rimfire Result
Finished 6th / 13 ran
3/11/1988
Hawkes Bay Trophy Conditional Jockeys Handicap Chase
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Crowecopper Result
UR / 8 ran
3/11/1988
Warrnambool Trophy Handicap Chase
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Rambling Wild Result
UR / 7 ran
18/11/1988
Stour Novices Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Stormguard Result
Finished 2nd / 3 ran
18/11/1988
Radio Trent Handicap Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Ardent Spy Result
Finished 3rd / 5 ran
26/11/1988
Market Rasen Novices Hurdle
Market Rasen Racecourse
Chico Valdez Result
Finished 12th / 20 ran
28/11/1988
Bulwell Handicap Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Aldro Result
Finished 5th / 6 ran
28/11/1988
Woodborough Novices Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Stormguard Result
Finished 5th / 6 ran
29/11/1988
Houghton Selling Hurdle
Huntingdon Racecourse
Your Office Result
PU / 18 ran
2/12/1988
Partridge Novices Handicap Chase
Southwell Racecourse
Annie Ra Result
Finished 4th / 15 ran
2/12/1988
Curlew Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle
Southwell Racecourse
Royal Cracker Result
Finished 14 / 20 ran
3/12/1988
Stan Mellor Handicap Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Covent Garden Result
Finished 4th / 5 ran
5/12/1988
Long Haul Handicap Chase
Worcester Racecourse
Ardent Spy Result
Finished 4th / 9 ran
A mid-race incident with P Scu in this 3 miles 5 furlongs Long Haul Handicap Chase at Worcester
Scu was riding the favourite Ardesee and I was on Ardent Spy
The race was a staying chase, 3 times up the home straight, Scu was out in front but his mount Ardesee kept jumping right handed (each time Scu would track back over to the rails), I was a couple of lengths behind, on the rail (2nd/3rd) and I was thinking “If he keeps jumping right-handed I’m going to jump up Scudamore’s inside” it was just deciding when
Going down the back, approaching the water jump I thought “This is it” and Ardent Spy jumped it like a stag and true to form Ardesee went right handed… for a short time we were in front which must of pissed Scudamore off a bit because he scrubbed Ardesee along, got him back in front and over his left shoulder he shouted back at me “You F?cking Crazy C?nt Richard”
Neither of us won, he was 3rd, I was 4th… nothing was said in the weighing room
At the end of the day Champion Jockey’s don’t pay your wages!
8/12/1988
Norbury Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Spartan Native Result
Finished 5th / 13 ran
10/12/1988
Sheila’s Cottage Handicap Chase
Doncaster Racecourse
Covent Garden Result
FELL / 4 ran
Warwick Racecourse
Golfers Sunrise Result
Finished 5th / 20 ran
14/12/1988
Holly And Ivy Conditional Jockeys Handicap Chase
Worcester Racecourse
Modern Music Result
PU / 11 ran
14/12/1988
Tattersalls Mares Only Novices Chase Qualifier
Worcester Racecourse
Annie Ra Result
Finished 5th / 15 ran
15/12/1988
Christmas Tree Handicap Chase
Southwell Racecourse
Aldro Result
FELL/13
I broke my collar bone in this fall and was also concussed
5/1/1989
Highland Spring/ROA Handicap Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Covent Garden Result
Finished 5th / 9 ran
7/1/1989
Horncastle Novices Chase
Market Rasen Racecourse
Annie Ra Result
Finished 1st / 10 ran
Annie Ra… I’m glad I won on her because I don’t think she was the easiest to ride… she could start slowly, would always carry her head very high and also pulled quite hard… but at least she jumped
Apart from her being a tricky ride a certain trainers son once said to me that his father thought Annie Ra would be best with me not riding her and that he was looking forward to another jockey riding her in races (a jockey who interestingly enough, also had the Christian name Richard)… It’s something which still sticks in my side but at least I had the satisfaction of this win!
16 rides on Annie Ra over hurdles and fences
1x 1st
1x 3rd
5x 4th
4x 5th
1x 6th
1x 7th
1x 8th
1x SU
1x UR
Annie Ra winning at Market Rasen Racecourse
Horncastle Novices Chase
1 Annie Ra R Bevan
2 Barn Brae Mr J Barton
3 Ringmore Derek Byrne
4 Oxford Place M Pepper
5 Super Sue P A Farrell
6 Boreham Down G ‘Old’ Martin
F Ballyshannon Run J Bryan
PU Vagabundo J McLaughlin
PU Sagart Aroon M Brennan
PU Picadilly Prince S Turner
9/1/1989
Bridgnorth Novices Hurdle (Div I)
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Golfers Sunrise Result
Finished 8th / 16 ran
9/1/1989
Cement City Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Ardent Spy Result
Finished 2nd / 7 ran
Ardent Spy finishing 2nd at Wolverhampton Racecourse
Cement City Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
1 Travel Over R J Beggan
2 Ardent Spy R Bevan
3 Crowecopper Peter Scudamore
4 Scale Model J Bryan
5 Way Under M Perrett
6 Foxbury Gee Armytage
7 Funchen View J D Doyle
12/1/1989
South Muskham Novices Hurdle
Southwell Racecourse
Prince Celtic Result
Finished 3rd / 14 ran
17/1/1989
Bransford Novices Hurdle (Div II)
Worcester Racecourse
The Berwick Result
PU / 24 ran
17/1/1989
Sale Green Novices Handicap Chase
Worcester Racecourse
Annie Ra Result
Finished 5th / 16 ran
Katabatic (1991 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner) won this race
18/1/1989
Church Stretton Conditional Jockeys Selling Hurdle
Ludlow Racecourse
Resha Result
Finished 17th / 19 ran
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Roy Prince Result
Finished 2nd / 4 ran
28/3/1989
Levy Board National Hunt Flat
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Amdaja Result
Finished 9th / 12 ran
A spare ride for Herefordshire trainer Paul James. The owner was Jerry Wright who later owned a horse called Now Your Talkin who David Nicholson trained to win a few races. The interesting runner in this race was Miinnehoma trained by Owen Brennan and owned by comedian Freddie Starr. Miinnehoma was having its first race but won quite easily at 25/1. Miinnehoma went on to win the `Sun Alliance’ Chase at the 1992 Cheltenham Festival and also the 1994 Martell Grand National Chase at Aintree.
Freddie Starr was at the races and I remember seeing him before the race having a joke with some racegoers
Starr had got a Hawaiian type shirt on that was unbuttoned well down from the collar (and his chest hair was showing) and over the top of that he’d got a leather jacket with a zip
The joke was he pretended he was so cold he’d got to do his jacket up and then to play the fool he made out he’d caught his chest hair in the zip which was making several people laugh
A typical Freddie Starr trick and something I saw before getting legged up to ride Amdaja in the race
29/3/1989
Newland Handicap Chase
Worcester Racecourse
Aldro 20/1 Result
Finished 5th / 5 ran
Aldro… by the time I get on him he was an old timer who’s engine had gone
I wouldn’t have minded riding him 7 years earlier but I would have needed time off school to do that!
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
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
Richard Bevan from Market Drayton in Shropshire began his journey in horse racing as a stable lad. He worked under the mentorship of renowned racehorse trainer David Nicholson, who operated at Cotswold House Racing Stables in Condicote, Gloucestershire. Through this foundation, Richard was introduced to the fascinating world of horse racing.
Richard’s Role as a Stable Lad
As a stable lad, Richard Bevan had the responsibility of caring for several notable horses. Among them were Charter Party, Viking Flagship, and Silver Wisp. Experience gained looking after these horses not only shaped Richard’s racing career but also ignited his passion for racing, ultimately leading him to become a jockey.
Achievements as a Jockey
Richard Bevan’s jockey career comprises a blend of amateur and conditional rides in National Hunt Racing. His accomplishments started as an amateur rider, where from 84 rides, he secured five wins and ranked 19th in the 1987/88 Amateur Riders Championship. His racing activities continued as a professional conditional jockey, and from 271 rides, he achieved 11 wins, 35 second places, 45 thirds. He finished 94th in the National Hunt Jockeys Championship for the 1989/90 season.
Bevan’s foray into point-to-point racing showcased his versatility, garnering five wins, including a notable victory at Aintree.
Additionally, Richard Bevan marked his entry into National Hunt victories with an impressive win at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Midlands Grand National day in 1987 aboard Crowecopper, a horse with historical significance as also being the last winner ridden by Roy ‘RF’ Davies.
Introduction to Richard Bevan’s Jockey Career
During Richard’s time in horse racing, he made a name for himself as both an Amateur Rider Jockey and also a Conditional Jockey, riding a number of winners. This section provides a quick overview of Richard Bevan’s statistics during his varied riding career, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the sport.
National Hunt Achievements
During his professional career, Richard Bevan participated in both hurdle racing and steeplechasing. As a professional conditional jockey, Bevan completed a total of 271 rides, during which he secured 11 winners, finished second 35 times, and placed third 45 times. Additionally, he recorded 33 fourth-place finishes, showcasing his consistent performance on the racecourse. In the 1989/90 National Hunt jockeys championship, Bevan finished in 94th position, a testament to his dedication to the sport.
Amateur Rides and Point-to-Point Success
Before turning professional, Richard Bevan also made a significant impact in amateur racing. He rode in 84 races, achieving a commendable 5 winners, along with 6 second-place and 6 third-place finishes, which earned him a 19th place in the 1987/88 Amateur Riders Championship. Additionally, his point-to-point racing saw him ride 53 times, resulting in 5 victories, including a win at Aintree Racecourse. His 6 second-place finishes and 8 third-place finishes further illustrated his skill and determination on the field.
Richard Bevan Quick Stats
As a jockey Richard Bevan rode several National Hunt winners (hurdle racing and steeplechasing). These winners came as both an amateur rider and also a Conditional Jockey.
Professional Conditional Jockey
From 271 rides
11 winners
35 seconds
45 thirds
33 fourths
I finished 94th in the 1989/90 National Hunt Jockeys Championship
National Hunt Racing Amateur Jockey
From 84 rides
5 winners
6 seconds
6 thirds
9 fourths
I finished 19th in the 1987/88 Amateur Riders Championship
Point-to-Point Racing
From 53 rides
5 winners, including one at Aintree.
6 seconds
8 thirds
4 fourths
I won the 1987 North West Area Novice Leading Rider
Lawnswood Miss I led her up 5 times 4x unplaced and 1x pulled up
2x Cheltenham UNPL
2x Newbury UNPL and PU
1x Liverpool UNPL
The only season I looked after her she was riddled with a virus as were most of The Duke’s horses… besides, Lawnswood Miss was not well handicapped.
The photo is from Liverpool which was her last race, after which she was sent to Lord Northampton’s Stud and got in foal by Broadsword
Lawnswood Miss was a lovely mare to look after and I used to ride her at exercise all the time… she was a little bit funny when I got legged up on her in a morning when she would always put her back up as if she was going to buck but she never did and after about 20 seconds she would settle down again… The Duke would always shout at me “Stand up in the irons, Stand up in the irons…”
Lawnswood Miss stable was near the front gate at Cotswold House, just to the right of the stone steps that went up to the tack room.
She was good to look after and good to lead up… she had a white star on the front of her face and I loved her.
