Hereford Racecourse
Jay’Ay’Dee
Finished 5th / 16 ran Result
8/10/1987
Grunwick Stakes National Hunt Flat Race
Cheltenham Racecourse
Jay’Ay’Dee
(4, 5 & 6YO)
BD/28 ran Result
14/10/1987
Wetherby National Hunt Flat
Wetherby Racecourse
Don’t Telmag
Finished 22nd / 25 ran Result
16/10/1987
Southwold Amateur Riders Novices Chase
Market Rasen Racecourse
Eric’s Wish
FELL / 12 ran Result
26/10/1987
Fisher & Sons Fakenham Ltd Hurdle Gentleman Amateur Riders
Fakenham Racecourse
Eric’s Wish
Finished 7th / 15 ran Result
27/10/1987
Horse And Hound Challenge Cup Amateur Riders Handicap Hurdle
Plumpton Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 8th / 19 ran Result
6/11/1987
Mold Handicap Chase
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Crowecopper
Finished 5th / 9 ran Result
7/11/1987
University Of Warwick Turf Club Novices Handicap Hurdle
Warwick Racecourse
Aphrodisiac
Finished 17 / 24 ran Result
9/11/1987
Racing Post Handicap Hurdle
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 4th / 19 ran Result
23/11/1987
Salt Hill Handicap Chase
Windsor Racecourse
Crowecopper
Finished 1st / 4 ran Result
Video – Crowecopper winning at Windsor
Salt Hill Handicap Chase
1 Crowecopper R Bevan
2 Dart Over P Richards
3 Memberson B Powell Snr
F Lanacre Bridge Peter Hobbs
24/11/1987
Aslockton Handicap Hurdle
Southwell Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 5th / 15 ran Result
28/11/1987
Ideal Homes Thames Handicap Chase
Towcester Racecourse
Crowecopper
Finished 4th / 7 ran Result
4/12/1987
Ladderback Selling Hurdle
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Pialuci
Finished 12th / 17 ran Result
7/12/1987
Cherry Orchard Handicap Hurdle
Worcester Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 5th / 16 ran Result
19/12/1987
Yellow Collar Handicap Hurdle
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 6th / 11 ran Result
26/12/1987
Deepfields Novices Chase
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 4th / 9 ran Result
26/12/1987
Harry Brown Challenge Cup (Handicap Chase)
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Baluchi
Finished 3rd / 7 ran Result
16/1/1988
Boston Selling Handicap Hurdle
Market Rasen Racecourse
Thumps
Finished 9th / 22 ran Result
20/1/1988
Richards Castle Handicap Chase
Ludlow Racecourse
Crowecopper
Finished 2nd / 13 ran Result
Video – Crowecopper 2nd at Ludlow
Richards Castle Handicap Chase
1 Kelly’s Boy A Adams
2 Crowecopper R Bevan
3 Pea-Cock-Ade A O’Hagan
4 Holemoor Patrol Peter Hobbs
5 Deep And Even Peter Scudamore
6 Broad Beam J Bryan
7 Stoney Creek P Croucher
8 Megabit K Traylor
PU Kyle Prince R J Beggan
PU Word Of Wisdom R Bellamy
PU Fifth Column B Dowling
PU Juvenile Prince E Buckley
UR Bryma D Tegg
29/1/1988
Hamilton Campbell Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
Ayr Racecourse
Baluchi
Finished 3rd / 3 ran Result
16/2/1988
Manning Hunters Chase Challenge Cup
Towcester Racecourse
Rimfire
Finished 3rd / 6 ran Result
17/2/1988
Astwood Handicap Hurdle
Worcester Racecourse
Thumps
Finished 13th / 18 ran Result
Edinburgh Racecourse
Jay’Ay’Dee
Finished 13th / 14 ran Result
2/3/1988
Mark Five Amateur Riders Handicap Chase
Worcester Racecourse
Crowecopper
Finished 3rd / 16 ran Result
2/3/1988 I rode Crowecopper 11/2 in the Mark Five Amateur Riders Handicap Chase at Worcester Racecourse and we Finished 3rd / 16 ran. Henderson’s horse Cumrew ridden by Jamie Railton (the favourite) made the running until it fell 3 from home leaving Crowecopper and myself in front which wasn’t an ideal situation for my horse (as he would think he’d already won)… however, at this point we had to make the best of our way home. Crowecopper jumped the next well but on the run to the last a couple of the others (both big odds) came past us and we finished 3rd, beating Kim Bailey’s runner a short head into 4th place.
2/3/1988
Hoechst Panacur EBF Mares Only Novices Hurdle Qualifier
Worcester Racecourse
Ruby’s Vision
Finished 20th / 25 ran Result
2/3/1988 I rode Ruby’s Vision 50/1 in the Hoechst Panacur EBF Mares Only Novices Hurdle Qualifier at Worcester Racecourse. Finished 20th / 25 ran.
Ruby’s Vision was quite well bred and was a half sister to St Alezan who finished 2nd in a Mackeson Gold Cup unfortunately Ruby’s Vision was not a racehorse but she did breed a couple of winners. Owners came from Whitchurch.
9/3/1988
Holywell Selling Hurdle (Div II)
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Wood Farm Girl
Finished 2nd / 12 ran Result
I rode Wood Farm Girl
10/3/1988
Welford Handicap Chase
Stratford Racecourse
Baluchi
Finished 4th / 13 ran Result
25/3/1988
Aston Handicap Chase
Ludlow Racecourse
Baluchi
Finished 1st / 9 ran Result
Baluchi winning at Ludlow Racecourse
Aston Handicap Chase
1 Baluchi R Bevan
2 Outlaw I T Morgan
3 Pan Arctic C Kellett
4 Broad Beam J Bryan
5 Fare Love P Warner
6 Dundalk Bells N Hawke
7 Itsgottabealright Carl Llewellyn
0 Nudge Nudge I M Williams
0 Steel Venture W Hayes
28/3/1988
Arrow Novices Handicap Chase
Hereford Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 7th / 14 ran Result
4/4/1988
Easter Handicap Chase
Market Rasen Racecourse
Baluchi
Finished 1st / 6 ran Result
Baluchi winning at Market Rasen Racecourse
Easter Handicap Chase
1 Baluchi R Bevan
2 Wild Argosy N Fearn
3 Wise Cracker I Peter Niven
4 Fair Babu S Turner
5 Kevinsfort J Hayes
PU Keycorn M Brennan
9/4/1988
Herefordshire Light Horse Breeding Society Nov Hunter Chase
Hereford Racecourse
Rimfire
Finished 2nd / 12 ran Result
13/4/1988
Duncrievie Handicap Chase
Perth Racecourse
Baluchi
Finished 1st / 6 ran
I won three races out of seven riding Baluchi
… Ludlow, Market Rasen and this race at Perth
I remember the first time we won at Ludlow, as I was being legged up on Baluchi, the trainer says to me “If you don’t win, don’t come f?cking back!”
“That’s nice” I thought
We’d won 3 races on the bounce together then he ran in the Holman Cup at Cheltenham and I was jocked off… Baluchi pulled up
7 rides on Baluchi all over fences
3x 1st
1x 2nd
2x 3rd
1x 4th
Baluchi ridden by Richard Bevan winning the Duncrievie Handicap Chase at Perth Racecourse April 1988
1 Baluchi R Bevan
2 Tactico M Hammond
3 Queens Palace Dai Burchell
4 Wise Cracker Peter Niven
5 Music Be Magic C Grant
PU Tumble Jim S Cunningham
14/4/1988
Caputh Amateur Riders Handicap Hurdle
Perth Racecourse
Soldier of Destiny
Finished 7th / 17 ran
Becoming a National Hunt Permit Trainer was an exciting challenge that required dedication and knowledge of horse management. In this post, I share my experiences from holding a National Hunt Permit Trainer’s Licence for one season and the journey that led me there.
Starting with Point-to-Pointers
Initially, I trained a couple of point-to-pointers, managing to secure two places but unfortunately no wins. Although the outcomes were not as desired, the experience opened doors for me in the world of horse training. My highlight came when I trained a horse called Political Power who I purchased for just £1,000 at the Malvern Horse Sales. This horse showed some improved racecourse performances for my training, such as finishing second at 66-1 in a handicap hurdle at Towcester Racecourse.
Preparing for the Trainer’s Permit
To obtain my National Hunt Trainer’s Permit, I enrolled in the horse racing training course at the British School of Racing in Newmarket. Completing this course allowed me to earn an NVQ Level 3 in Racehorse Management. I later attended an interview at the Jockey Club Licensing Department located at 42 Portman Square, London.
Even though my one season as a Permit holder didn’t produce winners, I cherished working with my horse, which also placed fourth at 50-1 in a novice chase at Fontwell Racecourse during the year of the foot and mouth epidemic.
To accompany my journey, I have included a video of Political Power schooling over fences for the first time.
Horses I Led Up at the Races
1986/1987 National Hunt Season
1/11/1986
Corinth Novices Hurdle (Division II)
Chepstow Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 5th / 22 ran
5/11/1986
E.B.F. Novices Hurdle Qualifier (4, 5 and 6-y-o)
Newbury Racecourse
Condicote Boy
Finished 9th / 21 ran
13/11/1986
Silver Buck Chase (Limited Handicap)
Wincanton Racecourse
Charter Party
Finished 4th / 7 ran
22/11/1986
Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (Handicap Chase)
Newbury Racecourse
Charter Party
PU / 15 ran
27/11/1986
Askett Novices Hurdle (Division I)
Warwick Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 3rd / 16 ran
27/11/1986
Askett Novices Hurdle (Division II)
Warwick Racecourse
Members Revenge
Finished 8th / 17 ran
2/12/1986
Damsells Novices Hurdle (F&M) (Division II)
Hereford Racecourse
Annie Ra
FELL / 16 ran
22/12/1986
Christmas Pudding Novices Hurdle (Division I)
Towcester Racecourse
Condicote Boy
Finished 4th / 17 ran
26/12/1986
Netherton Four-Year-Old Handicap Hurdle
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Annie Ra
FELL / 19 ran
3/1/1987
Bradstone Mandarin Handicap Chase
Newbury Racecourse
Charter Party
Finished 3rd / 6 ran
4/2/1987
E.B.F. Oats & Celtic Cone Novices Hurdle (Mares)
Hereford Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 6th / 17 ran
11/2/1987
Datchet Novices Hurdle
Ascot Racecourse
Condicote Boy
Finished 6th / 18 ran
11/2/1987
Reynoldstown Novices Chase
Ascot Racecourse
Against The Grain
Finished 2nd / 5 ran
21/2/1987
Mapperley Handicap Chase
Nottingham Racecourse
Charter Party
Finished 3rd / 4 ran
12/3/1987
Alveston Handicap Hurdle
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 4th / 7 ran
19/3/1987
Tote Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase
Cheltenham Racecourse
Charter Party
FELL / 12 ran
Charter Party was just making up the numbers in the 1987 Gold Cup
He’d been kept stabled the previous Summer (’86)during which he was blistered and hobdayed (got a bit of a leg after winning the Golden Miller at Cheltenham, also had a breathing problem) and was then put straight into training when the other horses came back from their holidays… he had no break
Throughout the 1986/87 season Charter Party had no appetite and often left his food… something I told of and actually showed to the “old man” and also to the head lad… I would fill a black bucket up with the food he’d left and take it into the office first thing in the morning for them to see… he ran all season 20-25 kilos lighter than he had the previous one
Then to make matters worse, in the early part of 1987 Charter Party developed a fairly large lump on his rump (which he ran in the 87 Gold Cup with)… in the end, to put it right the lump was drained which was done when he was taken out of training… what caused the lump will never be known but I do remember him having a couple of “vitamin” injections into his backside (I told the Guv’nor this)
I think if you look at the photo I’ve attached to this post of him going down to the start you can see how light Charter Party looks in his condition (his neck, the breast girth hanging loose… wasn’t even wearing a breast girth or breastplate 12 months earlier in the Ritz) and if you look even more carefully you will see the lump near the top of his quarter, it was quite large
Charter Party was always a Gold Cup horse but at no point was 1987 going to be his year
… at least I can say I led Charter Party up in the Snowstorm Gold Cup!
Richard Bevan National Hunt Rides 1986/87 Racing Season
12 rides… Average Starting Price Odds 24.25 to 1
Owners Prize Money £1847
Completed 10 = 83.3%
2 rides in the first four 16.6% 1x 1st place 8.3% 1x 4th place 8.3%
fell 0 = 0% / ur 0 = 0% / bd 0 = 0% / co 0 = 0% / ro 0 = 0% / pu 2 = 16.7% / su 0 = 0%
1986/1987 National Hunt Season
23/8/1986
Border Amateur Riders Handicap Hurdle
Hereford Racecourse
Saucy Mop
Finished 9th / 17 ran
4/9/1986
Grunwick Stakes National Hunt Flat Race (4, 5 & 6-y-o)
Worcester Racecourse
Members Revenge
Finished 7th / 26 ran
3/10/1986
Grunwick Stakes National Hunt Flat Race
(4, 5 & 6-y-o)
Hereford Racecourse
Right Formula
Finished 4th / 7 ran
9/10/1986
Grunwick Stakes National Hunt Flat Race (4, 5 & 6-y-o)
Cheltenham Racecourse
Right Formula
Finished 9th / 11 ran
Sandown Park Racecourse
Dealers Dream
Finished 14th / 21 ran
A ride on Dealers Dream
The owner was getting the mare fit at home then brought it to Nicholson’s one Sunday morning to give it a gallop with one of The Duke’s with the idea of leaving at the yard if it went well enough… this was late Jan early Feb 1987.
I was working that Sunday morning, we’d been mucking out then leading a few out around The Pound in Condicote after which some were going to be ridden.
Nicholson said to me “Richard, you ride the mare that’s just arrived in a gallop with Selborne Record ridden by Dan (Jones)”… the lady owner was with The Guv’nor when he said this.
They had taken it off the horsebox and put it in one of the stables, after all the owner was intending to leave it in the yard.
I got my tack and went to saddle up… after a minute or two The Duke (now alone) had followed me up the yard and he said “Richard make sure this mare doesn’t work very well, I don’t want the f?cker in the yard” and added “you will be working up the all weather, make sure you lose a few lengths in the dip before the bend” … this was the all weather gallop at Condicote, the one that ran uphill for about 4 furlongs following the outside of the fields/edge of the woods before running into a dip before a right handed bend to continue slightly downhill along the edge of the fields/woods to the finish
It was in the dip I had to lose some ground
I thought blimey but just answered “Ok”
Anyhow, Selborne Record couldn’t have gone quick enough because even though I lost some ground the mare made it up and finished upsides her galloping partner
The Duke and the owner were at the end of the gallop and us two lads took a turn back to the trainer and he said “How was that?”
I just said “She’s done nothing wrong”
They drove off in the Daihatsu and Dan and myself walked back to the yard
There was no getting out of it, the mare was stopping in the yard… Nicholson didn’t say anything to me about the gallop but what he did say was “When that mare runs, you ride!”… while he said those words he was pointing his finger into my chest
That’s how I got the leg up on Dealers Dream and as a result got to ride in the purple colours normally carried by the decent chaser Contradeal
4/4/1987
Chivas Regal Amateur Handicap Hurdle
Aintree Racecourse
Annie Ra
Finished 11th / 17 ran
21/4/1987
Sir Geoffrey Congreve Cup Hunters Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Dynadee
PU / 7 ran
2/5/1987
Tom Beckett Amateur Riders Challenge Trophy Handicap Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Crowecopper
Finished 1st / 9 ran
Crowecopper was my first winner under National Hunt Rules and he was also my friend Roy “RF” Davies final winner
I won three races out of ten on Crowecopper, at Uttoxeter, Windsor and Bangor-on-Dee
10 rides in total on Crowecopper all over fences
3x 1st
2x 2nd
1x 3rd
1x 4th
1x 5th
1x SU
1x UR
Video – Crowecopper winning at Uttoxeter
Between 1986 and 2000, I had the privilege of riding in the thrilling world of Point-To-Point Racing. Being a part of this competitive niche of horse racing has been both exciting and rewarding. My journey began in the picturesque fields of Staffordshire, where I rode my first point-to-point race on a horse named Rimfire.
Throughout my time in point-to-pointing, I experienced several triumphs that stand out in my memory. One notable achievement was securing wins in various point-to-point events, including the 1987 North West Area Novice Riders Title. Winning this award marked a significant milestone in my career, elevating my confidence and encouraging me to strive for more.
In total I had 53 point to point rides
Completed 30 = 56.6%
23 rides in the first 4 places = 43.4%
5 1st 9.4% winners
6 2nd 11.3% placed second
8 3rd 15.1% placed third
4 4th 7.5% placed fourth
fell 5 = 9.4% / ur 0 = 0% / bd 1 = 1.9% / co 1 = 1.9% / ro 1 = 1.9% / pu 15 = 28.3%
1986
Date Venue Horse Position/Runners
15/3/1986 Eaton Hall
Rimfire 2nd/16
Master of Mickley PU/16
Introduction to My Racing Journey
Every passionate rider remembers their very first experience in a competitive race; it becomes a defining moment in their career. For me, that unforgettable day occurred at Eaton Hall during the Wynnstay Point to Point event. I proudly mounted Rimfire and achieved a respectable second place out of 16 runners. This initial success filled me with excitement and motivation.
Competing on Master of Mickley
On the same day, I also had the opportunity to ride another horse, Master of Mickley, for trainer Peter Brookshaw in the maiden point to point race. Unfortunately, this time, I pulled up during the race among a field of 16 runners. While it was disappointing not to finish, the experience was still valuable. Pulling up was crucial as it demonstrated awareness of the horse’s condition and the importance of prioritizing a horse’s health over competition.
A Memorable Conversation with My Guvnor
Returning to work on the following Monday, I recounted my experiences to my guvnor, David Nicholson, otherwise known as “The Duke”. His inquiry about my performance prompted an interesting conversation. When I shared the results, especially my pulled up ride on the maiden Master of Mickley, he delivered a memorable piece of advice: “Don’t ride in f?cking maidens.” Despite my explanation that the horse jumped well and I responsibly pulled it up, he cautioned me, “Don’t ride in f?cking maidens… YET!” This exchange encapsulated the lessons learned from my early experiences in racing.
31/3 Eyton on Severn Rimfire 3rd/9
12/4 Sandon Rimfire 4th/16
26/4 Eaton Hall Rimfire 3rd/12
3/5 Weston Park Rimfire 3rd/10
1987
Date Venue Horse Position/Runners
21/3 Eaton Hall Rimfire BD/17
21/3 Eaton Hall The Berwick PU/14
18/4 Sandon Rimfire 1st/11
18/4 Sandon Blue Gift Fell/11
22/4 Eyton on Severn Rimfire 2nd/7
22/4 Eyton on Severn The Berwick 5th/15
22/4 Eyton on Severn Tudor Beam PU/18
25/4 Chaddesley Corbett Indian Retreat 3rd/9
2/5 Weston Park Rimfire 4th
4/5 Eyton on Severn The Berwick 2nd/8
4/5 Eyton on Severn Tudor Beam 1st/12
1988
Date Venue Horse Position/Runners
5/3 Weston Park Rimfire 3rd
Kintbury in front Steve Brookshaw and Jonathan Cambidge on Rodace (Whiston’s) and us in between the two
Mens Open race at Weston Park Point to Point 5th March 1988
Kintbury Steve Brookshaw
Rodace Jonathan Cambidge
Rimfire and me
(and also my mother)
5/3 Weston Park Tudor Beam PU
5/3 Weston Park The Berwick PU
12/3 Eaton Hall Kings Award PU
12/3 Eaton Hall Blouser PU
12/3 Eaton Hall Suntan PU
14/3 Chaddesley Corbett Secret Island FELL
2/4 Sandon Rimfire Ran Out (wrong side of marker)
2/4 Sandon Kingford PU
2/4 Sandon Suntan PU
16/4 Sandon Rimfire 5th
16/4 Sandon Kings Award 2nd/13
30/4 Weston Park Tudor Beam 3rd/9
30/4 Weston Park The Berwick 2nd/17
2/5 Eyton on Severn Kings Award 4th/9
2/5 Eyton on Severn Gold Ace 1st/9
The Aintree Racecourse Victory
Perhaps one of my most memorable point to pointing moments came in 1988, when I won a point-to-point at Aintree Racecourse. The esteemed venue, known for hosting the Grand National, provided a unique backdrop for my victory, making it a remarkable highlight of my racing journey. These experiences in point-to-point racing have shaped my love for the sport and fostered deep connections with fellow enthusiasts.
7/5 Aintree Gold Ace 1st/13
7/5 Aintree Salad 6th/12
7/5 Aintree Sailing By 6th/16
1992
Changes in Racing Regulations
1992 saw an important change to the racing rules regarding Amateur Riders. The governing bodies decided to implement a new regulation that allowed riders who had held a professional license for less than thirty months to return to amateur status after a twelve-month hiatus from racing. This shift offered a lifeline to many riders and opened new pathways for those looking to make a comeback… such as me
A Personal Milestone
For me, this regulation was particularly crucial, as I had held my professional license for twenty-nine months. When the update was enacted, I just made the cut-off for returning to amateur status. It was a unique opportunity, allowing me to reflect on my riding journey while considering what lay ahead. This period of adjustment represented not just a shift in my career, but also an exciting prospect of new beginnings.
Date Venue Horse Position/Runners
21/3 Sandon Arthur’s Rascal FELL/17
21/3 Sandon Ardent Spy 5th/12
28/3 Alpraham Rouse About FELL/12
28/3 Alpraham Billy’s Boy PU/12
28/3 Alpraham Ocean Rogue PU/8
The Final Winning Ride
In April 1992, I experienced a notable moment in my riding career; it was the day I rode my last point-to-point winner on a mare named Rouse About at the Brampton Bryan point-to-point track. This event stands out as a significant highlight, marking the end of an important chapter in my life as a rider.
11/4 Brampton Bryan Rouse About 1st/13
20 4 1992 Eyton on Severn
20/4 Eyton on Severn Ardent Spy PU/6
20/4 Eyton on Severn Ocean Rogue PU/10
20/4 Eyton on Severn Rouse About 3rd/7
20/4 Eyton on Severn Last By Space PU/15
20/4 Eyton on Severn Adderley Lass FELL/9
The Impact of a Shaken Brain Injury
After experiencing a Shaken Brain Injury during the fall on Adderley Lass at Eyton on Severn 20/4/1992, my life took an unexpected turn. The injury led to a week-long hospital stay filled with uncertainty. Shaken brain injuries affect cognitive functions, and they can result in memory loss, which I encountered firsthand. Even today, I struggle to recall any details about my hospitalisation.
Life After a Brain Injury
Recovering from a shaken brain injury is a gradual process. Initially, I faced challenges with everyday tasks and recollections. The hospital environment, filled with medical professionals and treatments, has become a blur in my memory. This experience has underscored the importance of support systems for those affected by similar injuries.
Moving Forward: Coping Strategies
Finding ways to cope with the aftermath of a shaken brain injury is essential. At the time engaging in gentle physical activity, such as walking, helped improve my overall wellness. Additionally, surrounding myself with loved ones who provided comfort can make a significant difference in the recovery journey. Recognizing that healing takes time is crucial, and one had to embrace the process with patience.
National Hunt Rides 1990/91
40 rides… Average Starting Price Odds 19.782 to 1
Owners Prize Money £8080
Completed 35 = 87.5%
23 rides in the first 4 places = 57.5%
0x 1st 0% winners
12x 2nd 30% placed second
4x 3rd 10% placed third
7x 4th 17.5% placed fourth
fell 0 = 0% / ur 2 = 5% / bd 0 = 0% / co 0 = 0% / ro 0 = 0% / pu 3 = 7.5%
1990/1991 National Hunt Season
3/8/1990
BBC Radio Wales Novices Hurdle
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Royal Hunt
Finished 2nd / 11 ran Result
3/8/1990
Bpa Exhibitions Novices Chase
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Hill Beagle
Finished 2nd / 5 ran Result
9/8/1990
Radford Bavarian Novices Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Hill Beagle
Finished 2nd / 2 ran Result
9/8/1990
Queensway China Novices Hurdle
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Royal Hunt
UR / 11 RAN Result
(I needed stitches in my mouth after this)
18/8/1990
Fred Archer Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Hill Beagle
Fnished 2nd / 8 ran Result
27/8/1990
Rose County Handicap Hurdle
Southwell Racecourse
Hill Beagle
Finished 2nd / 7 ran Result
27/8/1990
Hopeful Novices Hurdle
Southwell Racecourse
Royal Hunt
Finished 2nd / 10 ran Result
29/8/1990
Cooper Callas Bathroom Distributors Handicap Chase
Newton Abbot Racecourse
Ardent Spy
PU / 4 ran Result
29/8/1990
Armitage Shanks Forum Shower Enclosure Novices Chase
Newton Abbot Racecourse
Prince Celtic
UR / 7 ran Result
1/9/1990
Hole In Wall Novices Chase
Hereford Racecourse
Hill Beagle
Finished 2nd / 4 ran Result
Remembering Hill Beagle: A Unique Racing Journey
Introduction to Hill Beagle
Hill Beagle was a funny little horse, whose distinctive personality set him apart from others at the stables. Although his ride at home could be quite challenging, especially with his tendency to hang to the left, he was ultimately a talented racehorse. His unique gait aside, he showcased impressive skills over hurdles and fences, becoming a cherished partner of mine for many rides.
Success on the Track
During our time together, Hill Beagle and I celebrated a series of victories, particularly at Southwell. With four wins in handicap hurdles, he proved his capability on all-weather surfaces. Despite his smaller stature, likely under 16 hands, Hill Beagle’s strong build allowed him to excel in competitions. These wins were not just milestones; they represented teamwork and the joy of racing.
A Fond Farewell
Regrettably, not every moment in racing is filled with triumph. Hill Beagle’s progress took a sombre turn when he suffered a breakdown during a novice chase at Hereford while running a promising second. It was a critical moment, and potentially, he should have clinched victory. This race marked the final time I rode him on the course, a bittersweet reminder of our journey together. Hill Beagle may not have been the easiest ride, but his spirit and courage will always be remembered.
24 rides on Hill Beagle over hurdles and fences
4x 1st
5x 2nd
5x 3rd
1x 4th
1x 5th
2x 6th
3x 7th
1x 8th
1x 10th
1x UR
15/9/1990
Redbrook Novices Handicap Hurdle
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Royal Hunt Result
Finished 4th / 9 ran
1/10/1990
Royal Welsh Showground In May Cond. Jockeys Novices Hurdle
Southwell Racecourse
Royal Hunt Result
Finished 2nd / 9 ran
6/10/1990
Staffordshire Yeomanry Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Ardent Spy Result
Finished 4th / 7 ran
13/10/1990
Farnsfield Handicap Chase
Southwell Racecourse
Ardent Spy Result
Finished 3rd / 4 ran
20/10/1990
Ratley Conditional Jockeys Claiming Hurdle
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Royal Hunt Result
Finished 2nd / 10 ran
25/10/1990
Colonel R. Thompson Memorial Trophy Handicap Chase
Southwell Racecourse
Ardent Spy Result
Finished 2nd / 7 ran
Ardent Spy 2nd at Southwell Racecourse
Colonel R. Thompson Memorial Trophy Handicap Chase
1 Tartan Tempest N Doughty
2 Ardent Spy R Bevan
3 Wild Argosy J Railton
4 Border Tinker Graham Bradley
5 Oisins Castle K A Ryan
F Confident Vote Peter Niven
PU Bonnie Artist C Grant
