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
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
On Thursday, February 23, 1961, Southwell Racecourse welcomed a number of competitors, including Guinea Hunter, who made a notable appearance in the Edwalton Hurdle Division II race. My mum played her role in leading up this horse, expertly handled by jockey Stan Mellor. This maiden race for four-year-olds was over 2 miles and 80 yards, with a prize pot of £170 attracting attention from racing enthusiasts.
October 15, 1962: Another Day at the Races
Fast forward to Monday, October 15, 1962, and we see my dad taking on the responsibility of leading up another contender, Gold Pride. Jockey Ivor Markham took the reins for this race, which was the Upton Selling Handicap Chase, covering a 2-mile distance. This race, with a prize fund of £186, also took place at Southwell Racecourse, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere of local racing.
Training at Roy Whiston’s Yard
Both Guinea Hunter and Gold Pride were prepared at Herne Farm in Hodnet, located near Market Drayton in Shropshire, England. There, renowned trainer Roy Whiston dedicated himself to ensuring that these horses were ready to compete at the local tracks. Reflecting on these events not only brings nostalgia but also emphasizes the joy and dedication of those involved in horse racing.
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.
