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, achieving 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
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
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
One of the most significant books from my childhood was ‘The Winter Kings’ by Ivor Herbert. It was the only book in my school bag that truly captivated me. As a young reader, I found it to be a source of inspiration and knowledge, making it stand out amid the sea of textbooks I lugged around each day.
An Unexpected Encounter
Years later, I had the opportunity to speak with Ivor Herbert himself. I was curious about a detail that fascinated me regarding the 1957 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Linwell. I asked Herbert why he was not listed as the trainer when it was, in fact, his head lad, Charlie Mallon, who held the license. He explained that as a journalist, he was unable to obtain a training license due to potential conflicts of interest. This insight not only reinforced Herbert’s journalistic integrity but also deepened my appreciation for the complexities behind horse racing.
Significance of the Book
‘The Winter Kings’ was more than just a book; it was my companion throughout my schooling years. It not only sparked my interest in horse racing but also represented a fleeting connection to the sport. Interestingly, the book cost 30 shillings at its release in 1968, the very year I was born. This connection highlights how literature can influence our lives and inform our passions, even decades later. To this day, I treasure the recollections of ‘The Winter Kings’ and its author.
Explore the fascinating account of Richard Bevan’s experiences during the 1984/85 National Hunt Racing Season, leading up horses for racehorse trainer David Nicholson from Cotswold House Racing Stables, Condicote near Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire.
20/10/1984
Fenns Bank Novices Hurdle (Div II)
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
The Shiner
Fenns Bank Novices Hurdle (Div II)
Finished 4th / 11 ran
9/11/1984
Philip Cornes Novice Hurdle Qualifier
Cheltenham Racecourse
The Shiner
Philip Cornes Novice Hurdle Qualifier
Finished 8th / 23 ran
23/11/1984
Round Oak Handicap Hurdle
Newbury Racecourse
Lawnswood Miss
Round Oak Handicap Hurdle
Finished 13th / 15 ran
7/12/1984
Coral Golden Hurdle Handicap (Qualifier)
Cheltenham Racecourse
Lawnswood Miss
Coral Golden Hurdle Handicap (Qualifier)
Finished 9th / 16 ran
12/12/1984
Malden Timber Novices Hurdle Qualifier
Huntingdon Racecourse
Golden Raider
Malden Timber Novices Hurdle Qualifier
Finished 9th / 22 ran
19/12/1984
Turkey Novices Hurdle (Div 1)
Worcester Racecourse
Golden Raider
Turkey Novices Hurdle (Div 1)
Finished 9th / 20 ran
5/2/1985
Malden Timber Novices Hurdle (Qualifier)
Warwick Racecourse
Golden Raider
Malden Timber Novices Hurdle (Qualifier)
Finished 10th / 16 ran
25/2/1985
Malden Timber Novices Hurdle (Qualifier)
Doncaster Racecourse
Golden Raider
Malden Timber Novices Hurdle (Qualifier)
Finished 8th / 15 ran
1/3/1985
Radcot Handicap Hurdle
Newbury Racecourse
Lawnswood Miss
Radcot Handicap Hurdle
Pulled Up / 19 ran
1/3/1985 I led up Lawnswood Miss in the Radcot Handicap Hurdle at Newbury Racecourse. Pulled Up / 19 ran.
1984/85 National Hunt Season was my first year in racing. I had been going to David Nicholson’s yard in my school holidays since I was 14 and The Duke’s yard was the only place I was going to when I left education.
I started work at Nicholson’s Cotswold House stables on September 10th 1984 and Lawnswood Miss was one of the first horses I looked after, the other two being The Shiner and Golden Raider.
It was a bad year for Nicholson trained horses as there was a nasty virus going round the yard and all season he only trained 17 winners from 50+ horses.
Lawnswood Miss didn’t run a good race all year and going back to the race mentioned above it was no exception as she pulled up… later found to have mucus in her airways… she still ran twice more in March before being retired to stud for breeding… she went to Lord Northampton’s horse Broadsword (who The Duke had trained)… I went in the horsebox with her the day she went to stud
As for my other two horses
The Shiner, I led him up a couple of times, 4th at Bangor and down the field at Cheltenham before he got moved on to David Murray Smith’s yard… where he won.
In The Shiner’s place I got to look after Jungle Jim but he had bad legs and only ran once that season before he was sold.
Golden Raider I led up several times in novice hurdles, showed some promise but another horse with the virus… in March 1985 the owners moved Golden Raider away from Nicholson’s to Martin Pipe’s… later the same season Golden Raider won for Pipe at Ludlow…the horse was Pipe’s 40th winner of the season… the first time he’d trained 40 winners
In Golden Raider’s place I got Pippahmint Lass, (a chestnut filly by Sunyboy, at the time 3 years old) to look after… I never led her up at the races but I did take her to Doncaster Sales (stopped overnight in Doncaster) where she won her class at the pre sales show before being unsold at 8000 guineas in the auction ring.
I remember as I was going in the sale ring with Pippahmint Lass The Duke said to me “Don’t worry she’s not being sold”
… I thought to myself “she’s just bitten me and I hoped the bugger was going elsewhere!”
Anyhow, we took one horse to Doncaster Sales and brought two back, one was Pippahmint Lass and the other was an unnamed 4 year old also by Sunyboy (who The Duke and his associates paid a lot of money for in the auction), who was a half brother of two time Scottish National winner Androma… and the 4 year old was later named Bigsun, who became a Cheltenham Festival winner.
… and after all of that and much more besides it was getting towards the end of the 1984/85 National Hunt season and by this time The Duke was glad to get his virus ridden horses out into the fields for some “Doctor Green!”
13/3/1985
Coral Golden Hurdle Final (Handicap)
Cheltenham Racecourse
Lawnswood Miss
Coral Golden Hurdle Final (Handicap)
Finished 21st / 30 ran
23/3/1985
Erbistock Handicap Hurdle
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Jungle Jim
Erbistock Handicap Hurdle
Finished 11 / 18 ran
Jungle Jim on the right in photo running in the orange/white/black colours of Salford Van Hire
28/3/1985
Whitbread Pale Ale Handicap Hurdle
Liverpool Aintree Racecourse
Lawnswood Miss
Whitbread Pale Ale Handicap Hurdle
Finished 19th / 21 ran
6/5/1985
Iron Bridge Handicap Chase
Ludlow Racecourse
Lulav
Iron Bridge Handicap Chase
Finished 2nd / 5 ran
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.
