the – Page 2 – Richard Bevan Horse Racing

My First Day at Cotswold House Racing Stables

Beginning My Journey in Racing

Monday, September 10th, 1984, marks a significant turning point in my life. It was the day I started working for David Nicholson, fondly known as ‘The Duke,’ at Cotswold House Racing Stables in Condicote. My parents, eager to see me embark on this exciting venture, had me at the stables bright and early, around 6:30 am.

My First Ride and Route

The first horse I rode was Broadheath, who would later in the season move to trainer David Barons.

Our initial task that day was to embark on roadwork around a picturesque route known as the Swells Triangle. The route was about 7 miles long and filled with stunning views of Cotswold countryside.

The Swells Triangle: A Scenic Route

The journey began in Condicote taking the road towards Upper Swell / Stow-on-the-Wold

Then, passing by Waterhead Barn and ascending the hill we made a sharp right turn into a lane that ran over the River Dikler.

After heading over the river, we connected with the B4077

Taking a left, followed by a right and made our way through Upper Swell

We traversed along the country lane towards Lower Swell

Then turned right in Lower Swell (the triangular-shaped village green was on our left) and headed off along the Chalk Hill Road

Our route eventually led to a triangle in the road, where we made another right turn…

Back to Condicote

This was a route I would come to cherish during my time at the stables, offering both beauty and a sense of freedom that only the countryside can provide.

Where it says Cheltenham on the map its nowhere near Cheltenham, its the second triangle (the turning for Condicote) and its google maps which added the label.

Horse Racing

Remembering ‘The Winter Kings’ by Ivor Herbert: A Personal Reflection

Introduction to ‘The Winter Kings’

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.