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.
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.
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
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.
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!
