Interview with Rachel Richardson

Rachel Richardson is a successful female Northern Jockey who is connected to Tim Easterby's yard, after becoming an apprentice in 2011. She has recently lost her 3 pound claim. Despite the difficulties female jockeys can come across especially being from the North, Rachel says this has not affected her career, describing herself as 'lucky' due to being attached to Tim's yard.

Originally Rachel was involved in show jumping and only converted to racing through a friends parent who was involved. From there she went to racing college and got the qualifications she needed. However, this wasn't always the case, before she became a jockey she was a model but gave it up due to her love of horses.

One of Rachel's biggest accomplishments is the recent victory riding out her claim and she hopes she can build on this momentum, gaining more rides and winners. Although she has had many trials and tribulations, some being recent and a serious incident which occurred in 2016 when riding at Beverley racecourse on Kung Hei Fat Choy who was fatally injured when he went through the railing which obviously had an impact and greatly saddened Rachel. Her resolve has been of vital importance to keep riding and to keep going.

Since this incident Rachel has clearly gone from strength to strength and can hopefully build on the success she has tasted. With her recent collection of winners and numerous places, this season will sure to be one of her more successful years. Rachel has obtained a 19% strike rate, I'm sure when the weight allowance permits it she will be treating herself to her cheeky treat of chocolate.