Reasons to vote for Hollie Doyle for Sports Personality of the year

 Hollie Doyle has been nominated for BBC sports personality of the year and these are the reasons why you should vote for her tonight when the voting opens. You can vote by clicking here. I tipped Hollie Doyle on a previous blog to be one to watch this year. 

In the last year, despite Coronavirus Hollie Doyle has been breaking records. This season Doyle has had 146 winners, this exceeded her own record from the previous year. Additionally, these race wins include her first group one on Glen Shield, she had her first win for a female on Championship day, a Royal Ascot winner (only a few women have achieved this feat) and she had a five-timer at Windsor in August. Her wins are unmatched by any other female jockey.

Doyle has also put so much hard work into getting where she is today. She started off in pony racing riding a really unruly pony but has gone on to ride horses of all different calibres and win. While she was an apprentice she was told that she wasn't strong enough. Doyle took this and worked on it, to get to where she is today. When she's not riding winners, you will find her in the gym working on the fitness that gives her the winners.  

Hollie Doyle has done so much for the sport of horse racing, she's opened people's eyes that both genders can be equal in terms of riding winners. Also, she's encouraged other women to get involved in the sport and is inspiring by giving girls a role model. 

This year Doyle is the only female nominated, despite all of the women who are at the top level in sports. There is a lack of representation in Sports Personality of the Year of women, proven by the last female winner was 14 years ago being Zara Philips. Doyle is defying norms if she wins. 

These are my reasons why I think you should vote for Hollie Doyle- let me know if you have any other reasons. Vote tonight!

Nottingham Races

 A surprising journey to Nottingham races came from ditching going to university for the day. With some of the cracking races, it was well worth it. The race day had nine races, the first two being tricky as they were maiden races with the runners being two-year-olds. My highlight again went to Fantasy Master, who won by a length backing up his prior win on course. 

The second race had Ryan Moore win for Sir Michael Stoute. Noon Star the winner was very clearly going to triumph, the willingness to continue to fight back either to chase or to go on to lead. Ocean Road and Mrs Fitzherbert were big outsiders and slowly away, struggling to get into the race but once they found their feet were away and in the final stages showed promise. First place was Noon Star by 3 1/4 lengths, the second was Ocean Road by 1/2 length and third was Mrs Fitzherbert by 5 1/2 lengths. 

The listed race of the afternoon, the Rous Stakes saw the favourite take the glory. Wonderwork led the way initially in the sprint. With Dakota God, Alijady close up. He was tracked by Tis Marvellous and a lot of the horses were in the middle of the field- not having much impact. At four furlongs out Dakota Gold took over the lead, Wonderwork did give chase as did most of the field moving forward. With three furlongs to go Alijay was pushed along and went on strong. In this race, many of horses appeared to hang and struggle. Dakota Gold, in the end, could not be caught, he went to win by 3 1/2 lengths. Second Alijay was 1 3/4 lengths clear of third, who was Wonderwork by 3/4 lengths.  

Additionally, we must give Hollie Doyle a shout out as yet again, she's breaking records (this time however it's her own). In back to back years she has upped the record despite, the current Covid situation. The new record is 117 and I am sure this will be built on greatly. 

Nottingham races

 Yesterday I attended Nottingham Races for the first time this season, despite the lack of atmosphere and the true spirit behind racing it was not too bad. I had a really lucky day and picked a winner or a place in every race. The first two races were tricky as many were unraced and young horses. Only one favourite won on the day. 

The first race had an 80/1 shot under the unstoppable Tom Marquand win! Prospect led the race, chased by High Security, Harworth and Jennivere. There was a few dwelling at the start including Fantasy Master, Strangerontheshore and Rosa Bonheur. Fantasy Master struggled in the early stages and stumbled, having to be pushed at three furlongs on. At two furlongs out, Fantasy Master made headway as did High Security and Jacattack. At one furlong out, Fantasy Master stumbled again but Prospect was having to be pushed along. High Security and Harworth struggled for room if they had enough space next time they might be ones to watch. But it was Fantasy Master who managed to get the win by 1/2 length, the second was Prospect and third by 3/4 lengths was High Security. 

The 2.20 Inhaler was a little ahead of Jadwal with Mishal Star and Vedute tracking the leaders. Temple Bruer lacked for room but at two furlongs out when he had space he went on. Vedute and Muay Thai were running on strong with Bhubezi who went to lead. At one furlong out the lead changed again was briefly Vedute before Mishal Star took keen hold. Tempel Bruer tried to challenge, however, didn't have enough to compete. First place was Mishal Star by 1 1/2 lengths, the second was Temple Bruer by 2 3/4 lengths and third was Vedute by a neck. 

A new blog will be out soon, this will discuss how more and more jockey's keep testing for cocaine metabolites and the question mark over the outcome of Oisin Murphy in France. 

Ayr Racecourse

 On Monday it was my first time racing since January. And if anything I was apprehensive after hearing all the negative feedback about the racing experience. But I was pleasantly surprised by the experience and by the level of racing. 

On arrival there was the standard procedure: the questionnaire answered, temperature checked and ID checked. Mask to be worn in communal areas and plenty of sanitiser. However, as far as I'm concerned Ayr racecourse has it right. Open spaces used effectively, the bar open enabling drinks to be flowing like a normal race day, the tote and two other bookmakers on course. And hot food available for racing staff and owners from a burger van which had delicious chips. These are all helping to bring the experience back to normal and for the better. The only thing that I could criticise is that racecourses the size of Ayr they could easily have all owners back and racing. Thus further taking steps to get racing back to normal. 

The 3.10 had a close race yet in the midsized field many weren't really involved. Bumbledom was first to lead, tracked by Destination Aim and Al Mansoura. Close up was Equidae and Sienna Dream. The rest of the field were never better than midfield. At two furlong out Equidae took on the lead as Al Mansoura was switched and pushed along. Sienna Dream and Jessie Allan were ridden out. There was to be no catching of the first to as Equidae and Al Mansoura went head to head. But Equidae won this battle by only a neck. The second was Al Mansoura by 1 length and third was Sienna Dream. 

The 4.50 had an unsurprising result with an unexpected ban. Taramanda led the race, followed by Shanghai City and Manzo Duro with Tiritomba sat midfield. These positions were like this until three furlongs out where Ricksen made good headway as did Manzo Duro. Two furlongs to go Tiritomba didn't have a clear run as Ricksen led, followed by Manzo Duro. At one furlong out Tiritomba was switched out and clipped heels with Ricksen. This hampered Ricksen. Although Tiritomba went on to win by 2 1/4 lengths, the second was Ricksen by 3 3/4 lengths and third was Manzo Duro by a nose. 

Oisin Murphy, who rode Tiritomba, due to this dangerous riding when he clipped heels means that a careless riding ban will be implemented on the Ledger week at Doncaster. He has a seven-day ban so that means that he will miss the entire meeting. Although, he has suggested that he might contest this and appeal. 

Hopefully, my next blog will be soon, keep up to date with my twitter! 

Racing round up!

This is this weeks racing round up! We have lots of exciting news about jockeys and a look at some of the best moments from Glorious Goodwood and the gorgeous Enable.  

There has been exciting news for Lizzie Kelly as she retires from racing. This comes as she announces her pregnancy. Lizzie Kelly has been a record-breaker within the sport being the first female jockey to win grade One Jumps race. She has paved the way for other female future jockeys and the sport is grateful for this. 

We had another retirement announcement from the jump jockey Barry Geraghty. He has a list of success next to his name which includes 1920 wins and the second most successful jockey at Cheltenham Festival. Additionally, this announcement comes after the prior 18 months being littered with injuries. There's nothing but best wishes to both Lizzie and Barry. 

Hollie Doyle just keeps on improving on her recent form. Now she has signed a retainer with the owner and breeder Imad Al Sagar. He has over 30 horses in training and this now gives Hollie an even bigger platform to show her talent. It's very exciting to see what this new partnership brings. 

Tuesday at Goodwood saw an amazing Stradivarius. This just showed the level of class the horse has. After being continuously blocked and not getting a gap, there was a point in the race where I thought he's not going to do it. But Frankie Dettori stayed calm and was patient. Frankie switched him one furlong out and went on well towards the end to win by a length to second Nayef Road. 

On Wednesday, at Goodwood in the Qatar Sussex Stakes had some of the best horses running. There were lots of short odds and a massive question over whether Mohaather, Siskin or Kameko would win. With an early lead from Kameko, it looked as though he would dictate the race. However, this was not the case as Mohaather despite struggling for room, when he got switched and ran on well towards the final furlongs. The surprise Circus Maximus challenging him. Siskin although, I found fell rather flat in the closing stages. The winner was Mohaather, second Circus Maximus, third was Siskin, fourth was Kameko. 

Battaash on Friday again had the miracle happen. After racing freely he went on to led and was pushed inside the final few furlongs. He kept on well beating Glass Slippers into second by 2 1/4 lengths. This race also saw him winning the King George Qatar Stakes for the fourth year running. Additionally, he broke the track record with 55.62 seconds. Meaning Battaash is only improving as he set the previous course record a mere 12 months ago. 

A couple of Saturday's ago at Ascot in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes we saw the incredible Enable. Sovereign had the lead going 6 lengths clear being tracked by Enable and Japan. Sovereign was tiring slightly. But Enable was going strong. But Japan weakened inside the final furlong whereas Enable was well clear and gaining momentum. First was Enable, second Sovereign, third Japan. 

 This is the latest blog with my highlights of the past few weeks! What were your highlights? 

My open letter to the British Horseracing Authority

After talking to some owners and trainers all I'm hearing since owners have been allowed back is complaints. They understand that these are the steps that need to occur for getting back to normal but the situation is far from perfect.

To get racing you have to jump through numerous hoops. Including: at least one member of the party filling out the Coronavirus protocol; inform the racecourse and make sure all your details and the other person you attend with are on the list to be let in. These, however, are understandable.

Then when you get to the racecourse it is largely common sense social distancing and having your temperature taken. Yet you're only allowed to be there a minimum 45 minutes before and an hour after your race. Surely, with all the space on a racecourse which is more than adequate for social distancing, there could be a full day made of the races for the owners.

These people are the backbone of racing and aren't being treated correctly. As one Twitter user Kaz, said: "As an owner why would you want to go racing if you can’t access parade ring or winners enclosure? Might as well stay at home. Owners are funding the sport and this is how they’re treated."
Owners can't even properly debrief with the jockey and yet the BHA are scratching their head as to why more owners don't partake.

Furthermore, no facilities including bars and restaurants are open which are a quintessential part of racing. This can easily be done on any scale by allowing a table to be allocated to each owner with social distancing and having plenty of staff on hand. One owner Mrs Sarah Bryan said: " They have all your details and know how many people are doing but yet they can't let people stay for longer or open any of the facilities."

I think that the idea for Goodwood allowing the public in is ghastly. The owners who have been paying their bills, kept their horses in training and supporting stables from afar are simply being neglected. If this does not change I struggle to see anyone who will buy new horses or continue pumping money into the sport.

Until the BHA sort out a plan of action I can't see the point of going racing, for many owners, this isn't the atmosphere they expect. Gone are the nice days out and the memories from my childhood of screaming horse home and taking selfies with jockeys. This is slowly becoming less like the sport that so many love.

Racing round up

There's been an awfully busy couple of weeks for us to look back on. Especially now racings back in Scotland too. Here are some of the best moments and the questionable ones too.

Leicester races going ahead on Wednesday evening faced some controversy. Personally, I think it was an awful decision. As racing already faced much backlash for Cheltenham going ahead. I was not alone in this with trainer Nikki Evans saying: "Is racing at Leicester today a really good idea in the light of new cases, and a lockdown?" Also, people saying they couldn't see how this was essential travel. The BHA has done a great job of keeping the whole industry safe, I hope this was the right decision.

It was announced earlier this week that owners would be allowed back racing from the 4 July. With only two from each horse, their temperatures being checked and time limiters of how long you can be on course. There's another list of requirements from the BHA which can be found on their website. But I myself struggle to see the point as the atmosphere is not the same so will not be partaking in this. However, it is a step in the right direction to get resumption of normal racing back.

The race for champion jockey has started off close this year with reigning champ Oisin Murphy having a narrow lead of three wins over Ben Curtis. The third-place currently is Tom Marquand with 26 wins. This should make for an interesting competition this year. I'm hoping that Hollie Doyle will finish near the top of the leader board. Her talent simply is up there with the best of the best. It'll be interesting to see which new young talent is prominent in the Champion Apprentice race.

Another recent ruling from the BHA was that jockeys do not have to wear face masks during the race. I'm sure this was well received from the jockeys as they were having issues with the goggles steaming and some having trouble breathing.

Jumps are back! And with this came some shocks at Southwell with Olly Murphy having a four-timer. He thanked his staff for their continuous hard work. But the first race win went to Harry Cobden on Nineohtwooneoh. This was an easy 10 length win and a nice welcome back for the jumps.

The INCREDIBLE Hollie Doyle needs a further mention for her Thursday night feat. Wherefrom six rides, she had FOUR, yes four winners and two seconds. She's simply on fire and I hope this momentum keeps going for her.

Additionally, what a weekend we have upcoming with the Epsom Derby, the Oaks as well as the French derby and oaks and the Eclipse. Let's see what the best horses provide including Enable. Also, let's see what some of the jockeys who haven't ridden in these races before like Harry Bentley and Ben Curtis are capable of and if they can handle the pressure.

Sabine Crowe's 5 horses to watch this season

In a prior blog I did an interview with Sabine Crowe- travelling head lass at Declan Carroll's stable. These are the horse's Sabine would watch from his yard.

1) Jus Pires- He's believed to be well handicapped and a recent wind op has only accentuated his ability. The gelding has had 3 winners from 13 runs and numerous placings too. The majority of his best runs have come on all-weather but he's versatile.

2) Tweet Tweet- She's currently an unraced filly with an alleged fast turn of foot. Sabine says she's "lightning quick". There's a big hope with will translate on to the track. This two-year-old is still not had any entries as of yet. Maybe one to put in your tracker.

3) Trinity Lake- in the best fitness of his life. This full brother to Titus a Sky Bet handicap winner which Declan also trainer won first time out last season. But seemed to peter off, there's a belief that this will transform. The bay gelding likes good and soft ground so as of yet has run once and looked better for the run. I was impressed with the transformation I saw within the horse.

4) Sommer Katz- Undeniable form 2 wins and one second. The gelding has the official rating of 75 and there's hope that this will allow room for improvement. This Frank Gillespie owned bay has not yet been raced this year. But the turn of pace shown and the level of success suggests that this horse could be an interesting one this year.

5) Rock Sound- He's raring to go already building on his form from last season. The Lope De Vega gelding has great form since going to Declan's yard being placed in every run. It will be interesting to see if this all-weather form transfers onto the turf and see what the plan for this talented horse is.

An extra horse to watch is Music Seeker. This York winner is a favourite of Sabine's and he's in great form which was shown by his first run back this season being a narrow second. He has consistent form and always tries.

Additionally, Declan has an incredible strike rate with two-year-olds and any of these should not be discredited. Over the past five years on the turf with two-year-olds, he has a 15% strike rate. This is impressive considering the number of horses he has and they have gone on to win some big races. For example, Santry who won two competitive races at Doncaster and York and a close second at Ascot.

Royal Ascot Round up!

There were some amazing moments from Ascot this year. These are some of the most prominent in my opinion.

 Hollie Doyle her first Royal Ascot winner. She's made history by doing so being the 3rd ever female jockey to have a winner here. Hollie continues to break records and build on her success of last season mentioned in my prior blog which can be found here. She gave Scarlet Dragon a hell of a ride by weaving her way through the field and having a strong finish . Her strength significantly helped her. This followed the success of the day before of Hayler Turner who replicated last year again in the Sandringham Stake on the 33/1 Onassis for Charlie Fellows.

 Frankie Dettori and Ryan Moore have additionally made history having their 70th and 60th Royal Ascot winner. Also, Frankie has now won every single group one winner at Royal Ascot showing how much of an exceptional jockey he is. Frankie's 70th was on the penultimate day on Fanny Logan in the Hardwicke Stakes while Ryan's happened on Russian Emperor in the Hamton Court Stakes. They both rode well all week and these just show why they are two of the best jockeys in the country.

 Jim Crowley had six winners which is amazing in itself. These were all ridden exceptionally, he read the race well. These winners came from the outsider Motakhayyel, Battaash, Nazeef, Hukum, Molatham, Khaloosy. They were all owned by Hamdam Al Maktoum. He has a very impressive string of horses making it appear like they hadn't had any time off at all.

Battaash was one of Crowley's winners. I wasn't sure about this horse, it seemed like a big ask. The favourite made all and went on to win easily. His turn of pace has largely been exciting and we got to see this again. He went clear and won by 2 1/4 lengths.

The Queen had her first winner at Royal Ascot for FOUR years which is incredible. Tactical under James Doyle rode this winner in complete and utter style.

 John Gosden was one of my top trainers of all time and I wasn't wrong. He was this year leading trainer of Royal Ascot with six winners including Frankly Darling, Nazzef, Lord North, Stradivarius, Fanny Logan and Palace Pier. For me Stradivarius was one of the best wins of the entire meeting, winning in such ease by moving through the field and just accelerating away. He went on to win by 10 lengths making it his third Gold Cup win. Simply incredible.

Another surprise from the jockeys was Kevin Stott. He managed to ride a double on the final day in tremendous style. These came from Hello Youmzain and Hey Jonesy. This was a big day in his career and I'm sure he will just continue with this momentum.

 I could have mentioned so many more moments. What would be your best moment of the week?

My looks for royal ascot

These are the looks I would have picked for each day if the public could attend. When picking outfits for Royal Ascot please check their website for dress code as outfits I would have worn wasn't allowed due to the strict rules. I'm a huge fan of two pieces/co-ords but midriff isn't permitted. Other dress code rules are no narrow straps or off the shoulders including Bardot tops.

I'm a big believer of wear what you want and what feels comfortable so this is what I would have worn. I kept my nails rather neutral so they would go with anything that I would have worn but again this is up to the individual like with makeup too. I would have my makeup subtle with big lashes and a nice lipstick that works with my skin tone.

First day outfit 

My first-day outfit is a predominantly black jumpsuit with a pop of colour down the front. I paired this with a pair of black heels, a matching hat and bag. I'm a big fan of wearing black clothes I think it really suits my skin tone but by having the dash of red it makes it a bit different. I would wear this with gold accessories. I went for gold hoops which in my opinion make any outfit and a simple gold

necklace as the front was rather lowcut.

Second day outfit 

My second-day outfit is A little black dress with white detailing. You can't go wrong with a monochrome moment. I wore this with silver accessories, including a clutch and shoes. I would always wear heels but this is up to the individual. To me, heels brings an extra touch of class where flats wouldn't. Again a hat is necessary. Due to the top of this dress, I don't think a necklace is needed but I would have long-ish dangly earrings.

Ladies day outfit 

My third-day outfit is: Ladies day means all the best outfits will be out, the most extravagant hats and dresses for the best-dressed competition will be seen. This dress is more floaty and airy. The burgundy colour is one of my favourites and slightly unusual. This again gives a change of silhouette throughout the week, giving some variation to the looks that you have. This I would wear gold accessories with a hat to match shoes. this time I went for a strappy heeled sandal type shoe. I would pick simple stud earrings and a delicate necklace.

Fourth day outfit 

My penultimate day outfit is a simple blue dress which flatters my skin tone. The top has a slight decoration with some delicate lace. This would be worn with gold accessories including the strappy sandals and a gold clutch. However, this could be worn with various coloured shoes, bags and hats including cream, black, blue and silver. The choice is up to the individual. I think the silhouette of this dress is classy and suits most people.

Final day outfit 

My final day outfit is A emerald green ruched dress, I love this dress I think it suits my figure. I paired this with gold jewellery and black shoes but again a variety of colours would work. The black lace-up shoes matched with the little black handbag. Ruched dresses are very popular at the moment as they flatter all figures and are very diverse.

The next blog will be coming soon keep an eye on my Twitter and Instagram!

Successful jockeys' since racing has returned

A few jockeys have done very well since racing has commenced behind closed doors. Here are some of the more memorable moments so far...

Cieren Fallon's group 3 win on Oxted in the Betway Abernant Stakes saw him following in his father's footsteps. The champion apprentice jockey gave the horse a safe but smart ride keeping clear of the rest of the field. Then as the field opened he was sat second and came through and the other horses easily. Fallon kept Oxted on despite the rallying second place of Breathtaking Look. This has put him in a great position to keep improving from for the whole of the season.

The 2000 Guineas did have some surprises. Initially, it was a shock after Pinatubo didn't win and came third. But the win went to Kameko and Oisin Murphy's first guineas triumph. This excellent ride and the win made the Champion Jockey very emotional as this was his first classic win. I'm sure there will be many more classic wins to come.

Richard Kingscote had a four-timer at Haydock Park. It was 9593-1, making this feat nearly unpredictable all but to 1 punter in Ireland who won 18,000 euros on this. The four-timer with the horses Lauded, Brad The Brief, Ishvara and Shady McCoy. Kingscote himself was shocked by this and attributed the victory of these to the tough horses with good ability or attitude.

There's a fair few other jockeys who are flying at the minute these include Hollie Doyle, Ben Curtis and Tom Marquand. Let's see what other jockeys highlight their talents in the following weeks.

My top 5 trainers of all time

With racing back and behind closed doors this will give you an insight into which trainers in the UK I think are the best and why. Here’s the top 5:

1) Sir Henry Cecil undoubtedly one of the best trainers of all time his death in 2013 had had a serious impact on racing. Some of the best horses he trained included Noble Mission, Frankel and Camacho. The ten-time champion trainer also had 25 UK classic wins under his belt. Despite some struggles personally and sometimes with the horses he never did badly in terms of racing.

2) John Gosden- his best trainer horses have often been mentioned before in other blogs like Stradivarius, enable, Nathaniel and roaring lion. He’s known for his straight-talking interviews and this year alone from 48 runners he’s already collected over £160,000 in prize money.  His worldwide success just adds to the 40 wins he’s had at royal ascot.

3) Mark Johnston- with an incredible string of horses that have had the very unlucky Dee Ex Bee, Sharmadal and Attraction. He is the most successful British flat trainer of all time with 4,194 winners in 2018. This total continues to rise. Additionally, last year he earnt over £5million in prize money.

4) Jimmy Fitzgerald- is perhaps one of the less known significant trainers but he is very much missed. His horses are most known for over the jumps where he saddled over 1,200 winners in his career. Forgive n’ Forget probably was the greatest for his trainer career. But the success was clear from the early stages of training when he had a winner with the second horse he ever trained.

5) Aidan O’Brien- has trained some of the biggest names in racing such as Henrythenavigator, Galileo and Camelot. He has a long list of credentials next to his name including Champion Irish National Hunt for six years running. In 2001 he was the England Champion trainer, the first Irishman to do this since 1971. O’Brien is also an 11-time Irish derby winning trainer and 8-time Irish 1000 Guineas winner. These make it near impossible to find a better trainer than him.

That’s my top trainers' list who would be on yours?

5 best jockeys all time

Again due to the limited racing I looked back through the archives to find some of the best UK jockeys here's my list:

1) Frankie Dettori - has ridden some of the most well-known horses in the world including Enable, Stradivarius, Cracksman and Poet's Voice. One of the most famous flat jockeys despite his past problems. In 2019 he had a strike rate of 26% which is insanely successful. Dettori has had winners all around the world and ridden winners in more than 500 group races. An unforgettable moment was the magnificent seven in 1996.

2) A P McCoy- An incredible jump jockey he even has a horse named after him "Champ". His strike rate in his final year of riding in 2015 was 28%. He had 31 festival wins which is an unbelievable number. An unmatchable feat that he achieved was well over 4000 winners and 20 consecutive wins. These show why he is undeniably one of the best jump jockeys.

3) Kieren Fallon- After his slow start to his career and again he faced various issues surrounding his weight and substance abuse his career was somewhat fragmented. A few of the horses that he's ridden are Gabrial, Hoof It, Yeats and Footsteps In The Sand. Yet these troubles didn't stop him achieving a multiple time 1000 and 2000 guineas winners and 6-time champion jockey. But this is clearly a controversial especially because of his behaviour, personally, I think his achievements outweigh these.

4) Richard Johnson- The four-time champion jump jockey and over 3500 winners, these put him in a league of his own. Some of the most memorable horses he's ridden are Native River, Florida Pearl and Looks Like Trouble. He's said to be a little unlucky as he a ridden in the Grand National 21 times but has never ridden a winner in this.

5) Ruby Walsh- He is another widely famous retired jump jockey. His strike rate rarely dropped below 20%. The statistics that he produced were crazy including the leading jockey at Cheltenham Festival eleven times, Irish National Hunt jockey twelve times and won the English Grand National in 2000 at the first time of trying.

Another jockey from the time vault would be Lester Piggot. His success was groundbreaking and he largely revolutionised riding style. He rode nearly 4500 winners, champion jockey 11 times. In my opinion, the most amazing fact is he won his first race when he was 12 years old. He additionally had multiple big race wins with some of the horses like Sir Ivor, The Ministrel and Roberto.

Well, there's my top 5 what do you think? Give me some of your suggestions in the comments below!

Behind the scenes of racing: an interview with a travelling head girl

“It’s mental in the summer, you’re doing at least 20 hours a day, at least three days a week.”

Sabine Crowe (22 years old) is travelling head girl at Declan Carroll’s Malton based stable. She explains the daily challenges especially in the height of the season. “We normally start at five or six. If we have five runners here, there and everywhere we need more than one person to go racing.”

Often the stable staff have started at all hours in the morning so she can get the stables done and ride out before she goes racing.

Despite the hard physical and mental aspects of her job, Sabine loves it.

In the summer there’s no time to rest and like the other 6,000 people that racing employs she doesn’t have time to think until the season ends. She explains the everyday work, her love clear in the rapid nature of her voice, a Yorkshire accent creeping though.

“In the winter I have time to think OMG get me out of here. You’re literally out there 20 minutes each time getting drenched multiple times a day.” These mornings make the rows of stables seem dark and dreary with little shelter. “Even wearing waterproofs and jodhpurs aren’t enough.

“Today I got up about six, got ready and went to work for seven. We get in, get our tack and get started straight away.”

There are three horses immediately taken to the walker. Dec her boss tells Sabine what to ride and she starts riding out. If she doesn’t ride out a lot, she mucks out stables. Sabine normally rides out five lots of horses. The first part of her day finished by 12.30.

Sabine goes about all her tasks with a smile on her face and her long brown pony tail swaying as she does her work.

By the look of concentration on her face it’s a difficult question to answer what she would change. After a long pause a small smirk appears as she replied: “The outdoor ring covering. That would be amazing. The worst thing is, you can have all the waterproofs on in the world and you can go outside and get p****ed on and then you’re wet the for the rest of the day.”

This is the price Sabine pays for doing the job she adores.

Finally, for her last task of the day she returns to the yard about half past four for the evening feed and feels lucky if that’s finished by half five. This rushing is a normal part of her life.

Sabine shows me the photos of the winners she’s led up that adorn the walls of her room. The passion and pride for her job that she’s been involved is filling her face and her blue eyes widening.

Despite the dedication to her job, it wasn’t always the plan to get involved in racing. As with many she started riding young about four or five but was doing a business apprenticeship at an office. “Funny story, Di (Declan Carroll’s wife) had Green Park up at the stables where I had my horse and she’d seen me ride and said if you can sit him you can easily sit on ours.”

And so, she did. First doing weekends while continuing the apprenticeship, working seven days a week. Three years ago, where she used to work let everyone go and she’s never looked back.

Last year alone she did 50,000 miles… yes 50! Her forehead crumples calculating it. She agrees: “I know it seems crazy but it’s only me that really drives the horsebox.”

With all this travelling Sabine’s had some amazing memories. She offers up two. There’s a soft smile on her face. “The best is … leading Justanotherbottle up when he was second in the Steward’s Cup just beaten a short head.

“The other one was Music winning at York because I do everything with him. I ride him, bring him up and it’s a surreal moment having a horse you do everything with winning at York. It’s a big thing.”

That day she admits bawling like a baby and in shock and overcome with emotion. Even talking about it now her eyes glisten.

But with these highs come the lows. The worst part of the job is the injuries and having to put horses down.

Her tone is sombre as she recalls the horses that have been loved and lost including the stable stars Santry and Crazy World. Her voice wavers. “It was horrible.”

However, Sabine has the support of the other staff and her boss Declan Carroll, who she considers one of the most influential people on her career.

“Dec’s quite inspirational although he is hard on you. He doesn’t hold a grudge and knows people mess up, and as much as you put in for him, he’ll put it back.”

Another influential person has been Carole Easton. She was travelling head lass for Tim Easterby for 30 years and now works in transporting. All this experience means Sabine has been able to learn from her.  

These people behind the scenes are vital to the sport.

“People think sitting on a horse is easy, the horse does it all. Driving everywhere is as easy as anything. But it takes a toll on you. The horses mean everything. Every horse has a soft spot in everyone’s hearts. No one ever wants to see a horse hurt. We don’t see them just as a business.”

Sabine leading in Music Seeker at York 

5 races to re-watch while self isolating

Because there is no racing I didn't know what to do with my time, so I decided to re-watch some of the greatest races. 

It wasn't easy but here's my top 5 races...

1) Red Rum- All three of his Grand National victories were goose bump invokers and history makers. Personally the 1973 is my favourite. The key to his wins were staying wide in the field. Crisp was about 20 lengths clear seemingly not going to be beaten. Red Rum was second. Both well clear of the rest of the field. And just before the line Red Rum manages to catch Crisp to narrowly get the win. From that moment you know he's something special. 

2)  Frankel- The unbeaten 14 timer on British soil. Any of his races would be worth a watch but especially the 2000 Guineas. With no pace makers and going to the front we can see the full ability of Frankel. He easily went clear and keeps extending the lead. Other horses not even having a chance of winning. Another one of my favourites is the Juddemonte international. 

3) Tiger Roll- His 2018 Grand National win.  Hearts in mouths as he approached the final few jumps. There were fallers all over. He managed to stay up and in that moment alone I knew he'd win. The first double Grand National winner since Red Rum in 1973/74.

4)  Frodon- I have a massive soft spot for this horse. His effort in the Ryanair chase at Cheltenham last year is one of racing's unforgettable memories. After leading near enough whole way it looked like Aso would beat him. However, Frodon refused to give up after jumping well throughout. Realistically he should never have won that class of race but it makes him more loveable. Jockey Bryony Frost's interview after is also one that will always stick in my mind. 

5) Enable- Controversial I know because of the failings in the Arc.  I believe she's one of the best horses today despite her failings in the Arc. She's versatile in her running making her even more of a threat. Her performance in the King George VI and Queen Anne Stakes 2019, with her pace and battling against Crystal Ocean was simply breath-taking. 

Here some of my favourites. What are yours? 

How will coronavirus Impact racing?

We had the sad update that racing would be cancelled earlier this week.

After firstly saying it would take place behind closed door due to coronavirus. Realistically this is for the best. Just a shame especially with the big meetings coming up.

Irish racing first announced that they'd be racing behind closed doors, the first meeting being Dundalk. The images from the racecourse make it look like a ghost town. This was followed by Kelso. It was thought that all racing would go to be like this; instead it has been closed down.

It's uncertain as to when this will be lifted. These closures came after the rumour mill saying there was hope for the Lincoln meeting, the start of the flat and one of the biggest days of the calendar. Even if it's not open for the mass public, each owner would have reportedly receive one badge per horse instead of the normal complimentary six.

A bigger blow was the Grand National being cancelled. This much anticipated meeting due to the sheer number of tickets sold isn't happening. People all had the same question on the tip of their tongues: will Tiger Roll complete the treble. Gordon Elliot has however said it's more than likely he will come back next year.

The impact of the coronavirus on racing has suffered a big backlash as not only are caterers losing money. The bigger chains of bookmakers can take the hit but there's much concern for independent old style bookmakers with their stands, as without punters there will be economic issues. There are serious worries for the people in the yards as they simply have to turn up to work to look after the horses. The horses also are raring to go but can't.

This is a very uncertain time for everyone, even those who aren't in the industry. We can only hope that racing will return as soon as it's safe to. Ireland are still continuing behind closed doors giving us racing enthusiasts some rest bite. 

Cheltenham Festival 2020 guide

Cheltenham Festival is one of the highlights of the jump season, with so much to see, the unique fashion, the electric atmosphere and most importantly the racing. Here's your quick 'Chelts' 2020 guide.

Cheltenham has got so many different enclosures and areas it can be difficult to find your way around. One of the most popular is the Guinness Village and in my eyes this is a must see. The great atmosphere and the friendliness means everyone's encouraged to get involved. 

Even if you don't like racing that much there's so much to do and see, including more than 70 stalls to explore in the shopping village. 

New for 2020 is The Park: all the live music and DJ sets will take place. The big names include Nick Grimshaw, Laura Whitmore, Roman Kemp and Marvin Humes. These will all be doing sets after racing and gives the atmosphere another level. Keeping the buzz going. 

These little touches all make the day an experience not just an event. 

This year as usual tweed will be a staple part of the Cheltenham festival fashion but it will be straying from tradion with pops of colourful tweed. Colourful fur and feathers will also be core elements. Men will sway more towards the Peaky Blinders look, flat caps prominent. Here's just a reminder that fancy dress isn't encouraged especially not on St. Patrick's day. 

The Chelts roar will set the level of excitement for the whole four days of racing. This is leading up to the Gold Cup. It'll be interesting to see how Tiger Roll fares in the Glenfarclas Chase (cross country chase) as the last 2 years he's won this, he's gone on to win the Grand national.

The Gold Cup is wide open. The withdrawing of Native River through injury means a significant contender has been lost. There's many horses that have a chance. These include last year's winner Al Boum Photo. He won't give up the title easily.

Other horses with recent form include Lostintranslation , Frodon and Santini. With the latter opening up as the early odds favourite. However, the Irish raiders like Kemboy and Delta Work must also be watched with their undeniable form.

With my head I'll be backing Santini but my heart will be backing Frodon. 

Let's hope that we can actually see the racing and Coronavirus doesn't stop it.

Bryan's Horses racing blog round up (end of January/begining of February)

This racing blog round up we are seeing the building success of the jockeys mentioned in the last blog especially Ben Curtis. There's also discussion of Hollie Doyle's unstoppable form, breeding and Jumps controversy.

Laurens has been covered by Invincible spirit, this sees the hopes of a thoroughly well bred foal with some unarguable form from both sire and dam. Racing can be hopeful that we do see this horse on the track. However Laurens was also strangely dropped a pound by the handicappers earlier this week which most likely was by mistake. Perhaps it's trying to tempt her back into racing. 

Hollie Doyle is on fire with all these trebles she's having its making it difficult to back against her in any race. She's building on the success of last season riding the most winners in a season for a female jockey. It looks like she will be again trying to extend the record that she beat of over 107 winners in a season. Clearly one to keep an eye on. Similarly Ben Curtis is still under unstoppable form even extending his wins to further afield, being victorious at Meydan Races. 

Tiger Roll has its third entry in the Grand National. This is exciting news for Grand National day if he does go on to run. Winning this would make him even more of a racing legend and he would have firmly cemented his place in racing history. I personally think that he can take on the challenge and he has already put himself up there with Red Rum, so there is nothing to loose. 

There is also the hope from Paddy Brennan that gum shields should be made compulsory for jumps racing. He believes it is vital for the safety of the jockeys. Even saying 'it can save lives', he believes it should be repeatedly talked about until its mandatory. Brennan will continue to reach out to the BHA. 

Southwell Races

2020s  first blog from Southwell races. The meeting was not over busy with small fields making
it difficult to pick winners. This meeting also continued to see Ben Curtis' successful streak with him having a double. My one horse to watch for the rest of the season is the new comer Iron Heart,
the horse didn't like the kickback from the fibre sand but despite this still managed to finish third. Another impressive performance was Silverturnstogold who had its four-timer under Elisha Whittington and Tony Carroll. However Whittington got suspended for excessive use of the whip, what do you think about this? Should they be disqualified from the race?

The 2:20 had Angel Lane leading with Argus and Rasaasy close up. Blowing Dixie and Cosmelli were both held up in the rear. At five furlongs out Cosmelli made headway getting involved in the race. Four furlongs out had Argus and Rasaasy being pushed along, the latter was quickly outpaced. Blowing Dixie made nice headway at three furlongs out whilst the leader Angel Lane needed to be pushed along. The challenge between the two was clear at two furlongs out. Cosmelli and the rest of the field were slowly dropping away. At one furlong out Blowing Dixie was the undisputed leader and was smoothly ridden clear. Angel Lane became one paced. First was Blowing Dixie by 4 3/4 lengths, second was Angel Lane by 3 1/2 lengths and third was Cosmelli by 3 1/4 lengths. This showed how stretched out the field was.

The penultimate race had Jungle Secret with a slight lead to Requited, Our Charlie Brown, The Right Choice and Al Suil Eile. Global Melody was held up. There was not much room between the whole field. Global Melody on the home straight make headway. At three furlong out Requited, Jungle Secret and Global Hope were ridden along. With two furlongs to go Al Suil Eile and Our Charlie Brown made ground up. The Right Choice was ridden to challenge. Into the final furlong it was a three way battle between Al Suil Eile, Global Melody and The Right Choice all close together. All heading each other at some point. Global Melody however was on the stands side rail but in the final stages did not have enough pace to keep up with Al Suil Eile. First was Al Suil Eile by 3/4 length, second was The Right Choice by 1/2 length and third was Global Melody by 3 lengths.

New for 2020!

There's going to be a new aspect to Bryan's Horseracing Blog's especially for 2020! I will be discussing jockeys I think are doing particularly well, horses for note and anything controversial that has a risen that will have a big impact on the industry.

So the biggest talking point for me right now is the fact that Donnacha O'Brien has his first entries as a trainer for Friday at Dundalk. The two horses are Mythological and Flower Garland, both are owned by his mother and were previously trained by his father. He should know how to get the best out of both of them as he has ridden both before. Hopefully Donnacha's success as a jockey can be transferred to training.

There are numerous hot jockeys as the moment the most undisputable is Ben Curtis. Curtis since the new year has had 11 winners and it is less likely he has been unplaced. He is building on his success from last season much like Luke Morris and Adam Kirby. Luke Morris well know for being an all weather specialist has had 6 wins since the new year, continuing building momentum. His four timer on 2nd January highlights his success. Adam Kirby also has a 13% strike rate. They are showing already that the all-weather championships will be close.

Additionally conditional jump jockey Jack Tudor has caught the eye with his recent successes. The most notable being the welsh grand national. Clearly one to watch in the future as he is only 17.

Hopefully the next blog will be from Sunday's racing at Southwell.