ALTHOUGH a freak accident ended my own dreams of making it as a top jockey, I am now working with the next generation, in the hope that some may succeed where I was less fortunate. Since being forced to retire prematurely from race-riding in 2002, I have remained actively involved in the sport and recently qualified as a jockey’s coach.

Horses were never a part of my life growing up and it was not until secondary school that I became interested. I remember reading a leaflet that had been dropped in by RACE and immediately I was drawn to it. In all honestly I was never very dedicated to my studies and for the first time, I saw another avenue that I could pursue in life. Having filled out the relevant application forms I was invited for a two week trial and subsequently gained a place on the 10 month apprentice training course.