JOSH Halford rode a winner over jumps in Sweden last weekend on what was his first race-ride outside Ireland. The hurdle race was part of the Fegentri series for European amateur riders.

“Patrick Mullins selected me to do it,” Josh told us. “The weights are light and you have to have ridden at least five winners, so it can be hard to get lads that can take part. I missed the first leg of the series in Pisa through suspension but now I’m in second place behind Elliot Ohgren so I will try to ride in as many races as I can.”

Last Sunday’s race was run at Stromsholm, just before the Swedish Grand National, but there were only four runners in Josh’s race. “There were plenty more riders available but not enough horses, so I was lucky to get one,” he said. “The race was over two and a quarter miles and we jumped Easyfix hurdles. My horse had won a bumper at the track previously. The trainer told me to make good use of him, so I rode him prominently, we went a good gallop and he stayed going.”

All of Josh’s expenses were taken care of and he had a great time. “It’s very sociable. There was a dinner the night before and a party after racing. They really looked after us well. I would encourage anyone to do it if they get the chance.”

Josh is based with Gordon Elliott and also rides out for Enda Bolger once a week. He is also still enjoying his show jumping, having ridden on Irish junior show jumping teams in the past.