‘A huge buzz with no pressure’
BEING crammed into a small metal startingstall, sitting on what is essentially an unexploded bomb waiting for the off, would be a fairly heartthumping experience for most of us. Perhaps circling at the start of the Pardubice or the Grand National would get the pulse rate high enough to fulfil most adrenaline junkies’ aspirations. However, for many jockeys this is not quite enough of a thrill, and so they seek other avenues to attain the hit.
We usually see those slender little chaps with bodies of wire and balls of steel wearing a myriad of bright silk colours and paper-thin breeches. Occasionally, though, if you are lucky, you will get a glimpse of them crossing the country behind a pack of hounds. No screaming punters or crescendo of commentary here, more likely a few wise footies in bullet-proof tweed and some disinterested sheep.
Former champion Flat jockey
