- Series Leaderboards
- Racing Excellence Apprentice Training Race Series 2012
- Race Results - Hands and Heels Jump Series 2011-12
- Race Results - Betfair Conditional Training Series 2011-12
- Race Results - Hands and Heels All Weather Series 2001/12
- Previous Years Winners
- Where are they now
- Matt Griffiths - Last Years Betfair Conditional Training Series Winner
- Two Wins in Two Days for Jockey Coach Pilot Scheme
Matt Griffiths - Last Years Betfair Conditional Training Series Winner
How did you get into racing? I borrowed a friend’s horse and started hunting at a young age then went to ride out for Mr Hobbs when I left school. From there I started point to pointing and after a couple of years of hard work I became the National Novice Champion.
What was it about racing that appealed to you? Being able to jump at speed and ride winners at big meetings.
How have the Conditional Training Series helped you? They are good because it encouraged me to push horses out hands and heels and not go for my stick too soon.
Have you used all aspects of the prize? Not as yet, but will hopefully have chance soon.
What traits do you perceive to be the most important in being a successful apprentice/conditional jockey? In racing jockeys need to be very dedicated and at the top of their fitness levels. It is a tough sport, physically and mentally therefore it’s important that you give yourself every chance to succeed.
What do you think of the prize? They are great prizes to have won and I can’t wait to have the time to use them. The sponsor, Betfair, has really helped young jockeys to have something to aim towards by supporting this award.
What has been your best win to date? Monkerhostin at Sandown in the Totesport Masters Handicap Chase. It was great to get the ride on such a high profile horse, he gave me a fantastic feel the whole way around and he did everyone proud that day at the age of 13.
What is it like working for Philip Hobbs? He is a great boss to work for and really helps me out with advice. He is very loyal and understanding, whilst trying his best to give everyone chances.
What have you learnt since being there? I have been at Mr Hobbs’s since I first started in racing and he has helped me continue to improve my riding through advice and plenty of schooling practice. Working with top class horses also helps!
How have the older jockeys in the industry helped you? Although we are consistently racing against each other we are all great friends and there are plenty there on hand to offer advice. Due to working at Mr Hobbs I have always had plenty of helpful advice from Tom O’Brien as well as always doing anything to help me out.
