



I don’t think my next jockey needs any introduction. I will just let the champ take it away.





Oisin, have you always been involved in horse racing?





I lived with my Uncle Jim at age 15 - 16. I rode ponies from the age of 4 and racing was always on TV at home.





How much influence did John Reid have on your racing career?





John Reid used to spend hours tutoring me on the equicizer. He was a huge help. I’m still in contact with him now.





If you weren't a jockey what would you have done?





My dream for many years was to become an international showjumper. I was small though and my uncle Jim suggested I should ride out for him. I contracted the racing bug!

The rest is history!





If you could ride any horse in history who would it be?





Frankel was an exceptional animal. The best flat horse I’ve seen. Best Mate was a star, winning 3 Cheltenham Gold Cups.





What do you like to do in your spare time?





I follow showjumping and my girlfriend and many of my mates compete at the top level. It’s a great sport.





Former jockey Alan Rutter told me the brilliant Roaring Lion was the best horse he had ever ridden on the gallops and he was classy and had a certain swagger.





It's such a shame he's not with us anymore but would he be the best horse you have ridden in your career?





Unfortunately, Roaring Lion lost is battle with colic. I was very fortunate he came along so early in my career. He had amazing power and balance. His turn of pace was electric. His temperament to match one’s best friend.





I personally love 2-year-old horses, what are your views on the exciting prospects Military March and Heart Reef?





Military March has lots of size and scope. He will make a lovely horse next year. Heart Reef is less of a physical specimen, she’s also female with a great pedigree. Her trainer excels with this type of horse.





Do you have any dark horses that my readers should look out for next season?





I think Chill Chill will continue to progress. She’s a half-sister to Beat The Bank. He was brilliant. This filly is becoming more like him.





I can't finish without congratulating you on your amazing achievement on becoming a Champion jockey and look forward to hopefully seeing you win many more over the years.





What advice would you give to anybody wanting to get into the racing game?





If you are willing to work hard enough, you will achieve it. Never lose sight of the fact, the horse is no.1 Everything else comes after that. The best figures in racing, live, breathe and dream it.





A huge thanks to Champion Jockey for taking time out of his busy schedule and answering questions for my blog. I would also like to congratulate him again and look forward to seeing him crowned Champion jockey at Ascot on Saturday, also thanks to Uncle Jim for giving Oisin some great advice about becoming a jockey.



