We are delighted to be able to bring you this interview with National Hunt jockey Nick Scholfield, who until recently had been on the side-lines due to injury. Now back in the saddle & the winners enclosure, Nick talks about all aspects of his life & racing….
How did your interest with racing start?
My late father was a point to point jockey.
Did you always want to be a jockey when you were younger? And what route did you take to becoming a jockey?
I had ponies as a child and I enjoyed showjumping.. i wanted to be a show jumper or a jockey when was younger. When I left school I decided to go work for Paul Nicholls.
You have ridden over 400 winners, can you remember your first winner under rules?
Lou do Molin mas at Newbury for Paul Nicholls. 3mile amateur riders chase. Over 10 years ago now.
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Of your 400+ winners, which one gave you the most satisfaction?
I personally really enjoyed winning on Huntball at the Cheltenham festival. It was a rags to riches story with his trainer Kerian Burk and owner Anthony Knott.
What is your favourite race course and why?
Exeter. My mother comes to watch me there and seem to have had a lot of luck there over the years. Proper winter NH track.
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Injuries are part of the risk associated with National Hunt racing, what has been your worst injury and what role does the IJF have in your recovery?
I’m was recently out injured with a fractured tubular and the Injured Jockeys Fund are always a massive help in road to recovery. My worse injury has be breaking my femur in a fall at Fakenham.
Do you own any horses?
No.
What was your favourite horse to ride?
Melodic Rendezvous.
What would your Banker of the upcoming Cheltenham Festival be?
Paisley Park.
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And finally, Can you give our readers a horse to follow for the future?
Tedham . Trained by Jonjo O’Neill. Only 5yo and sure will only improve with age.
We would like to thanks Nick for his time and wish him all the best for the future..
Interview by Rich Williams
Pictures… Nick Scholfield(NS) Others from Gallary
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