We are delighted to bring you an interview with Rising Star Josh Bryan, who is an apprentice with Andrew Balding….
Can you tell us a little about your self please?
Apprentice jockey for Andrew Balding, I am 19 and originally from Shrewsbury
What was your first racing memory?
Always Waining winning the Topham Chase for a third consecutive time.
Did you always want to be a jockey or did you look at other careers?
Always wanted to be a jockey but I am also very interested in the bloodstock world.
Did you go through the BRS?
Yes, I went to the BRS (British Racing School) and NRC (Northern Racing College)
How did the apprenticeship come about?
Andrew offered me a job after seeing me pony racing and then gave me my license
What is the best part of the job?
When you win or do better than expected, the faces on everyone involved with the horse are second to none
When did you get your first course ride?
Wolverhampton April 16th 2016 finished fourth for Peter Bowen, who is my Uncle.
And your first winner was?
Bath 29th June 2016 on the same horse as my first ride Princess Roania
Do you set targets?
After each month I say to myself I’ll do better in the next month Ie. Rides and winners
Favourite course?
I’ve had my most success around Chelmsford on the All Weather but also love Goodwood and Chester
Racing Inspiration?
Christophe Soumillon
What’s the best peice of advice you have been given?
Don’t be a sheep, make your own path!
If you could win one Classic, which would it be & why?
The Derby at Epsom, there’s no other race like it
What horse would you like to Ride… Past or Present?
Has to be Frankel, just to feel the amount of power that horse had.
What would you say to any young person looking to become a jockey?
Keep you ears open and mouth shut, follow orders to get where you need to be and never make a fool of yourself or get fooled!
Can you give our readers a horse to follow for the rest of the season?
Beat the Bank, there’s still more improvement to come from him.
Thanks to Josh for taking the time to do this for us. We will be watching his career with interest and look forward to seeing him in a winners enclosure very soon….
Interview by Rich Williams
arseonlineracing 