Jockeys to get the footballer treatment in Newbury initiative

JOCKEYS have jumped at the chance to make a name for themselves.

For the first time over the sticks all the riders will have their surnames printed football-style - on their backsides.

It’s all part of the ‘Under Jockeys Orders’ raceday on Coral Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday.

The fun initiative, which will feature on the ITV4-televised card, aims to bring racegoers and jockeys closer together.

Champion jockey Harry Cobden said: “I’m so looking forward to being involved in the event on Coral Gold Cup Day.

“It’s something different and I’m sure it will be a fun day for everyone at Newbury. Anything we, as jockeys, can do to help promote the sport is a good thing.”

Kids from local schools will take the lead and interview some of the sport’s leading names in a question-and-answer session.

Cobden said: “It will be nice to meet fans of racing, both young and old. We need to show we are inclusive and approachable.”

Coral’s David Stevens said: “We are committed to promoting the sport of racing and extending its appeal to as wide an audience as possible, and this activity shares that aim.”

The two-day ‘Hennessy’ meeting kicks off on Friday with the Grade 2 Long Distance Hurdle.

Saturday’s main dish is the Coral Gold Cup, won last year by Jamie Snowden’s Datsalrightgino. Snowden has this year’s current 8-1 antepost favourite Colonel Harry who runs in the same silks.

Henry De Bromhead’s Senior Chief and Nigel Twiston-Davies’ Broadway Boy are 10-1.