National Hunt lad
Horse & Hound|February 29, 2024
Jaydon Lee looks after Constitution Hill, Shishkin and others at Nicky Henderson's yard in Lambourn
Kate Johnson
National Hunt lad

I'm not from a horsey background, but I watched the racing on television every weekend with my grandad. I started riding lessons when I was about 10; I was quiet and I didn't have the confidence to do it alone so I went with my cousin, and as soon as I started I loved it.

Leaving school, my mates wanted to be footballers or rugby players but that didn't interest me. I knew I had a genuine love for horses and riding, so the next step was the British Racing School, which was a big shock! I'd never been to a racing yard, it was all new to me, but that's probably for the best as I hadn't picked up any bad habits.

I'd been showjumping, and this was completely different in terms of how the horses felt under me. I couldn't even hold the reins properly. It was like learning to ride again.

I came to Seven Barrows after graduation as I felt a busy environment would be better for me and this is one of the best. I've been here for five years.

This story is from the February 29, 2024 edition of Horse & Hound.

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This story is from the February 29, 2024 edition of Horse & Hound.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

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