Ladbrokes have released the first images of their racing ambassador, Vogue Williams, riding out on the gallops for the first time this week – as she trains to become a jockey for a charity race this summer.
The TV presenter visited trainer Jim Boyle’s yard, where she experienced an insight into the life of a jockey.
On her first visit, Vogue helped tack up the 15.2 mare named Poetic Motion, as she gears up for her jockey transformation.
To ensure she is race-ready Vogue will undertake four months of intensive training, under the expert guidance of Jim Boyle at his training facilities at South Hatch in Epsom.
Speaking about her partnership with Ladbrokes, Vogue said: “I’m thrilled to be working with Ladbrokes and raising money for the charity race.”
“I work out a lot and used to horse ride growing up, but I was still quite taken aback by how physically demanding it is to be a jockey. It’s a big undertaking but I love a challenge! My trainer Jim Boyle is incredible and I’m looking forward to learning and improving over the coming months.”
Jim Boyle said: “It’s great to be working with Vogue and training her to get race ready over the next few months and we’re looking forward to helping her improve her technique and fitness.”
“You could tell that she has ridden before, as she sat well and had good balance and overall it was a good first start. She looked confident and strong at her first attempt on the gallops and we’ll be working hard over the next few months in helping her to prepare herself physically and mentally for the challenge of riding in a horse race.”
Nicola McGeady, Ladbrokes’ Head of PR, said: “We’re delighted to have Vogue Williams on the team. With her passion and enthusiasm for horse racing, she is the perfect fit for our brand. Females are continuing to make history in the racing world and we’re confident that with the help of Jim Boyle she’ll become an excellent rider.”
