Scudamore says: “Getting on horses like Thistlecrack is what jockeys dream about”
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Top jockey discusses his Newbury run
I went and had a sit on Thistlecrack on my way to Hereford on Wednesday morning. I popped him over a few hurdles and he felt as good as ever.
He looks in great condition and he gave me the same feel that he’s always done and that’s what you’re looking for, and that’s what pleased me so much.
Colin and Joe would know him far better at home than I would; I’ve only ever really schooled him down at the yard, I haven’t ridden him in his work or anything like that.
But I go and school horses down at the Tizzards every few weeks and it’s been great seeing Thistlecrack getting fitter, and seeing the changes in him as he gets closer to returning to the track, and he now looks fantastic.
The Tizzards know where they are with him and they are very happy with him, and if they’re happy then I’m happy.
I’ve been so busy in recent weeks that I haven’t really given it that much thought but I’m sure when I get up tomorrow I’ll start getting a few butterflies, as I would with any major race.
I’m really looking forward to riding Thistlecrack again but I’m not all-consumed by it. Getting on horses like Thistlecrack is what jockeys dream about and I’m the lucky chap that gets to do it.
Looking at the race, the one thing the opposition have on us is that they’ve all had a previous run this season, whereas it’s our first run.
But we’re getting 6lbs off Uknowhatimeanharry so that’s in our favour. We just want Thistlecrack to show us he’s as good as ever, and when you ride horses this good, you only have to worry about yourself and not the opposition.
This was the race two years ago that he won on route to winning the World Hurdle, so it’s the perfect race to bring him back and prep him for the King George.
The conditions of the race suit ideally and whatever he does in this race Colin has indicated that he’s going to improve for it. I’m just looking forward to seeing him show us he’s as good as ever.
Tom
