It’s been some season, and probably even better than last year, if I’m honest. I’ve been lucky enough to ride plenty of good horses and work with some great people, and when everything comes together like that, it makes it all worthwhile. There’s a lot of hard work behind the scenes, with long days, plenty of miles on the road, and to be heading towards over 1,000 rides just shows the graft that goes into it. But when I get my hands on the trophy at Sandown, it will all be worth it.

Strangely enough, I don’t feel worn out by it all. If anything, I’m already looking forward to getting going again next week, starting back at zero and trying to ride more winners. That’s the mindset, and you never really stand still in this game. Reaching 1,000 rides in a season isn’t something that happens very often, so it’s a milestone I’m proud of, but the focus is always on what’s next.

There have been plenty of big winners along the way, but if I had to pick a standout, it would be winning the Coral Welsh Grand National success on board Haiti Couleurs. That meant a lot. He’s been a fantastic horse for me over the last couple of years, and to win a race like that—especially in Wales—was pretty special.

Looking ahead to Saturday at Sandown, I’ve got three rides to look forward to, and it will be another special day in my career when I lift the trophy in front of my family and friends.

13:45 Sandown – Wilstar

Wilstar has been in great form, and he comes here looking for a hat-trick. Since having a wind op, he’s improved massively this season. I thought he was good at Southwell and then stepped forward again at Warwick. His mark still looks workable, so I’d be hopeful he’s got a big chance—probably my best of the day.

15:30 Sandown – Resplendent Grey

It’s fair to say his season hasn’t quite gone to plan for Resplendent Grey after that win at Carlisle. That said, his run at Windsor behind a good one was very solid, and you can probably forgive the run at Chepstow with the blinkers on. He won this race last year and, although he’s got more weight to carry this time, it doesn’t look as strong a race. If he can get back to his best, he’s got a major chance—but he does need to bounce back.

17:15 Sandown – Tour Ovalie

Tour Ovalie ran a solid race to finish fourth at Chepstow last time and has been consistent. The slight question is whether she’s been a bit too consistent for her own good from a handicapping point of view, but she runs here off bottom weight, which gives her a chance. Hopefully, she can get involved and maybe sneak into the places.

Sean Bowen, Coral Racing Ambassador