Sheldrake Training recently hosted an exciting and innovative Sporting Excellence Level 3 training day at the newly established training yard of former Grade 1-winning jockey turned trainer, Nick Scholfield, in Lambourn.
The session brought together aspiring amateur jockeys Joshua Hatton and current amateur rider Jack Wilmot, who both undertook specialist coaching on Sheldrake Training’s newly acquired Racewood Equestrian Simulators. The day focused on developing the core fundamentals of race riding, including balance, pushing out techniques, rhythm, posture, and overall race riding dynamics — all delivered within a professional and performance-driven environment.
The Sporting Excellence Programme is an exciting new initiative being developed by Sheldrake Training to support amateur jockeys at grassroots level. The vision behind the programme is to provide young riders with access to elite coaching, athlete development, and professional guidance as they progress through the early stages of their racing careers.
The programme aims to bridge the gap between enthusiasm and professionalism, helping riders not only improve their race riding ability but also understand the demands of operating as an athlete within the modern racing industry. Alongside technical riding development, the programme will focus on professionalism, performance mindset, physical preparation, communication, and understanding the standards required within elite racing environments.
A major asset to the programme is the involvement of Nick Scholfield (seen below), whose wealth of experience at the very highest level of National Hunt racing brings invaluable expertise to the project. During his distinguished riding career, Nick rode for legendary trainer Paul Nicholls and enjoyed success at the pinnacle of the sport, including winning the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle aboard Irving and riding Cheltenham Festival winners such as Hunt Ball. He also partnered notable horses including Sky Pirate and held key retained riding roles for both Jonjo O’Neill and the Tedham Group.
Image Credit = Nick Scholfield after he won the Grand Annual on SKY PIRATE.
Having now successfully transitioned into training at his new Lambourn operation, Nick has kindly offered to work alongside Sheldrake Training as part of the Sporting Excellence Programme. With the Equisizer now based at Nick’s yard, riders will have access to high-quality facilities and coaching in a professional racing environment.
The collaboration represents an exciting opportunity for aspiring jockeys to receive support, mentorship, and technical development from individuals with genuine industry experience and success. Sheldrake Training hopes the programme will become a valuable stepping stone for young amateur riders looking to build confidence, develop race riding skills, and progress within the racing industry.
This is just the beginning of an exciting journey for Sheldrake Training’s Sporting Excellence Programme, with further training days, rider development opportunities, and industry collaborations already being planned for the future.
If you are interested in finding out more about our Sporting Excellence Programme, contact us by phone Call 01980 845 789