BRIAN HUGHES has been announced as Northern Jump Jockey of the Year for the sixth consecutive time following another impressive campaign of over a century of winners at Northern-based tracks.
Malton-based Hughes has ridden 109 winners at Northern racecourses so far this season, 51 more than second-placed Sean Quinlan (58) and 65 ahead of third-placed Danny McMenamin (44).
The Northern Jump Jockey of the Year is determined by which jockey rides the most winners during the jumps season at the 15 British jumps racecourses from Market Rasen northwards.
Amongst his 109 victories on Northern soil, the 35-year old secured notable successes in December, firstly with Lake View Lad in the Grade 2 Many Clouds Chase at Aintree Racecourse and then aboard Sam’s Adventure in the Betfair Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase at Haydock Park.
Upon receiving his award at Perth Racecourse, Hughes said: “The support I continue to receive from those back home makes my job and achievements possible. It has been a challenging year but British racing has survived and thrived during the pandemic; and I am immensely proud of our sport for safely providing live entertainment for so many fans to enjoy during lockdown.”
Two Northern racecourses, Musselburgh and Newcastle, have both provided Hughes with 15 victories this campaign and are his top performing tracks this season.
Trainer, Donald McCain, for whom Hughes has claimed 47 wins for this season and therefore his most successful trainer partnership of the campaign, said: “Brian has been a stand-out rider in the north of England for a number of years. It was plain for all to see, which is why I asked him to come and join the team, and I’m delighted that he accepted it. His dedication and work ethic is second to none and he’s a shining example of how the job should be done.”
Hughes has ridden 140 wins in total this season and was therefore ten behind leader Harry Skelton in the race to become 2020/21 Champion Jump Jockey.
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