HORSE RACING - Warwick work rider Jaydon Lee can't wait for partner Shishkin to run at Cheltenham Festival - The Rugby Observer

HORSE RACING - Warwick work rider Jaydon Lee can't wait for partner Shishkin to run at Cheltenham Festival

Rugby Editorial 12th Mar, 2022   0

WARWICK-BORN work rider Jaydon Lee has rapidly risen through the ranks at Nicky Henderson’s yard in Lambourn to look after some of the world’s best horses in less than three years.

Lee, 20, began working at the six-time Champion Trainer’s yard in 2018 and looks after four horses on a daily basis, including two leading chances for next week’s Cheltenham Festival in Constitution Hill and Shishkin, favourites for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase respectively.

This is despite Lee not coming from a racing background and his inspiring passion and commitment to his work is a beacon for others to get involved in the sport. He fell in love with horseracing at the age of 10 when he went with his grandad to local track Warwick racecourse and from that day on had his heart set on working in the industry.

Lee said: “What I enjoy about working with horses, is that you just get a sheer connection with them. Every day you are there looking after them, riding them, you know you do get to build than bond and when you get a nice one like him [Shishkin] you get to go places, meet new people as well.




“I just say that everyone is here to help you, every yard has their own team like a close family, everyone helps out, so I wouldn’t be worried about starting somewhere new.”

Out of all the superstars Lee looks after, it’s Shishkin that he adores the most and his dedication and love of the horse really shines through.


The talented work rider lead Shishkin up in the parade ring before the SBK Clarence House Chase at Ascot back in January, a race that saw a major clash against Irish rival Energumene.

Both went into the race undefeated over fences and Shishkin and jockey Nico de Boinville emerged victorious after a thrilling finale, with Lee then joining the celebrations when the horse came back to the winning enclosure.

Shishkin and Energumene are set to meet again next Wednesday in the Champion Chase, primed to be a highlight of the festival.

Lee added: “The thing that makes Shishkin so special is that he’s so relaxed and takes it all in. My connection with him is very strong, I’ve had him since he arrived, he’s always been my horse, he’s the one I love the most anyway.

“We’re all looking forward to the rematch with Energumene. He pushed us beyond far to get the job done at Ascot. Shishkin is in good form, he’s fresh and well, so I’m very hopeful.”

To watch a video of Lee working with Shishkin click on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMOeJE68k9g

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