James Bowen had a dramatic day at Ffos Las when his mount, Saunton Surf, crashed out during the second division of the DragonBet Still Best Odds Guaranteed Handicap Hurdle. As the mare attempted to chase down eventual winner Double Click, she collided with the final hurdle, leaving Bowen with no chance to stay mounted. Momentum sent both horse and jockey tumbling, and the mare rolled directly onto Bowen, pinning him beneath her.
Dramatic Rescue
Thankfully, medical staff and a vet were quick to react, sedating Saunton Surf to ensure her calm release. Despite the terrifying fall, both horse and rider emerged unscathed. The incident briefly delayed the event but didn’t dampen Bowen’s determination.
Racing tips, particularly free racing tips offered daily, based on crucial factors like trainer and jockey form, course records, and weather, might have warned of challenges on Ffos Las’s soft ground. For punters, it’s a reminder that racing is as unpredictable as the Welsh weather. Still, it would be even more unpredictable if tips came seven days in advance, so take your chance and check the odds today to see tomorrow’s racing advice.
Bouncing Back
Proving that jockeys are made of steel, Bowen returned to the saddle just an hour later aboard Keep Running, a Warren Greatrex-trained hopeful in the two-mile steeplechase. The pair were favored at 100-30, and despite Keep Running occasionally veering right at obstacles, they delivered a confident win.
RACE 7 RESULT – Download the DragonBet App Handicap Chase @DragonBetWales
Keep Running
Sir Psycho
Art Of DiplomacyJockey: @james_bowen_
Trainer: @wgreatrexracing
Owner: Mrs J Fowler pic.twitter.com/IAu2YfJjmI— Ffos Las Racecourse (@FfosLasRC) January 11, 2025
Bowen, ever composed, downplayed the earlier incident. “That was a thrill anyway,” he remarked, adding praise for Keep Running’s spirited jumping. The horse’s energy and form were a testament to Greatrex’s training acumen, securing Bowen’s victory and brightening the day for punters who backed the favorite.
Bowen’s Remarkable Recovery
Bowen’s quick return to action was nothing short of heroic. Being trapped under a horse is no small ordeal, yet the young jockey displayed the toughness and mental fortitude that set top riders apart. Injuries are an occupational hazard in the high-stakes world of jump racing, but Bowen’s ability to bounce back and perform under pressure speaks volumes about his professionalism.
Sky Sports Racing presenter Josh Apiafi summed up the dramatic scene:
“It was a pretty horrific fall. James Bowen ended up underneath the horse, which was winded and lying on top of him. They had to slightly sedate her to make sure she wasn’t kicking out while they removed him.”
A Chilly but Thrilling Day at Ffos Las
The day’s racing at Ffos Las came as a last-minute lifeline for the jumps community, with bad weather forcing the British Horseracing Authority to cancel meets at Warwick, Kempton, and Wetherby. While the 4°C temperature might have felt balmy compared to other venues, conditions remained testing for horses and riders.
One of the standout performances came from Handstands in the Grade Two DragonBet Towton Novices’ Chase. Backed into even money, the horse delivered a commanding nine-length victory under Ben Jones, beating the only other finisher, Lord Of Thunder.
Handstands wins the DragonBet Towton Novices’ Chase
Back to back wins over fences for him.#ITVRacing | @FfosLasRC | @BenJone04644251 | @benpauling1 pic.twitter.com/22iBEp2VeV
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) January 11, 2025
Trainer Charlie Longsdon has high hopes for Handstands, suggesting the Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown could be next. “That will put him spot on,” said Jones, confident that the six-year-old has plenty more to give, despite the heavy ground.
Prestbury Park and Beyond
While Handstands’ odds for Cheltenham’s Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase were slashed to 20-1, Longsdon hinted at a preference for Aintree. With another strong contender in The Jukebox Man, who carries Harry Redknapp’s colors, the stable is keeping options open.
For Bowen, the day at Ffos Las was a testament to resilience and skill, qualities that keep fans coming back to the thrill of jump racing.