Pilot Profile - Mark Quinlan

Marie Bridgwater talks to rising star Mark Quinlan

Conditional jockey Mark Quinlan hails from Newbridge in Co. Kildare - The heart of racing in Ireland. Since he came over from The Emerald Isle two years ago, he has been based with the ex jockey turned trainer Neil Mulholland in Devon, for whom he rode his first winner aboard Sula’s Legend at Worcester in September of last year.

Mark is not from a racing family, but has always had a passion for horses and it shows. Having won just eight Point-to-Points in Ireland, he bravely took the plunge to cross over the water and after arriving in England he turned conditional straight away and was lucky enough to have been snapped up by top agent Dave Roberts just after his first win. He took the decision to move to England because in his own words “It was very simple, as I knew it was the place to be to further my career as a National Hunt Jockey”

To date, Mark has ridden eleven winners and his seasons can only improve, as injury had ruled him out for three months last season after breaking his leg in two places. Mark has the ever-so polite manners of a gentleman, the hard work ethic of a young entrepreneur and the passion of all dedicated season ticket
holders.

If you could change one thing about a day’s racing, what would it be?
Not to have so many meetings in one day and then none the next. Race planning baffles me!!

What made you get involved in the ‘Sport of Kings’?
The love of horses and the thrill of winning.

Is there one race you regret, one you would have ridden differently and thought you should have won?
Yes, riding I’m A Legend at Wincanton and getting beaten a nose!!!

What do you do with your time off to relax and unwind?
I love walking the dogs and love good food.

What’s your favourite racecourse and why?
I would have to say Worcester, as I rode my first winner there on my first ride in England.

What’s your best advice to give any budding young jockey?
To be polite, and always work hard.

Do you have a career plan? What goals would you like to achieve in years to come?
I would love to become champion conditional and also ride as many winners at the Cheltenham Festival.

If you could pick any horse to ride in any race in the UK what would it be?
Denman, in the Gold Cup.

How did you cope being sidelined for three months after breaking your leg at Fontwell last October?
It was very hard to accept at the start. However having good people around you makes it easier. Oaksley House in Lambourn was a huge help in getting me back to full fitness. They deserve lots of credit.

Do you struggle with your weight at all?
No, I’m one of the lucky ones!

If it was your last day on earth, what would be your perfect meal?
Steak with Peppercorn sauce.

Marie Bridgewater