Pilot Profile - Lee Edwards

Marie Bridgwater talks to the alented young conditional rider Lee Edwards

Conditional Jockey Lee Edwards is based with Worcestershire Trainer Tony Carroll. Lee, 22, started working for Carroll in the spring of 2008, having previously been employed by Trevor Wall. After gaining valuable experience there for 2 seasons, Lee rode his first winner for Trevor in 2006 aboard useful hurdler Archimboldo at Bangor on Dee.

Speaking to the British Racing School, Lee had previously stated he had hoped to have ridden out his 7lb claim by the end of 2009. Whilst that particular target has eluded the talented Conditional, he has surpassed that goal now after steering 14 winners home last season and a striking up a successful partnership with his boss Carroll. I can confidently say he will exceed that number in the coming season.

M - What made you want to get into the industry?
L - I rode ponies and horses from a young age, being a jockey was something I always wanted to do.

M - You have made a real impact on National Hunt racing this season; do you intend to stay with Tony Carroll?
L - Yes, he's been very supportive and given me plenty of opportunities on some very nice horses. But I am always looking for outside stables to ride for as well.

M - As you’re only 22, what’s your life time ambition?
L - To hopefully win the Grand National, Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle. I would like to be riding in all the big races on top class horses.

M - If you could choose one horse to take over the national fences, who would it be?
L - Kinkeel - he’s a fantastic jumper, he would get you round safe and look after you.

M - Who do you most admire in Racing and why?
A.P.McCoy. He's a great ambassador for racing and his drive for winners inspires me.

M - Do you have a racecourse you consider to be particularly lucky for yourself?
L - It would have to be Ffos Las and Ascot.

M - Is there anyone you’ve seen coming up through the pony racing ranks you’d tip to have a future?
Yes, Charlie Carroll, Tony Carroll's son. He rides out with me on a regular basis and is improving quickly.

M - Which horse has exceeded your expectations?
L - Cat Six. We bought this horse from Leominster horse and pony sales and she won her first 3 races and ended her season with a 3rd in a mares listed race at Cheltenham.

M - If you could imagine doing a different job, what would it be?
L - It would have to be with horses, so training would be my first choice.

M - What was the last movie you watched and who with?
L - Zoolander, Ben Stiller cracks me up. With some friends and a G and T!

M - What’s your favourite meal?
L - I enjoy cooking, usually a stir fry or a nice steak.

M - When you‘re not riding what do you like to do?
L - I have a busy life so it’s important that I relax. Also, Ibiza is great for a holiday!

M - Tell me a random fact about you…
L - I would love to have dinner with Cheryl Cole! (Doesn’t everybody?)

Lee is a young talented jockey with bags full of ambition and potential to match. His determination and level-headed attitude towards racing have provided him with a focused outlook on his future and I wish him and Tony all the best for a successful 2010/11 season.

Marie Bridgwater