Champion Apprentice Tom Marquand was today announced as the new ambassador for the 2016 season at Goodwood Racecourse. Based with Classic-winning trainer – and Goodwood specialist – Richard Hannon, Tom’s career went from strength to strength in 2015.
Having started last year by claiming the All Weather Hands and Heels Champion Title, he went on to ride 67 winners at a strike rate of 11% whilst accumulating over £450,000 in prize money.
Tom’s remarkable achievements in 2015 did not go unnoticed as he was selected as one of three finalists for the 2015 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year. Past winners include true sporting greats such as Wayne Rooney, Tom Daley and Andy Murray.
Tom spent the beginning of this year in Australia where he enjoyed a successful spell riding for David Hayes and Tom Dabernig, winning on his first start on board the Shadwell colt Tashbeeh. Further success down under came when Tom rode Tashbeeh to a second win at Flemington after a closely fought run-in with legendary Australian jockey Damien Oliver, leaving him with 2 wins from 9 rides during his month abroad.
Since returning to the UK Tom has been preparing for a big season ahead with the Hannon team at Manton House. With only 25 wins left on his claim, expect to see him in the professional ranks before long.
Tom Marquand, ambassador for Goodwood Racecourse, said;
“I’m unbelievably excited to be taking up this role with Goodwood. It’s one of the most iconic courses in the country and is a real jockey’s favourite. The Qatar Goodwood festival, with the Sussex and the Nassau, is an obvious stand-out of the calendar - but racing here is great throughout the year and I can’t wait to get down there this season.”
The new season begins at Goodwood Racecourse on Saturday, 30 April. For further information and to book tickets please visit www.goodwood.co.uk/horseracing or speak to a member of the dedicated sales team on 01243 755055.
ENDS
For press information please contact;
Sam Hanson, Racecourse PR Executive
T: 01243 755 000
M: 07790 921 688
Goodwood Racecourse on social media:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/goodwoodracecourse
Twitter: @Goodwood_Races
Instagram: @goodwood_races
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