Welsh Jockey Allergic to Horses to Ride in Grand National
Sean Bowen, a Welsh jockey with a remarkable story, is set to ride in this year’s Grand National despite being allergic to horses. Bowen, who hails from Pembrokeshire, will be riding Three Card Brag at Aintree on Saturday, aiming to fulfil a childhood dream of winning the prestigious race. The 27-year-old has had an outstanding season, surpassing 1,000 victories and leading the jockey’s championship with a significant lead over his closest competitor.
Despite his allergy to horses, which he admits still affects him to some extent, Bowen comes from a family deeply involved in horse racing. His parents, Peter and Karen, have been training racehorses for three decades. Bowen himself didn’t initially have a passion for the sport, preferring football until he began riding at the age of 10. However, winning the Grand National has always been a goal for him, one that he has dreamt of since he was a young boy.
Bowen’s younger brother, James, who has ridden over 400 winners, is also set to compete in the Grand National riding Chantry House this weekend. Sean’s best finish in the Grand National came in 2023 when he finished fourth on Noble Yeats. This year, with 163 victories under his belt, he is determined to turn his successful season into a spectacular one by clinching victory at Aintree.
In an interview, Bowen expressed his deep-rooted desire to win the Grand National for his family, acknowledging that it is a race that holds immense significance in the world of horse racing. Reflecting on his journey in the sport, Bowen highlighted the support and influence of his father, who has always hoped to see his son win the iconic race. The Grand National remains a pinnacle in Bowen’s career aspirations, with the potential for a victory to solidify his legacy in the sport.
As he approaches his ninth entry in the Grand National, Bowen’s determination and passion for the race shine through. Despite his allergy and the challenges it presents, he remains focused on the goal of emerging victorious at Aintree. If successful, Bowen believes that winning the Grand National would be an unparalleled achievement in his career and a moment to cherish for a lifetime.
Bowen’s journey to the Grand National exemplifies perseverance, dedication, and a true love for the sport of horse racing. With his family by his side and the support of fans, he is ready to take on the challenge and make his mark on one of the most prestigious events in the racing calendar. As the Welsh jockey prepares to compete at Aintree, the racing world eagerly awaits to see if he can overcome his allergies and ride to glory in the Grand National.