Pendleton set to make racing debut at Newbury with Betfair

Team GB Double Olympic cycling champion Victoria Pendleton (34) is set to make her debut as an amateur Jockey at Newbury, racing the George Frewer Charity Race on 2 July

Pendleton has been trained by legendary jockey trainer Paul Nicholls, as part of Betfair’s attempt to qualify the Olympian as a racer in next year’s Cheltenham Festival Foxhunter Chase.

Pendleton commented on her upcoming debut

“When I partnered with Betfair to switch saddles and become an amateur jockey, I knew it’d be one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced but I’ve already enjoyed so many exciting experiences.

The last few months haven’t all been plain sailing though, getting initially used to and then learning to jump in a racing saddle was very different and challenging, and I’d be fibbing if I said I haven’t fallen off a few times along the way.

“But right now I’m just focussed on continuing my preparations for Newbury and I just can’t wait to line up there in four weeks’ time.”

Andy Clifton, Newbury’s Head of Communications at Newbury Racecourse, was thrilled to hear Pendleton is set to make her racing bow at the Berkshire venue,

“We are delighted that Victoria Pendleton and her team have chosen Newbury and the George Frewer Charity Race Evening to take the latest significant step on the road to becoming a successful amateur jockey.

“I am sure that her racing debut will create plenty of interest and we look forward to seeing one of the country’s most remarkable sportswomen in action here at Newbury.”