HORSE RACING: Somerset County Council congratulates Victoria Pendleton

OLYMPIC cyclist turned National Hunt jockey Victoria Pendleton has been congratulated by Somerset County Council on her efforts today (Friday, March 18, 2016) at the Cheltenham Festival.

Pendleton came fifth on Pacha Du Polder in the 4.10pm Foxhunter Chase at Cheltenham – a race won by another female jockey, Nina Carberry, on 13-8 favourite On the Fringe.

But it was Pendleton, who had only got on a horse for the first time 12 months ago, who grabbed the headlines for an amazing ride on Pacha Du Polder who is trained by Somerset-based Paul Nicholls.

Racing experts have had to eat humble pie with many having suggested Pendleton’s entry was nothing more than a sideshow.

But her brave ride and subsequent fifth place finish has earned her well-deserved plaudits.

Cllr John Osman, leader of Somerset County Council, said: “What an achievement, from not having sat on a horse a year ago to successfully negotiating one of the toughest courses and toughest festivals in the world.

“I know there has been a huge amount of help, support and encouragement from Paul Nicholls and his Somerset yard and this achievement is tribute to them as well as to her. Victoria shows that you can achieve so much through determination, courage and willingness to learn.”

Nicholls, speaking to the BBC, said: “It’s great for the team that won the race, but for Victoria to finish fifth after all the doubters was superb.

“She’s had a thrill and I think it’s good for racing all around the world. She’s ridden a winner in everyone’s eyes.”

Nicholls finished the festival on a high by winning the final two races with 14-1 shot Ibis Du Rheu in the 4.50pm and then Solar Impulse, a 28-1 shout, in the 5.30pm.

PHOTO: Victoria Pendleton and Pacha Du Polder on their way to finishing fifth today at the Cheltenham Festival. Photo courtesy of the Cheltenham Festival’s Facebook Page and Great British Racing.

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