Champion jockey Sean Bowen is positioned as a leading contender for a second National Hunt title, with hopes that his younger brother, James Bowen, can also challenge for the championship this season. As of Wednesday, Sean has surged ahead in the jump jockeys’ championship with 98 winners, placing him 55 winners clear of James, who currently holds second place.
“James is having a great season and is currently second behind me in the championship,” Sean Bowen stated. He achieved his first championship title in April 2023 after a previous season was cut short due to injury. “Hopefully, we can keep it like that all season.”
In a remarkable career milestone, the 28-year-old from Pembrokeshire reached 1,000 winners in February. He expressed admiration for his older brother, Mickey Bowen, who has recently taken over the family training operation from their father, Peter Bowen. The elder Bowen passed his license to Mickey in May after an impressive record of 1,105 winners over jumps and earnings exceeding £10 million in total prize money.
“I can’t quite believe how well Mickey has started,” Sean said. “He’s been incredible. Things just keep going from strength to strength, and he’s doing a brilliant job.” Mickey has already trained 40 winners this season, placing him at the top of the trainers’ championship with prize money of £388,678.
In preparation for an exciting weekend, Sean Bowen looks forward to racing on home ground during the Dragonbet Welsh Racing Festival, which takes place from March 15-17, 2024, at Chepstow. The event is expected to draw approximately 10,000 racegoers to the Monmouthshire course.
“We need to promote Welsh racing all we can, because we’ve got some brilliant trainers and brilliant jockeys, and obviously some big owners now as well,” Sean emphasized. “Welsh racing is thriving at the minute, and this big festival meeting at Chepstow is where all the stars will start their season, so it is quite exciting.”
The team at Chepstow has worked diligently to promote the event, with several owners sharing information about attractive deals on hotels and transportation options. Despite being located in Wales, the venue is conveniently close to many jumps trainers based just across the border, making it accessible for a wider audience.
A three-day festival promises to deliver exceptional racing action while showcasing the talent within Welsh racing. As Sean Bowen continues his pursuit for a second title, the spotlight remains on both him and his brother, who are set to make their mark in the 2024 season.
