Ian Burns


BRS Graduate Ian Burns rode his first winner in last week's leg of the 2010 Hands and Heels Flat Series.


Ian came to the racing school in 2008 on course 220, following weekend work experience with Karl Burke, and he created a lasting impression with the staff here as someone who was very keen to succeed. He left the BRS to take up employment with Michael Bell where he remains today. Having gained his Apprentice Licence in January 2010, he continues to be a frequent visitor to the BRS for simulator training and the hard work is now paying off.

On Friday 23rd July Ian was given the leg up on Poppy's Rose by trainer Tim Etherington in the Hands and Heels Apprentice Series Handicap; this time a 5f sprint at Thirsk. Ian brought her home nearly 2 lengths in front of 20/1 shot Simple Rhythm ridden by fellow BRS graduate Josh Crane.
The series, run by the BRS in association with the British Horseracing Authority, is designed to give young jockeys education and support during the early stages of their careers. The idea is to teach the jockeys how to get the most out of their horse without resorting to the whip. They have a course walk and a review of the race with a jockey coach at every leg of the series, and are awarded points on presentation, attitude, professionalism as well as place points. At the end of the series the winner is rewarded with a generous prize.

The current leader of the Series is BRS Graduate Matthew Cosham, who racked up a lot of points in the first 4 races of the series, but there is still a long way to go with the final race not until 23rd October at Doncaster, so we wish all the Apprentices the best of luck in all the remaining races, and hopefully now he's had one, Ian will continue to notch up the winners!