Mike Jackson

A tremendous year for Team Jackson

Well, what a tremendous year it’s been for Team Jackson. I’d like to thank all of my owners and back up team for their help and support. My first three day win at Glanusk with Deborah and Martin Toogood’s The Master’s Apprentice (Archie) has to be up there, along with my top ten placing with Jagganath (Jack) at Osberton and W Iridium (Viz) at Weston Park. W Iridium also warrants a special mention for his CIC 1 star win at Somerford Park, where he lead from start to finish.

I’ve also had some great results on the one-day circuit with some of the younger horses like Direct Cruise (Cruise), Yorkie’s Delight (Yorkie), Windmill (Lola) and Pepper Mill (Milly), showing great promise.

Most of the horses are having a well-earned rest now. Up With The Lark (Max), Jagganath and W Iridium are all chilling in the field. Some of the others have been out hunting – Wallaby (Wally) has been learning where to put his feet and Downleadon (Minx) gave me a super day at the Heythrop opening meet. I’ve also been out on Claire Beveridge’s lovely young horse Ric O Shea VIII, who I have to say, really looks the part and has had many admiring looks. Perhaps we should redirect him to the show ring!

Direct Cruising (Cruise) has gone back to his owner Joss Riley’s yard for a short break and I’ve been given another one of her lovely Irish horses – Carrick - to bring on and event next season.

I’d also like to welcome a new owner to the team - Richard Oliver, who has previously had horses with Terry Boon and Zara Phillips, is sending me two of his lovely young horses. One of them, Chantry Riverdance (Andy), has competed successfully up to one star level and has great presence. My main aim is to get to know him and build a solid relationship through the winter.

Sadly we had to say goodbye to ‘Aussie Gen’ who damaged her thumb in a freak accident. We’re very sorry not to have her as part of the team but wish her all the best in her new student role back in Australia. Louise has started her degree at Hartpury but I’m happy to say she’s still very much part of the team and is hoping to build on her success with Carole Mortimer’s Interlude (Netty) next season. Plus she’s a super sonic clipper and we simply can’t do without her at this time of year!

Now it’s quieter we’ve been busy getting the yard ship shape. Perhaps it’s ‘paternal nesting’ kicking in as we’re just a couple of weeks away from baby Jackson number two! Ellie’s now on maternity leave and is trying to catch up on some sleep, which isn’t that easy with a toddler in the house! We’ll keep you posted….

Mike