Sean Bowen Saturday rides blog: 'I’d be hopeful he’s got a big chance'

Sean Bowen has three rides at Sandown on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The Coral ambassador previews them all and reflects on his season, which saw him crowned Champion Jockey for the second successive year, in his latest blog.

Sean Bowen Saturday rides blog - Saturday, April 25, 2026

Sean Bowen Saturday rides schedule

• Wilstar - Sandown - 1.45 race odds

• Resplendent Grey - Sandown - 3.30 race odds

• Tour Ovalie - Sandown - 5.15 race odds

It’s been some season, and probably even better than last year, if I’m honest. I’ve been lucky enough to ride plenty of good horses and work with some great people, and when everything comes together like that, it makes it all worthwhile. There’s a lot of hard work behind the scenes, with long days, plenty of miles on the road, and to be heading towards over 1,000 rides just shows the graft that goes into it. But when I get my hands on the trophy at Sandown, it will all be worth it.

Strangely enough, I don’t feel worn out by it all. If anything, I’m already looking forward to getting going again next week, starting back at zero and trying to ride more winners. That’s the mindset, and you never really stand still in this game. Reaching 1,000 rides in a season isn’t something that happens very often, so it’s a milestone I’m proud of, but the focus is always on what’s next.

There have been plenty of big winners along the way, but if I had to pick a standout, it would be winning the Coral Welsh Grand National success on board Haiti Couleurs. That meant a lot. He’s been a fantastic horse for me over the last couple of years, and to win a race like that — especially in Wales — was pretty special.

Looking ahead to Saturday at Sandown, I’ve got three rides to look forward to, and it will be another special day in my career when I lift the trophy in front of my family and friends.