On the latest episode of On The Coalface, we’re joined by our first jockey guest, Jim Crowley, champion Flat jockey in 2016 and long-time Shadwell number one. Jim looks back at his early years around point-to-pointers and hunting in Berkshire, the “proper grounding” that shaped him, and the moment Harvey Smith spotted him and took him up to Yorkshire.

From there, Jim talks through switching codes after 300 winners over jumps, the milestones that moved his Flat career on, and how his curiosity for pedigrees and stallion traits led him into breeding. The conversation then turns to the stallions he knows as well as anyone: Mostahdaf, Minzaal and Baaeed - what made them different, what they might pass on, and why toughness and temperament still matter.

Jim also speaks candidly about his serious fall at York, the reality of rehab, and how the last year has reshaped his perspective on racing and life.

Sponsored by:

•⁠  ⁠Whitsbury Manor Stud

•⁠  ⁠Oliver St Lawrence Bloodstock

•⁠  ⁠Saracen Horse Feeds