The highly anticipated Lester’s 2023 awards ceremony took place during an exclusive live broadcast on Sky Racing this Friday, December 22nd. Celebrating remarkable achievements in horse racing, the event highlighted Brian Hughes’ dominance as he claimed top honors. Following his victorious season, securing the title of Jump Jockey of the Year for the third time.

Another jockey, Alan Johns, was praised for starting the Jump Jockeys Derby at Chepstow in October. Quite an achievement for both jockeys. Fans showed tremendous support for Brian Hughes in particular. Yet, a few contrasts appeared, as not everyone was satisfied with what unfolded on the day or even its consequences.

Horse racing success amid season’s tests

Recently, At The Races shared a post on X which included Brian Hughes’ achievement. The caption reads, “A third Lester award for the three-time champion jockey! Brian Hughes is crowned Jump Jockey of the Year! #Lesters2023”. However, just a month ago, Brian Hughes, faced a tough battle to defend his British Jumps Jockeys’ Championship title this season.

Though he has led the pack for three consecutive championships in recent years, this time around rival Sean Bowen had gotten an early start and was showing a commanding lead. Among his goals were to win big races such as the Fighting Fifth Hurdle, and ride 100-to-1 longshot Salsada in pursuit of glory at events like the Grand National or Cheltenham Festival. At 38, settled in Carlton-in-Cleveland in North Yorkshire, Hughes was a rider, that leading National Hunt trainers still relied upon for major races on the calendar. But at last, that dream was fulfilled-he became Jump Jockey of the Year. With this post being broadcast to the fans, immediately there arose contrasting views about jockeys performance.

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Varied views on the jockey’s year

One critique sharply highlights the jockey’s challenging year, noting personal obstacles: “Seriously, this year seems to have been one of his toughest. Add to that, his wife airing their struggles on Facebook about his demanding schedule and writing to the BHA...”

Conversely, another comment commends the jockey’s exceptional work ethic, “Hardest working jockey around, he deserves all the success in the world.”

A different perspective acknowledges the jockey’s skill while acknowledging potential hurdles: “He is a good rider but has got an awful stable.”

A comparative critique emerges, scrutinizing the jockey’s abilities against others: “There are 20 jockeys better than him.”

The last comment reiterates the doubt regarding the jockey’s performance: “Tell me how. If it’s for the amount of losers he’s ridden then ok.”

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