My name is Darren Edwards and I currently combine my career as a jockey with studying for a BSc (Hons) Degree in Rural Land Management at the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester.

When younger, as a member of the Devon and Somerset Pony Club I regularly competed in triathlon, show jumping and eventing. I competed in the Prince Philip Cup at Wembley in 1995 and 1997 and had an England trial as well as being a Great Britain Reserve - this provided great foundations for my racing career.

The sport however has always played an important part of my life. My father (who currently holds a permit) and grandfather both trained National Hunt horses. My dad 'Gordon' combines training with his Exmoor Farrier Business based near to Wheddon Cross.

Whilst at college, when time permits, I try to venture across to Lambourn where before Christmas I rode out for Noel Chance on numerous occasions. Unfortunately though since the start of the 2004 Point to Point season where I've gladly been very busy, due to work commitments at College I've had little opportunity to do this.

On returning home though I regularly ride out for Chris Down at weekends and during holidays and he operates near Cullompton and has a 35 strong team of horses. This aids in keeping me fit and the weight down!

I had my first National Hunt winner at Market Rasen on 21st November 2000 on a horse named Eileen Alanna on only my fifth ride. Since then I have been lucky enough to ride a few more winners and many placed horses around the country - from Sedgefield to Cheltenham and Plumpton.

My first National Hunt winner - Eileen Alana

So far in the 2004 Point to Point campaign I've had 3 winners and numerous places but look forward to increasing that amount in the very near future.....

1st win at Cheltenham on the opening day of the 2004 Festival

"Riding Maximise for top trainer Martin Pipe and leading owner David Johnson Darren stormed up the hill at Cheltenham to grap victory close to the line in the £20,000 - 3 mile 110y Kim Muir Amatuer Riders' Handicap Chase as a 40-1 outsider in the 22 horse race".

Site created by Cynthia Stevens - copyright 2004