Harry Cobden, the 2023/24 champion jockey, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter as the retained rider for owner JP McManus across Britain and Ireland. The 27-year-old, who has spent the past ten years as the leading jockey for legendary trainer Paul Nicholls at Ditcheat, will switch allegiances at the end of the current season in May.
Veteran jockey Charlie Swan, who rode McManus’s champion Istabraq to multiple Cheltenham and Irish titles, is confident that Cobden’s future is bright. Speaking to the Press Association, Swan praised Cobden’s talent and explained why the move makes perfect sense: “Harry’s a very, very good rider. It’s clear why JP has chosen him. Paul’s yard doesn’t have the volume of top-quality horses it once did, and this opportunity offers Harry access to many promising horses. It’s one of the best jobs in National Hunt racing.”
Though Cobden has limited experience racing in Ireland, Swan believes the transition will be smooth. “The tracks in Ireland share similarities with those in England. Dividing his time between the two countries won’t be a big adjustment for him,” he added.
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Former McManus retained rider Barry Geraghty also applauded Cobden’s appointment. “It’s a top job with incredible depth of quality—from recent Gold Cup and Ryanair winners to smart novices. Harry is perfectly suited for this role due to his patient riding style, which aligns with JP’s preferences. His skills over fences and hurdles, combined with his horsemanship, make him an excellent fit.”
Geraghty shared insights on the pressure accompanying such a prestigious role, advising that familiarity brings comfort: “At first, there’s internal pressure, but as you settle in, you realise you’re working for someone with great understanding of the sport.”
Nicky Henderson, who has trained numerous McManus champions including Binocular, Buveur d’Air, Epatante, and Jonbon, expressed his confidence in Cobden despite the jockey’s current winless streak under his training. “That’s down to my training, not his riding,” Henderson joked. “He’s undoubtedly a very good jockey.”
With Cobden joining McManus’s esteemed racing operation, expectations are high for a fruitful partnership spanning some of the most competitive races in Britain and Ireland.