'It's been a tough journey' - apprentice returns to saddle after betting ban

Finley Marsh returns to the saddle for the first time since November 2020 when he partners Income for his boss Richard Hughes in the 5f handicap (4.35) at Goodwood on Saturday.

The 23-year-old rider, who recorded 28 winners in 2018, has served a six-month ban from racing after admitting to betting on horses during a time when he suffered from a gambling addiction.

Marsh received dispensation to continue working at the Lambourn stable of Hughes, and aims to repay the former three-time champion jockey by successfully rebuilding his career.

“It’s been a long, tough journey,” Marsh said. “I'm both nervous and excited. What I’ve gone through has made me want to be a jockey more than ever before. I was very immature when I rode in the past, and didn’t really grasp how important it was to me.”

Hughes, who struggled with alcoholism at one point in his life, has guided Marsh through some difficult times.

Richard Hughes: has acted as a guide for young jockey Finley MarshCredit: Alan Crowhurst (Getty Images)

“Richard has never left my side when he could quite easily have done,” Marsh said. “He has been there for me every single day. I owe him everything. If he’d left me I wouldn’t be able to resume my career.”

Hughes always had a special affinity with Goodwood as a rider, and has passed on his expert knowledge of the Sussex track to Marsh.

“I’ve had a few wins for the boss at Goodwood,” Marsh said. “I remember walking the track with him. It’s almost scary what he knows about that place – precise points about various parts of the track, and where the best places are to fill up your horse.

“Income hasn’t been on the grass for a while, but is definitely quick enough for a five-furlong sprint at Goodwood and should give me a decent run. I think she’s got a good chance.”

Irrespective of how he fares aboard Income, Marsh acknowledges that big challenges lie ahead as he seeks to get back to race-riding on a daily basis.

“It will be a slow process at first as I try and get some contacts back,” he said. “It will be slow and tough, but I’m ready for it both mentally and physically. I’m fitter and stronger than I’ve ever been.”

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