Iowerth Bamber

Article by Alan Trout

Iowerth Bamber rode two winners under National Hunt rules, one as an amateur and one as a professional. The first success was at Ludlow on April 15, 1948, when Thyme won the Novices’ Hurdle (Division 1) by a neck. Bobby Bates, rider of the runner-up Verteuil, objected to the winner on grounds of bumping and not keeping a straight course after the last flight. However, the stewards not only let the result stand but fined Bates for lodging what they considered to be a frivolous objection

Iowerth turned professional in time for the start of the new (1948/49) season but failed to ride a winner. It was not until March 3, 1950, at Haydock Park, that he had his second, and final, success. As with his first victory, it was gained aboard Thyme, on this occasion in the Tweedledee Handicap Hurdle (Division 1) by four lengths. Thyme was owned and trained near Rhyl by Solly Parker.

Thyme went on to win four races in a row during the 1951/52 campaign but by then Iowerth Bamber had already relinquished his licence.