Richard Cowe

Richard Cowe

Article by Alan Trout

Born in 1883, National Hunt jockey Richard Cowe rode on northern courses for nearly a decade before the First World War but never managed more than two winners in a season, and eleven in all. He opened his account by winning a match race at Hamilton Park (its old course, which then staged jump racing) on April 13, 1903. His mount, Hatchel, was odds-on favourite to beat his sole opponent Ruritania, partnered by the experienced amateur rider Adam Scott, and did so by 30 lengths to take the Palace Handicap Chase.

In only one season between 1903 and 1911 did Richard fail to ride at least one winner. He also had two attempts to win the Scottish Grand National. His mount in 1908, Ballinclair, did manage to complete the course, albeit unplaced behind Atrato, ridden by Ivor Anthony. His other mount, Loch Sloy in 1910, finished seventh, although he did win five races for Richard, including his final one when taking the Sherburne Handicap Chase at Shincliffe on March 15, 1911. Richard did not hold a licence after that year. 

Richard Cowe’s winners were, in chronological order:

1. Hartchel, Hamilton Park, April 13, 1903

2. Cashel, Bogside, April 14, 1905

3. Countess Feo, Hamilton Park, September 26, 1905

4. Countess Feo, Manchester, January 18, 1906

5. Threepmuir, Hamilton Park, April 1, 1907

6. Loch Sloy, Perth, September 23, 1908 

7. Loch Sloy, Perth, September 23, 1909

8. Red Clover, Perth, September 24, 1909

9. Loch Sloy, Catterick Bridge, January 1, 1910

10. Loch Sloy, Shincliffe, March 3, 1910

11. Loch Sloy, Shincliffe, March 15, 1911