A well-known jockey made a brief reappearance in the Ascot weighing room on Friday. Bryony Frost, a multiple Grade 1 winner, flew in from France, where she relocated 18 months ago. Despite living there since mid-2024, her French language skills have not improved much, but she finds comfort in the universal language of horses. Frost mentioned, “When I first arrived, I couldn’t speak any French, and I still struggle. Thankfully, horses communicate through emotions, which helps me.”
Frost moved to France in May 2024, shortly after a highly publicized bullying incident involving Robbie Dunn. As she approaches the end of her first full racing season in France, she is the leading female jump jockey in the country, ranking in the top 20 overall for wins and earnings, with prize money nearing €1 million. She appreciates the French racing system, which allows jockeys to race three days and have two days off, providing more personal time and team closeness. She praised the efficiency of France’s train system, which saves considerable time and money, making travel to races smooth and convenient.
Living in central Paris is a new experience for Frost, who grew up in rural Devon. While she misses her family and close friends, she embraces the opportunity to live in a vibrant city like Paris for a year. She is considering buying a small house in Chantilly to establish a base. It took her some time to adjust to the French racing style and different fences, but the new challenges have boosted her confidence and honed her riding skills.
Regarding racing updates, Royal Pagaille and Gray Dawning, who finished first and second in last year’s Betfair Chase, are set to renew their rivalry at Haydock in the first Group 1 race of the British season this Saturday. While Royal Pagaille stole victory last year thanks to a late mistake by Gray Dawning, Gray Dawning is now favored despite Royal Pagaille’s experience on the course. However, Pagaille’s older age and the anticipated ground conditions may work against him.
Other notable races include promising contenders like Adachiyama at Haydock, and at Ascot, horses like Guidry Park, who has shown strong, improving form since April, and the Welsh Champion Hurdle winner Celtic Dino, are expected to perform well. Additionally, Iroko, Ma Shantou, Jpr One, and Shomen Uchi are highlighted as key competitors in upcoming races.
Fan Take: This update is significant for horse racing fans as it highlights the rising profile of Bryony Frost, a trailblazing female jockey adapting to a new racing environment, inspiring gender diversity in the sport. Additionally, the exciting rematch between Royal Pagaille and Gray Dawning promises high drama and competitive thrill, showcasing the sport’s enduring excitement and talent battles.
