Chelmsford Makes History with 10am Start – Jockeys’ Reactions in Racing Post

In 2024, four morning meetings are scheduled. Trainer Jamie Osborne stated that the early start doesn’t significantly impact jockeys, as they finish by early afternoon, but it does put pressure on stable staff and racecourse management.

However, jockeys understand the reasons for the early start. Nikki Jones, assistant travelling head girl, mentioned that the proximity of Chelmsford to Newmarket makes the early start less of an issue for them.

She also expressed a preference for the earlier start over Sunday evening meetings, as it allows for time off. For the jockeys involved in the opening race, the earlier start was much preferred over Sunday evenings.

Despite the early start, an 11-year-old horse named Documenting won the feature 7f handicap, with jockey Jack Mitchell expressing admiration for the horse.