THE female jockey racing legend Peter Scudamore is tipping for the top has been wooed to Bahrain by a bumper package.
Stunning Rhona Pindar was offered return flights, smart car, petrol expenses, medical insurance, salary, and plush apartment in a mammoth three-month deal.
She flew from Heathrow within 48 hours, and won on her second ride.
Champion trainer Allan Smith welcomed her into the ruling family’s luxury stables, where she helped care for his 70 horses, which included her winner, Good News.
Rhona, 24, leapt at the chance to gain unique experience competing against some of the world’s best male jockeys in a foreign environment.
So it’s hardly surprising that Scu is predicting so much from this talented, single-minded Scot.
The eight-times jumps champion praised: “Rhona has everything it takes to be a very good jockey.
“Going to Bahrain to get experience against top international riders confirms her commitment, and desire to do well.
“It’s not something many young ladies would be happy to do.”
Scu first noted Rhona’s riding potential when she turned up at his partner Lucinda Russell’s powerful Kinross stable straight from school.
He added: “She impressed me right from the start. It was clear she had ability, mental strength, and ambition to go all the way.
“I have no doubt that that will happen provided she gets the opportunities.”
Rhona begins work at the royal stables at three in the morning, when it’s so hot she has to ride in a T-shirt.
After clocking off at 6.30 a.m, her subsequent daily routine is a shower, short sleep, and then off to the gym or relax on the beach.
Rhona told SE: “Bahrain is a great place to learn.
“I couldn’t believe the Royal Stables was offering me return air tickets, a Toyota car, expenses to run it, a cosy apartment, insurances, salary, and excellent working conditions.
“Peter and Lucinda gave me a great start before I joined Karl Burke’s stable in Middleham, but I’m moving next door to Liam Bailey, where I’m hoping to get more opportunities.”
Bailey said last night: “I’m delighted Rhona has joined us. I’ve seen quite a bit of her riding for my neighbour Karl Burke, and I’ve been impressed.
“I hope to give her plenty of chances, and she’ll be well supported by the stable’s owners, who always want to help young riders.”
Rhona’s immediate programme includes working hard in the gym to add a little strength to her slender frame.
She adds: “I watch footage of every single horse I ride, and I beat myself up if I see I’ve done something wrong. I’m a huge self-critic.
“It’s all part of my drive to be good at my job, and not to let people down.”
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