What would have been the 20th birthday of jockey Jan Wilson has been marked with the announcement of an award in the rider’s name.
The memorial fund set up by Miss Wilson’s parents has joined the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) to establish an award for teenagers who share the apprentice’s dream of a career in the saddle.
As a harrowing narrative emerged at Leeds Crown Court in the case over the deaths of Miss Wilson and fellow jockey Jamie Kyne in a North Yorkshire flat fire last September, her parents said they were proud to announce an award celebrating their daughter’s memory which would hopefully motivate other youngsters to fulfil their dreams.
The Jan Wilson Memorial Award will be contested by 14 and 15-year-old riders in Northern and Scottish fixtures of the Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.
It aims to encourage riders to compete more often on the Northern circuit, where Jan enjoyed racing.
The rider with the most points will receive a trophy and personalised racing breeches, boots and saddle from Gibsons Saddlers and P. H. Kingsley Ltd, both of whom supported the teenager.
The package also includes media training, a placement at a trainer’s yard of choice and tuition at the Northern Racing College, where Miss Wilson received equicisor training.
Her mother Margaret said, “Jan would have been 20 years old this Saturday and this new Pony Racing award in her memory is a positive way to mark the occasion.
“Jan loved racing and I am delighted to offer our support to young riders like Jan, starting out on their careers.”
She added, “It was important to me that the award is something Jan would have wanted to win herself and I am sure she will be watching down on these young riders following their dream like Jan did. This is for Jan.”
PRA chief executive Rebecca Morgan said, “The PRA board is proud and honoured to introduce the Jan Wilson Memorial Award, at a particularly poignant time for Jan’s family and friends.”
The Jockey Jan Memorial Fund has raised over £9000 and supports projects including clubs which the former Forfar Academy pupil was involved in.
It is also growing through support for items sold at www.jockeyjan.co.uk.