Riding High: Dark horse Scott is all saddled up

NEIGH way! A construction boss is losing a stone and a half so he can compete as a professional jockey.

Scott Lowther has never raced on a horse before and his wife thinks he’s “mad”.

But, after winning a competition, he will now line up against full-time jockeys in a fundraising race at world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse.

The 43-year-old said: “Racing is dangerous but I’m more worried about trying to lose weight.

“When it gets nearer to the race I’ll be petrified.”

His wife Janet, 52, reckons he’s “lost the plot”.

“He’s mad for doing this,” she said. “These races can be quite dangerous. But I’m proud of him too because he’s doing it for a good cause.”

Scott is set to take on six renowned riders, including Ben Hobday, Nick Skelton and Tina Cook.

Ahead of the event, the builder has to shed a stone and a half to meet the 11st 12lb weight limit and has been training on a simulator.

Until now Scott, from Waterbeck, Dumfries and Galloway, has only ever ridden for fun.

He said: “I’m doing some running every week.

“I’m also riding out at the stables twice a week. I’ve lost eight pounds already.”

Scott, one of seven competitors selected from around 600 entrants, is on a special high-protein diet put together by an industry expert.

“I eat six times a day,” he said. “Even before I go to bed I eat a yoghurt or protein drink.

“Making the correct weight is all about eating the right stuff at the right time.”

After taking up riding eight years ago, his first jaunt ended in disaster. He said: “I got a black eye, a cracked rib and a cut eye.”

However, he’s much more skilled these days and is hoping for a great race on his trusty steed Toledo Gold.

It is hoped the event, under official rules, will raise at least £100,000 to be split between two charities – Bob Champion Cancer Trust and Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity.

Scott added: “Cancer doesn’t miss anyone these days. Everyone is affected by it and anything I can do to help is a good thing.”

To donate, go to: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/scottlowther.