Jamie Hamblett, former jockey turned pop singer, is preparing for a return to horse racing 15 years after leaving the sport to pursue a career in music. Hamblett, 38, will compete in the Leger Legends charity race at Doncaster Racecourse tomorrow, marking his first ride in the race since making his professional debut there 21 years ago.
Hamblett first gained public attention as a member of the boy band Union J, which formed in 2012 and gained fame through the ninth series of The X Factor, finishing fourth. The band’s lineup included Josh Cuthbert, Jaymi Hensley, and George Shelley, alongside Hamblett. Over the years, the group has maintained a connection to music, with plans for an anniversary tour and potential new releases next year.
Before his music career, Hamblett was an apprentice to renowned trainer Sir Michael Stoute and rode 23 winners from 268 races, often carrying the late Queen’s colours. Among notable rides was Notnowcato, a horse remembered for its 2007 Coral-Eclipse victory. After quitting racing to join Union J, Hamblett now seeks to reconnect with the sport.
The Leger Legends race is a charity event involving retired jockeys, raising funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund and the National Horseracing College. This year, 16 former jockeys will participate, including prominent names such as Joe Fanning, seventh on Britain's all-time Flat winners list, and Adam Kirby, winner of the Derby on Adayar. Frankie Dettori was slated to compete but withdrew due to injuries from a recent car accident.
Hamblett has been undergoing a rigorous training regime under jockey coach Michael Hills at Peter O’Sullevan House, including simulator work and gym sessions. His training has been overseen by his partner, former Group One-winning jockey Hayley Turner, who has pushed him through demanding fitness routines and loaned him her 2011 July Cup-winning saddle. Hamblett’s mount for the race, Berry Clever, is trained by Chris Dwyer, with whom he previously rode winners.
Reflecting on his return, Hamblett acknowledged the challenges of regaining fitness after a long hiatus but expressed excitement about reconnecting with the racing community. He highlighted the unique adrenaline rush of race riding, comparing it to his experiences performing in front of large audiences while in the band.
Hamblett’s former Union J bandmates plan to attend the event, with Shelley and Hensley expected at Doncaster and Cuthbert participating in an ultramarathon elsewhere. Hamblett praised their support and looked forward to sharing this chapter with them.
As he prepares to ride in the Leger Legends, Hamblett emphasized his enduring passion for horses and the racing world. He welcomed the chance to return to the sport, noting the importance of its charitable contributions and the strong community spirit. Whether he wins or loses, he expressed a desire to continue participating in future events, with Turner also signing up for upcoming races, potentially setting the stage for a competitive reunion.
Hamblett’s journey underscores a rare blend of professional sports and entertainment careers, making his comeback a notable story in Britain’s racing and music scenes.