Rugby player’s ‘remarkable rise’ in very different career, he is making huge money
Rugby NewsThursday, 13 March 2025 at 16:45
He could have been representing Wales on the rugby field, but instead, Callum Pritchard’s ‘remarkable rise’ in racing has him quickly becoming one of the most exciting names in the sport.
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Taking the Leap: Why Rugby Wasn't the Future
Just last year, Pritchard was still playing rugby, but the threat of injury in the sport pushed him to call it quits. Although few would argue that having an ambulance trail you as you ride a 500kg animal over hurdles and fences is a less dangerous option.
Just last year, Pritchard was still playing rugby, but the threat of injury in the sport pushed him to call it quits. Although few would argue that having an ambulance trail you as you ride a 500kg animal over hurdles and fences is a less dangerous option.
Big Wins, Bigger Paydays
Now, after a scorching winning streak leading up to Christmas, the former Welsh scrum-half is raking in big cheques and making waves with some serious on-track success. This season alone, Pritchard has earned nearly £170,000 in prize money, and he's gone from complete unknown to a Grade 3 winner, after his stunning victory in the iconic Badger Beer Chase aboard the veteran Al Dancer last month.
Now, after a scorching winning streak leading up to Christmas, the former Welsh scrum-half is raking in big cheques and making waves with some serious on-track success. This season alone, Pritchard has earned nearly £170,000 in prize money, and he's gone from complete unknown to a Grade 3 winner, after his stunning victory in the iconic Badger Beer Chase aboard the veteran Al Dancer last month.
The Unlikely Victory: Badger Beer Chase Triumph
The Sam Thomas-trained 11-year-old, who was sent off at 25-1, was given no chance of winning the prestigious Wincanton prize. But Pritchard, who hails from the same Rhondda schools system that produced Wales rugby stars Kieron Assiratti and Cameron Winnett, guided him to a 10-length triumph, claiming the £48,000 prize live on ITV.
The Sam Thomas-trained 11-year-old, who was sent off at 25-1, was given no chance of winning the prestigious Wincanton prize. But Pritchard, who hails from the same Rhondda schools system that produced Wales rugby stars Kieron Assiratti and Cameron Winnett, guided him to a 10-length triumph, claiming the £48,000 prize live on ITV.
The Winning Streak: Pritchard’s Red-Hot November
And Pritchard's success hasn’t slowed down. A blistering end to November saw him rack up four wins in just six days, including a Huntingdon double on favourites Grove Road and Gold For Alec.
And Pritchard's success hasn’t slowed down. A blistering end to November saw him rack up four wins in just six days, including a Huntingdon double on favourites Grove Road and Gold For Alec.
The Future Looks Bright for Pritchard
Callum Pritchard’s journey from rugby to racing is just getting started, and the future is looking very bright indeed.
Callum Pritchard’s journey from rugby to racing is just getting started, and the future is looking very bright indeed.
EDITORS PICKS:
Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start
Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland’s pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland’s recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he’ll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster’s second row. He’s quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England’s standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl’s dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
Backs
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 1/3
Originally from New Zealand, Gibson-Park has revolutionized Ireland’s attack with his fast tempo and crisp distribution. His quick decision-making will be key in Australia.
10. Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/4
A mercurial fly-half known for his creativity, pinpoint kicking, and unpredictable attacking play, Russell is the X-factor the Lions will need to unlock Australia’s defence.
11. James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
A powerful winger with a cannon of a left boot, Lowe has been a game-changer for Ireland, providing pace, physicality, and superb finishing ability.
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
One of the most destructive centres in world rugby, Aki blends power with slick handling and defensive solidity. His recent form makes him a nailed-on Lions starter.
13. Huw Jones (Scotland) – 1/2
A classy centre with a sharp rugby brain, Jones is known for his attacking lines, pace, and ability to break defences. He has returned to top form for Scotland.
14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
A giant winger with terrifying pace and strength, Van der Merwe has been a try-scoring machine for Scotland and was one of the stars of the 2021 Lions tour.
15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
One of the most consistent full-backs in world rugby, Keenan is rock solid under the high ball, defensively sound, and a dangerous attacking threat.
This projection underscores Ireland's strong presence, with ten players expected to start, reflecting their recent dominance in international rugby. Scotland contributes three players, notably in key backline positions, while England's representation is limited to Maro Itoje in the forwards.
The selection process for the Lions is always a topic of intense debate, influenced by players' form, fitness, and performances in the lead-up to the tour. As the 2025 tour approaches, these odds may shift, especially with upcoming international fixtures and domestic competitions providing players with opportunities to stake their claims.
Note: The odds presented are based on current bookmaker predictions and are subject to change as the tour date nears.
You’ll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz
The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.
From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.
Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You’ll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let’s kick off!
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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