Murphy and Balding to play lead roles in new documentary

An exciting new series that provides hitherto unseen access and insight to the world of racing will hit the screens this month.

Filmed from autumn 2020 through to the summer of 2021, the four-part documentary series, Horsepower, captures a momentous period in the lives and careers of its two main protagonists, Andrew Balding and Oisin Murphy.

Based at the beautiful and historic training stables of Kingsclere in Hampshire, Balding is striving to take his yard to the next level. To do so he must achieve success at the highest grade, in the elite races such as the Derby and at Royal Ascot.

Meanwhile, his principal jockey, Murphy, is facing the prospect of a lengthy ban after a positive test for cocaine allied with the fear of not knowing whether he will subsequently be able to re-build his burgeoning career. He was subsequently given a lengthy ban and has not been in action this year.

Balding said: “In the 20 years since I've been in charge at Kingsclere no one else has been given the level of access provided to the Horsepower team for this series.

“Viewers get to go behind the scenes and see how a racehorse trainer and his team operate, including the meticulous preparation ahead of races both abroad and in the UK, culminating with the five days of Royal Ascot. Horsepower showcases the highs and lows of this incredible sport and I am very proud to be a part of it.”

Three-time Champion jockey Murphy added: "All the ups and downs of being a champion jockey are laid bare. This is where I tell my story.

“I allowed the Horsepower cameras to see me at my best and my worst because I want people to understand the pressures that come with success for a jockey. The series brilliantly captures this during what was a very challenging time in my career.”

Horsepower is produced and directed by Dave James and John Maxse from Equine Productions. Lorton Entertainment, the makers of the hit documentary Rooney, have announced it will launch on September 23 on Prime Video in UK and Ireland.

Julian Bird, CEO Lorton Entertainment, said: “Horsepower tells a story that has not been covered in this manner or depth before and in doing so reveals so many fascinating and moving storylines It will enthral those with an existing interest in racing and intrigue and delight newcomers to the sport.”