JJ Hamblett, known for his time in the boy band Union J, is set to participate in a charity horse race at Doncaster Racecourse on September 11. Hamblett recently shared insights into his career shift, stating a desire for something "extra" and a feeling of missing a "buzz" that he has found in horse racing.
He described the physical demands of being a jockey, noting, "I'm quite tall for a jockey, I'm 5ft 9in (1.75m)... but I did struggle with my weight." Hamblett revealed he reached a weight of "about 8st 9lb (55kg)" during his efforts to maintain a jockey's physique, which he now views as light in retrospect. The challenges of managing his weight, combined with the difficulties of traveling for races and a lack of opportunities at the time, contributed to his decision to explore other avenues.
Following his pursuits in horse racing, Hamblett ventured into acting before joining an online platform for creative professionals. It was through this network that he reconnected with Jaymi Hensley, who would become his bandmate. Recalling their reunion, Hamblett humorously recounted Hensley's remark, "The only reason I let you in is because you had a six pack."
Union J was initially formed in 2011 as a trio named Triple J. The group gained wider recognition when they auditioned for the ninth series of The X Factor. George Shelley joined as the fourth member during the competition, and the band, subsequently renamed Union J, finished fourth under the mentorship of judge Louis Walsh.