Monthly Archives: June 2017

Introduction

 

To racing fans of a certain vintage, the name Pat Eddery strikes a certain glint in the eye. Although no longer with us, having died age 63, Pat Eddery is the co-holder of two major records: the most title championships in history, and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe wins record. While his career holds many other landmarks, it’s the sheer variety of wins that the Newbridge-born jockey managed across one of the most stellar careers in history.

 

With over 4,600 races, he’s one of the most prolific racers in all-time alongside being one of the most prolific winners, too.

 

Career Summary

 

As one of the most popular names in the history of jockeying, the impressive Eddery has always stood out as one of the sport’s most interesting and engaging characters. With the most successes in British jockey history, the incredible thing about Eddery is that like other people who reached his levels of success, he never carried the brash personality.

 

Whether it was winning one of his 3 Epsom Derbies or winning his 3 2000 Guineas event, he never bragged. Never one for hogging the limelight or arrogance, the fact he won so many races and claimed so many trophies is one of the most exciting parts of his personality. Many jockeys think they need the personality to go with, but Eddery proves that isn’t the case.

 

Rest in Peace, Pat – you’ll be missed fervently by all.

 

Achievements & Highlights

 

Major Wins – 2000 Guineas (3), 1000 Guineas (1), Epsom Derby (3), Epsom Oaks (3), St Leger Stakes (4).

 

Associations – Polygamy, Grundy, Scintillate, Detroit, Storm Bird, Kings Lake, Golden Fleece, Assert, Lomond, El Gran Senor, Rainbow Quest, Dancing Brave, Moon Madness, Warning, Zafonic, Quest for Fame, Toulon, Moonax, Bosra Sham, Lady Carla, Silver Patriarch.

 

Earnings – ?

 

 

Introduction

 

Known as one of the most impressive jockeys of his era, Michael Fitzgerald won over 1,300 races in a career that almost never took off. The barren spell of the late 80s and early 90s nearly forced him out of the game, but success soon came. Before long, he was one of the most revered and respected jockeys on the planet.

 

Major wins at he likes of the Grand National and Cheltenham seen him rise up the ranks and become a name who is truly revered in the sport that he loves. Despite nearly giving up and moving to the less competitive Australian circuit, Fitzgerald stuck it out and in time became a jockey who, to this day, many still look up to.

 

Career Summary

 

From his first big win at the Grand National in 1996, Fitzgerald went from a contender to one of the best in the business. However, despite the incredible promise of his career, injury was always a problem for him. He had found injuries overly common for a jockey, and his last action was to sustain spinal problems during the 2008 Grand National. At just 38, he had to call it a day with the threat of one day becoming paralyzed if he continued.

 

Planning to retire in 2007, he stayed on for one more year before calling it quits and now works as a presenter and analyst in the racing circuit. He also is a coach at the British Racing School. He also works with Nicky Henderson, a long-time associate, who he works with to mastermind new race tactics and the like.

 

Achievements & Highlights

 

Major Wins – 1,300 career wins. Grand National (1996), Cheltenham Gold Cup (1999), Hennessey Gold Cup (2005).

 

Associations – See More Business, Trabolgan, Rough Quest, Nicky Henderson.

 

Earnings – ?