The history of horse racing in the UK is rich and storied, marked by the achievements of its most famous jockeys. These riders, through skill, determination, and an innate connection with their mounts, have become legends of the sport. From Lester Piggott’s unparalleled success in classic races to Frankie Dettori’s iconic ‘Magnificent Seven’ at Ascot, and AP McCoy’s unmatched record in jump racing, these jockeys have not only dominated competitions but have also left an indelible mark on horse racing history. Their careers, filled with thrilling victories and remarkable achievements, continue to inspire both fans and aspiring jockeys alike.
Lester Piggott
Lester Piggott, born on November 5, 1935, in Wantage, Berkshire, England, was one of the most renowned jockeys in Thoroughbred flat racing, with a career that saw him becoming the British riding champion 11 times between 1960 and 1982. He was celebrated for his tall stature for a flat jockey, standing at 5 ft 8 in, and his innovative race-riding style, which was widely adopted by peers globally. Piggott’s remarkable career included more than 4,493 career wins on the Flat in Britain, with around 5,300 wins worldwide.
Epsom Record Breaker
This includes a record nine Epsom Derby victories and 30 Classic wins in Britain from 25 individual horses. His mastery was not only evident through his triumphs but also his ability to maintain a racing weight significantly below his natural weight through rigorous discipline, often reflected in the starting price of the horses he rode.”
During his illustrious career, Piggott rode for many of the top trainers and owners. In 1980, his partnership with the Sangster–O’Brien combination concluded, and he became stable jockey for Henry Cecil, British flat racing Champion Trainer, at Warren Place. This period saw him continue to achieve high-profile wins, including victories in the Prix de Diane, 2000 Guineas Stakes, Benson and Hedges Gold Cup, and Irish Champion Stakes. His affiliations with esteemed trainers and owners were pivotal in cementing his legendary status in horse racing.
Among his multitude of major victories were wins at the Derby, St. Leger, 2,000 Guineas, and the Oaks, alongside significant international races. Nijinsky, one of the greatest champions Piggott ever rode, won the Triple Crown in 1970, a feat that highlighted Piggott’s skill and tenacity as a jockey. Piggott’s relationship with the sport was not without its challenges; notably, his career was temporarily halted when he was convicted of tax fraud, which led to a brief imprisonment and the stripping of his Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) honor. However, Piggott made a triumphant return to racing in 1990 and continued to achieve significant wins before officially retiring in 1995.
Piggott’s impact on horse racing was such that the annual jockey awards, The Lesters, were named in his honor, recognizing his indelible mark on the sport. He passed away on May 29, 2022, in Switzerland, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be remembered in the annals of horse racing history.
AP McCoy
Sir Anthony Peter McCoy, OBE, widely known as AP McCoy (sometimes referred to a Tony McCoy), is a former National Hunt horse racing jockey from Northern Ireland. His career is decorated with numerous records and achievements that have solidified his place as one of the greatest jockeys in the history of the sport.
McCoy’s professional career spanned from his first winner in 1992 until his retirement in 2015.
20 Times Champion Jockey
During this time, he achieved the remarkable feat of being named Champion Jockey for 20 consecutive seasons, a testament to his dominance in the sport. He rode a record 4,358 winners, a milestone that underscores his skill, determination, and longevity in horse racing.
Throughout his illustrious career, McCoy raced for several notable trainers and was closely associated with Irish racehorse owner J.P. McManus from 2004 until his retirement. He was often seen in the green and gold hooped silks of McManus, riding many of the horses trained by Jonjo O’Neill, among others. This partnership was highly successful, bringing numerous victories and further elevating McCoy’s status in the racing community.
McCoy’s career is studded with major wins across the most prestigious races in the jump racing calendar. Among his most notable achievements are two Cheltenham Gold Cup victories and wins in the Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase, and the King George VI Chase.
Finally Winning The Grand National
However, one of his most celebrated victories came in 2010 when he won the Grand National on Don’t Push It, a win that was particularly significant as it was the race that had eluded him for many years. McCoy’s Grand National victory was a defining moment in his career and contributed to his being named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2010. In terms of honors, McCoy’s contributions to horse racing have been widely recognized. He was awarded an MBE in 2003, followed by an OBE in the Queen’s 2010 Birthday Honours for his services to horse racing. Additionally, his Grand National win and his unparalleled record of career victories played a pivotal role in his receiving the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 2010.
McCoy’s career statistics are staggering, with records for the most winners in a season (289 in 2001-02) and becoming the first jump jockey to ride 4,000 winners, achieving this milestone on Mountain Tunes at Towcester in November 2013. His final total of 4,357 career victories is a testament to his exceptional talent and hard work.
Frankie Dettori
Lanfranco “Frankie” Dettori, born December 15, 1970, in Milan, Italy, is a celebrated Italian jockey who has had an illustrious career spanning over 35 years, primarily based in England. Dettori has been recognized as the British flat racing Champion Jockey three times (1994, 1995, and 2004) and has an impressive record of winning 287 Group 1 races, including 23 winners of the British Classic Races.
Dettori’s early years were marked by a move from Italy to Newmarket, England, at the age of 14, where he began his career in horse racing, first as a stable lad and later as an apprentice jockey. His first win in Britain came at Goodwood on June 9, 1987, riding Lizzy Hare for trainer Luca Cumani.
The Magnificent Seven
One of his most notable achievements was riding all seven winners on British Festival of Racing Day at Ascot Racecourse on September 28, 1996, a feat that highlighted his exceptional talent but also underscored the importance of placing each way bets for more strategic wagering.”
International Racing History
Over his career, Dettori has accumulated numerous major wins across the globe, including six victories in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, seven wins in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and two Epsom Derby winners (Authorized in 2007 and Golden Horn in 2015). He has also claimed the Dubai World Cup three times and has multiple wins in the Japan Cup and Breeders’ Cup series, showcasing his international success and versatility as a jockey.
The King of Ascot
Among his other remarkable achievements are 77 Royal Ascot wins, making him the leading jockey at this prestigious event seven times. Dettori’s notable horses include Golden Horn, Enable, and Stradivarius, each contributing to his legacy with significant victories.
Dettori was honored with an Honorary MBE in 2000 for his contributions to horse racing. Despite facing challenges, including a six-month suspension in 2012 after failing a drug test, Dettori’s resilience and passion for the sport have seen him continue to compete at the highest level, including a move to California in late 2023 to continue racing internationally. Dettori’s impact on horse racing is immense, with his career showcasing not only his incredible skill and dedication as a jockey but also his charisma and popularity among racing fans worldwide.
Ruby Walsh
Rupert “Ruby” Walsh, born on May 14, 1979, in Kill, County Kildare, Ireland, is one of the most acclaimed Irish former jockeys in National Hunt racing. Throughout his career, Walsh won numerous prestigious races and garnered a multitude of honors, showcasing his exceptional talent in the sport.
Champion Jockey Record
Walsh was champion Irish jump jockey twelve times between 1998/99 and 2016/17, a testament to his dominance in the sport. His unique arrangement with top stables both in Ireland and England, predominantly riding for Willie Mullins in Ireland and formerly for Paul Nicholls in England, played a significant role in his success.
Notable Wins
His achievements include setting a record at the Cheltenham Festival with 59 wins and being the leading jockey at the festival 11 times. Notably, Walsh won the Australian Grand National on Bashboy in August 2015 and announced his retirement in May 2019 after riding Kemboy to victory in the Punchestown Gold Cup, marking his 213th Grade One win. Walsh’s major wins are numerous and include victories at the Grand National, Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, and the Queen Mother Champion Chase among others. He achieved significant success with horses like Kauto Star, Hurricane Fly, and Faugheen. Walsh’s influence extended beyond Ireland and Britain, as evidenced by his wins in the Grande Course de Haies d’Auteuil and the Nakayama Grand Jump, highlighting his international acclaim.
Injuries were a recurring challenge in Walsh’s career, with serious incidents including a broken leg and the removal of his spleen, yet his resilience and determination always saw him return to the sport he loved.
Walsh’s illustrious career is not just remembered for the victories and titles but also for the sheer willpower, dedication, and passion he displayed throughout his years in racing, making him a true legend in the world of National Hunt racing.
Sir Gordon Richards
Sir Gordon Richards is celebrated as one of the most successful jockeys in British flat racing history. Over his career, he amassed an impressive 4,870 wins from 21,843 rides, clinching the title of Champion Jockey 26 times. Richards made history in 1953 as the only flat jockey to be knighted, showcasing his unparalleled skill and integrity in the sport. His legacy is honored by the Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown Park, a testament to his enduring influence in horse racing.
Sir Gordon Richards’ illustrious career included significant victories like winning the Derby Stakes in 1953 with Pinza, a victory that stood out as a crowning achievement. He also celebrated wins in other British Classic Races, including multiple victories in the 1000 and 2000 Guineas Stakes, the Oaks Stakes, and the St Leger Stakes. His triumphs weren’t just confined to the UK; Richards’ prowess was recognized globally, making him a legend in the world of horse racing
Ryan Moore
Ryan Moore, born on September 18, 1983, is an acclaimed English flat racing jockey.
Ryan Moore’s career is distinguished by his early success, quickly becoming the British flat racing Champion Apprentice in 2003, and later Champion Jockey three times. His talent has led him to ride for top stables, including a significant role as the first-choice jockey for Aidan O’Brien’s Ballydoyle operation.
Wins on The International Stage
Moore’s major wins span globally, including victories in the Epsom Derby, Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and Breeders’ Cup Turf, showcasing his skill at the highest level of racing worldwide.
Career Highlights
With over 170 Group or Grade 1 wins, his career highlights include victories in the Epsom Derby (2010, 2013, 2023), Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2010, 2016), and the Breeders’ Cup Turf (2008, 2009, 2013, 2015, 2023). Moore has been honored as the Longines World’s Best Jockey four times (2014, 2016, 2021, 2023)