George Stevens is widely recognised as the most accomplished jockey in the illustrious history of the Grand National, a revered steeplechase event. Born in 1829, Stevens emerged as a remarkable talent who left an indelible mark on the racing world.
Throughout his career, Stevens showcased his exceptional riding skills and an innate understanding of the Grand National’s demanding course. His triumphs in the race are legendary, as he secured victory an unprecedented five times, a record that remains unmatched.
Stevens’ first taste of Grand National glory came in 1856 aboard the horse Freetrader. This victory proved to be a catalyst for his subsequent accomplishments. He continued to dominate the race, achieving remarkable triumphs aboard Emblem in 1863, Emblematic in 1864, The Colonel in 1869, and Regal in 1876.
What set Stevens apart was his ability to navigate the formidable obstacles and cover the gruelling distance of the Grand National. He demonstrated an unrivalled blend of skill, courage, and finesse, earning the admiration of his peers and fans alike.
Beyond his success in the saddle, Stevens made significant contributions to the racing world even after retiring. He shared his wealth of knowledge and expertise, mentoring and training aspiring jockeys, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends his remarkable achievements.
George Stevens’ name is synonymous with Grand National greatness. His remarkable track record and unyielding dedication serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of horse racing and the unparalleled artistry of jockeys. Stevens’ name will forever be etched in the annals of the Grand National as the most successful jockey in its storied history.
Arrogate, the magnificent American Thoroughbred, proudly holds the esteemed title of the highest-earning racehorse in the history of the sport. Under the expert guidance of renowned trainer Bob Baffert, Arrogate showcased extraordinary prowess and raced his way to unparalleled financial success.
Born with an indomitable spirit and breathtaking speed, Arrogate left an indelible mark on the racing world. His journey to the top began in 2016 when he burst onto the scene with a resounding victory in the prestigious Travers Stakes, obliterating the competition and setting a new track record at Saratoga Race Course. This groundbreaking performance served as a precursor to his future triumphs, hinting at the remarkable feats he was destined to achieve.
However, it was in the following year that Arrogate truly etched his name into racing lore. In the 2016 Breeders’ Cup Classic, held at the iconic Santa Anita Park, he faced off against a field of formidable contenders. With a breathtaking display of strength, speed, and sheer determination, Arrogate emerged victorious, securing not only the admiration of racing enthusiasts but also a significant portion of the purse.
Arrogate’s crowning achievement came in the 2017 edition of the inaugural Pegasus World Cup Invitational, held at Gulfstream Park. This high-stakes event saw Arrogate unleash his unparalleled abilities, surging past his rivals with an awe-inspiring burst of speed and crossing the finish line in first place. With this remarkable victory, Arrogate not only solidified his status as a champion but also earned a substantial sum, pushing his career earnings to unprecedented heights.
Nijinsky, the magnificent bay colt, stands as the only horse to have accomplished the remarkable feat of winning the British Triple Crown in the last century. His awe-inspiring triumphs captivated the racing world and solidified his status as an icon in the annals of thoroughbred racing.
The year was 1970, and Nijinsky’s exceptional talent and unwavering determination were on full display as he conquered the challenging trio of races comprising the British Triple Crown: the 2000 Guineas, the Epsom Derby, and the St. Leger Stakes. With Lester Piggott, the esteemed jockey, guiding him to victory, Nijinsky showcased an extraordinary combination of speed, stamina, and sheer willpower.
The journey began at Newmarket’s Rowley Mile in the 2000 Guineas, where Nijinsky surged to an impressive win, displaying his incredible versatility. Next came the Epsom Derby, a test of both skill and endurance. In a thrilling display of dominance, Nijinsky triumphed, leaving his competitors trailing in his wake. Finally, the St. Leger Stakes at Doncaster provided the ultimate challenge. Nijinsky’s unyielding spirit shone through as he surged ahead, claiming victory and etching his name in racing history.
Nijinsky’s Triple Crown achievement in the last century left an indelible mark on the sport, evoking memories of past champions and setting a standard for future generations. His exceptional ability, coupled with the expert training and guidance of Vincent O’Brien, his legendary trainer, elevated him to legendary status.
Beyond the realm of racing, Nijinsky’s legacy transcended the sport itself. His Triple Crown victory resonated with fans worldwide, inspiring a sense of awe and admiration. His name became synonymous with greatness and represented the pinnacle of equine athleticism.
Golden Sixty emerged as the frontrunner in terms of prize money won on the racetrack in 2023. With an impressive total of HK$147,926,000 (approximately $18.2 million USD) in winnings as of June 28, 2023, this 6-year-old gelding has galloped his way to the top. Trained by John Size and ridden by Vincent Ho, Golden Sixty has showcased his exceptional skills by triumphing in 17 out of his 19 races, including a remarkable three victories in the FWD Champions Mile. This remarkable success has solidified his status as a formidable force in the racing world.
Coming in as the second-highest earner for the year is Tapit Trice, a promising 3-year-old colt. Having accumulated HK$883,650 (around $110,000 USD) in prize money, Tapit Trice has proven his potential on the track. Under the guidance of trainer Todd Pletcher and jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., this talented colt, owned by Whisper Hill Farm, has displayed remarkable speed and skill.
Securing the third spot among the top earners is Derma Sotogake, a 4-year-old colt. Having amassed HK$875,000 (approximately $109,000 USD) in prize money, Derma Sotogake has showcased his prowess under the training of Yoshito Yahagi and the guidance of jockey Christophe Lemaire. Owned by Northern Farm, this impressive colt has demonstrated a combination of speed, agility, and determination on the racetrack.
It is a testament to the trainers when it comes to seeing these horses perform. Of course, their owners play a role but collectively, they all add to the excitement that unfolds on the track. So, it is clear to see that 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year when it comes to earnings, meaning that there is much more to come.
For the uninitiated, the apprentice jockeys championship is decided on the number of winners ridden on the Flat, on turf and synthetic surfaces, between the Guineas Festival at Newmarket in early May and British Champions Day at Ascot in October. The champion apprentice jockey in 2022 was Benoit De La Sayette who, tellingly, became the first ‘claimer’ employed by Newmarket trainer John Gosden for 29 years.
De La Sayette had his first ride in public on Bosphorus, trained by Gosden, at Chelmsford on November 23, 2020; the Godolphin-owned colt ran green throughout and finished last of nine, beaten 14½ lengths. However, the rising star rode his first winner, Hint of Stars, trained by Kevin Philippart De Foy, at Newcastle on December 28, 2020 and went on to ride five more from his first 16 rides.
After such a stellar start to his career, it would be fair to say that De La Sayette may well have become champion apprentice in 2021, but for a six-month ban – albeit backdated – imposed by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Disciplinary Panel after he tested positive for metabolites of cocaine and admitted to taking the drug ‘three or four times’. However, he returned to the saddle on October 17, 2021 and, for much of the 2022 season, was neck-and-neck with his nearest pursuer, Harry Davies, in the apprentice jockeys championship.
De La Sayette finally sealed the deal with victory on Running Lion, trained by Gosden, at Chelmsford on October 13, 2022 giving him an unassailable, six-winner lead over Davies heading to British Champions Day at Ascot two days later. All told, he rode 61 winners from 341 rides, at a strike rate of 18%, and won £735,945 in prize money. After officially collecting the champion apprentice trophy, De La Sayette paid tribute to his employer, saying, ‘I’m especially grateful to John and Thady Gosden, as well as the whole Clarehaven team. I have learnt so much from the amazing team there.’