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Fantastic Aintree jockey, whose record in his nine Grand Nationals (1967-76, except 1972) was 31FFR1123, i.e. he was in the first three on all six occasions when he finished the race, including two victories on Red Rum, and one on Red Alligator. In my opinion he would have beaten Rag Trade in 1976 had he retained the ride on Red Rum; he still finished third on Eyecatcher. It was my first visit to watch the National live, and I felt very disappointed for Bryan. Apparently he was a very pleasant man, too.
As a racing enthusiast for over 50 years I have always regarded Peter O’Sullevan and Simon Holt as the two outstanding commentators of their respective generations, both a very long way in front of their contemporaries. Both also share(d) genuine concerns for the welfare of horses who appear to be injured, and express(ed) delight when a stricken horse got to its feet, apparently unscathed. They always select(ed) the most appropriate words to convey the scene to the racing public. It will be very disappointing indeed if Simon’s superlative commentaries and race-reading skills are lost to terrestrial television at the end of the year when ITV takes over from Channel 4.
How fantastic to see so many former winners parading at Aintree on Channel 4 this afternoon ! Lord Gyllene (97 winner), Red Marauder (01), Bindaree (02), Amberleigh House (04), Hedgehunter (05), Silver Birch (07), Comply or Die (08), Mon Mome (09), Don’t Push It (10), Ballabriggs (11), Neptune Collonges (12) and Auroras Encore (13) all looked magnificent. In addition Mick Fitzgerald confirmed that Rough Quest (96) is still alive at the age of 30, whilst Papillon (00), Montys Pass (03) and Numbersixvalverde (06) are also still with us, I believe, although perhaps they didn’t make the journey from Ireland ? Pineau de Re (14) and Many Clouds (15) are still in training. If Many Clouds doesn’t win today we shall have 19 National winners still going strong by the end of the race. What memories they have provided us with ! Let’s hope that all the horses and jockeys arrive back safely. Good luck to them all !
