RIP Pat Eddery

Just been announced that Pat Eddery has died aged 63

Sad news, almost 12 years to the day since his last race. He was one of the all time greats. RIP Pat

Legendary jockey Pat Eddery has passed away aged 63.

The Irishman enjoyed a glittering career and was champion Flat jockey 11 times and a winner of 14 British Classics. He began his career back in 1967 and rode 4,633 winners in British flat races, a figure exceeded only by Sir Gordon Richards. He retired in 2003 and went into training alongside brother Paul with success.

Eddery's achievements put him on record as one of the greatest jockeys of all time. He won 14 British Classics, including three Derbys aboard Grundy (1975), Golden Fleece (1982) and Quest For Fame (1990).

However, his performance aboard Dancing Brave in the 1986 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is widely regarded as one of the most memorable of his career. In one of the classiest fields ever assembled, Eddery made his challenge last, down the centre of the track, to snatch victory.

Other famous successes include those of Pebbles at the Breeders' Cup, Silver Patriarch in the St Leger - which marked his 4,000th winner - and Zafonic in the 2000 Guineas.

Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager to Prince Khalid Abdullah, believes Eddery's championship tally was testament to his abilities in a perceived golden era for jockeys.

"He spanned the greatest era for jockeys ever. Lester Piggott, Steve Cauthen, Willie Carson, all were exceptional yet Pat's ability was unquestioned," said Grimthorpe.

Eddery, who had been suffering from ill health of late, began a training career following his retirement, with the highlight being the victory of Hearts Of Fire in a Group One in France.

He leaves behind three children, two daughters and a son.