Expressions of admiration offered for the deceased horse racing legend, Lester Piggott
Lester Piggott, a legendary figure in horse racing and one of the greatest jockeys in the sport's history, passed away on Sunday at the age of 86 in Switzerland. His influence and impact on the racing world were profound, and he will be deeply missed.
Piggott, known as the 'housewives' favourite', was particularly popular during races like the Derby. He began racing at the tender age of ten and achieved his first win at twelve on a horse named The Chase at Haydock Park in 1948. Throughout his illustrious career, Piggott racked up numerous prestigious victories, including a record nine wins in the Epsom Derby and significant successes in other classic races such as the 2,000 Guineas, 1,000 Guineas, Epsom Oaks, and St Leger.
Piggott's style of race-riding was revolutionary, and his charismatic presence and quiet demeanour made him a fan favourite. He was Champion Jockey eleven times and was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1975 for his contributions to racing.
Willie Carson and Frankie Dettori, two prominent jockeys in their own right, led tributes to Piggott. Carson described him as a person who made everyone better because they had to up their game to compete with him. Dettori, who has taken up the mantle as the sport's flag-bearer, following in Piggott's footsteps, considered Piggott a hero and a good friend. He stated that Piggott's impact on racing and on him personally is second to none.
Carson was drafting a letter to welcome Piggott home after his hospitalization, but Piggott passed away before he could do so. Dettori offered his sincere condolences to Piggott's family and friends. He mentioned that as a professional jockey, they all grew up wanting to be like Piggott.
Piggott's tall stature, unusually so for a flat jockey, earned him the nickname "The Long Fellow." His ability to ride at 8 stone 5 pounds (53 kg) for most of his career was a testament to his dedication and discipline. He was also close to Barney Curley, a late bookmaker turned gambler and charity fund raiser.
Dettori stated that none of them can aspire to be like Piggott. Carson believes that Piggott, along with Gordon Richards and possibly Frankie Dettori, are the three most iconic jockeys in the last 250 years.
Three-time champion Frankie Dettori expressed shock at the news of Piggott's passing. Carson stated that he felt like a part of his life had died with Piggott's passing.
Piggott's legacy will live on in the hearts of racing fans and jockeys alike. He was not just a jockey; he was a legend, an inspiration, and a true icon of the sport.
Sports and racing will surely miss Lester Piggott, as he was a legendary figure in horse racing and a prominent figure in the world of sports. Known for his groundbreaking race-riding style and numerous prestigious victories, including a record nine wins in the Epsom Derby, Piggott's impact on both racing and sports is second to none.
