Racing: Major Dick Hern dies, aged 81

Dick Hern, one of the giants of the training profession, has died at the age of 81. In a 40-year career Hern, who retired in 1997, was champion trainer four times, won 16 British Classic races including Derbys with Troy, Henbit and Nashwan, and handled Brigadier Gerard, arguably the greatest British racehorse of the 20th Century.

Major Hern was a trainer and horseman of the old school. Despite breaking his neck in a hunting accident in 1984 and later undergoing major heart surgery he carried on working and in 1989 was able to doff his hat to Nashwan from his wheelchair after the superb colt won the 1989 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket. With success also came disappointments and controversy; the uncerimonious sacking of Joe Mercer as stable jockey and the mysterious flop of hot favourite Gorytus in a Dewhurst Stakes.

And in 1990 Hern himself was ousted from West Ilsley stables in Berkshire by their owner, the Queen. Hern's Classic successes included Dunfermline's Oaks and St Leger in the Royal colours in Silver Jubilee year.

To the outsider Hern, a private man, appeared curmudgeonly and autocratic. But one of the key factors in his success was the loyalty and dedication he inspired in his staff.

Hern's interest in the sport he loved remained to the last. Two weeks ago Shadow Dancing, a filly he bred in partnership with his last stable jockey, Willie Carson, won the Cheshire Oaks. The Arundel trainer John Dunlop said: "He was one of the bravest men you could meet and the greatest trainer I have known."