Franny Norton bid a glorious farewell to the weighing room by riding a treble at Chester on his final day in the saddle. The 54-year-old announced his retirement earlier in the week, and trainers rallied to give him a full book of rides at a venue where he has enjoyed considerable success, including winning the Chester Cup on Making Miracles in 2019.
On this memorable afternoon, Norton had seven mounts, resulting in three victories. After a couple of near misses, he secured his first win aboard the 1-3 favourite Raneenn in the EBF "Confined" Fillies’ Novice Stakes. Trainer William Haggas was thrilled to provide a winner for Norton, recalling a particularly memorable ride he had on a previous horse.
"It was lovely to give him a winner on his last day," Haggas said. "He rode a brilliant race for us a few years ago on Fastnet Tempest at Chester, coming from last to first in a big-field handicap. I’m delighted for him; he deserves it."
Before his penultimate ride on Small Fry in the Camden Hells Handicap, Norton received a guard of honour as he soaked in the crowd's cheers while leaving the weighing room. Sent off as the 11-10 favourite, Small Fry was impressive, pulling away to win by a length and a quarter, raising the roof at Chester.
Reflecting on the day, Norton, who also had a background in amateur boxing, said, "It was like going for a fight. I lost a couple of rounds and now I’m coming back. I’m just going to enjoy the moment."
He capped off his day with a triumph in the concluding Abacus Securities Farewell To Franny Norton Handicap, where Qitaal coasted to a wide-margin victory. A thunderstorm threatened to delay the race, which started with a flag after a 20-minute hold-up, but it didn’t affect Norton’s performance. Given his long association with the Mark Johnston yard, it was fitting that his son Charlie trained the 2-1 favourite.
As he crossed the finish line, Norton punched the air in celebration, fully savouring his last journey to the winner’s enclosure.