Legendary Trainer’s Impact Through the Eyes of His Peers and Iconic Horses
With Sir Michael Stoute’s legendary career seemingly concluded, racing professionals and peers reflect on his influence on the sport and his skill in developing top-level talent. Here's what they had to say about him:
- Kieren Fallon, former stable jockey: "He was always the trainer I wanted to ride for. He was firm but fair, letting you figure things out on your own. We shared great years together, and there was only one minor blip in all the rides."
- Sir Mark Prescott, fellow trainer: "He is the most focused trainer I know. When he had a good horse, he centred everything on it. His ability to nurture jockeys made him a tough trainer to beat on the world stage."
- Chris Richardson, managing director of Cheveley Park Stud: "An iconic trainer, Michael had an amazing skill to read horses from a gallop. You knew he was pleased when you’d hear a ‘bum diddy bum’ and he’d whistle Don’t Cry For Me Argentina."
- John Gosden, Newmarket trainer: "He was a champion trainer with an extraordinary feel for his horses. Alongside Henry Cecil, he made each British racing season unforgettable."
- Bruce Raymond, former jockey and manager: "He’s trained every winner in the world twice! No one can tell Sir Michael what to do, and there’s probably no one better."
Iconic Horses That Defined Stoute’s Career
Sir Michael Stoute’s career featured an array of equine legends, each demonstrating his patience and expertise.
- Shergar: Known for his 10-length Derby win in 1981, Shergar’s career ended in tragedy after his kidnap by the IRA, making him one of racing’s most unforgettable figures.
- Conduit: Stoute completed his British Classic achievements with Conduit’s St Leger win in 2008. Conduit went on to secure two Breeders' Cup Turf victories.
- Estimate: This mare’s Gold Cup win for Queen Elizabeth II at Royal Ascot in 2013 was one of Stoute’s most cherished victories.
- Harbinger: After a stellar 2010 season, Harbinger secured an 11-length King George victory. A subsequent injury ended his career, but he left a significant legacy as a sire.
- Pilsudski: A late-blooming globetrotter, Pilsudski claimed six Group One wins, including the Coral-Eclipse and Japan Cup, becoming the champion older horse of 1997.
- Russian Rhythm: Known for her 1000 Guineas win and multiple Group One victories, Russian Rhythm was carefully prepared by Stoute, securing a prestigious win in the Lockinge Stakes.
- Singspiel: After a successful run in Europe, Singspiel claimed the Dubai World Cup and continued to shine, showcasing Stoute’s training ability on the global stage.
- Sonic Lady: Known for her three-year-old season in 1986, Sonic Lady dominated with victories in the Coronation Stakes and the Prix du Moulin.
- Workforce: Stoute’s fifth Derby winner, Workforce also claimed the Arc in 2010, a testament to the trainer’s strategic prowess.
- Zilzal: This 1989 champion won the Sussex and QEII Stakes, with Stoute showcasing his skill by turning Zilzal into one of the year’s best three-year-olds.
- Ajdal: After starting his career over a mile, Stoute adapted Ajdal’s training, allowing him to capture prestigious sprint titles, including the July Cup.
Through these iconic horses and countless victories, Sir Michael Stoute leaves behind a legacy marked by unrivalled accomplishments, celebrated by colleagues and fans alike.