Legendary Mill Reef Trainer Ian Balding Passes Away at 87
Ian Balding, a prominent figure in horse racing and the trainer of the legendary colt Mill Reef, has passed away at the age of 87. Balding’s legacy in the sport includes a remarkable career that spanned decades and showcased his exceptional talent as a trainer and jockey.
Early Career and Accomplishments
Born into a racing family, Ian Balding took over training at Kingsclere in 1964 following the death of his predecessor, Peter Hastings-Bass. His first major success came six years later with Mill Reef, who became a racing sensation. This high-class thoroughbred won prestigious races, including:
- The Derby
- The Eclipse Stakes
- The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes
- The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe
These victories helped Balding achieve the title of champion trainer in 1971.
Mill Reef’s Legacy
Mill Reef, owned by Paul Mellon, was instrumental in establishing Balding’s reputation. This remarkable horse also contributed to the success of other notable runners from Balding’s stable, such as:
- Glint Of Gold, a six-time Group 1 winner
- Forest Flower, champion two-year-old filly in 1986
Balding’s connection with royalty began with Queen Elizabeth II when he trained Escorial, who won the Musidora Stakes at York in 1974.
Achievements as a Jockey and Trainer
Aside from his training career, Balding also made his mark as an amateur jockey. He secured the most significant of his 65 wins in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham in 1963. In 1985, at the age of 46, he rode Ross Poldark in the Foxhunter Chase at Aintree, demonstrating his lasting passion for the sport.
Succession and Family Legacy
After retiring in 2002, Ian Balding was succeeded by his son, Andrew Balding, who has continued the family legacy with numerous Group and Grade 1 victories.
Balding’s contributions to horse racing, marked by his talent and dedication, will be remembered for years to come.
