Brian Fletcher

An Aintree legend… Brian won his first Grand National at the age of 19 when partnering Red Alligator to victory. But Brian is probably best remembered for his 3 National rides on the unforgettable Red Rum providing two further victories and a second place making him the most successful Grand National jockey in the 20th Century. Brian’s record, which also includes another 3rd place, is all the more remarkable since his career was cut drastically short at the age of 26 when a terrible fall fractured his skull. Brian was always renowned for having ‘great hands’ and a unique ability to present a horse at a fence. His skill over the Aintree fences, before they were modified to be safer, established a record never likely to be equalled. Sadly, Brian died aged 69 in January 2017. Living nearby to the Homebred Stud, he was a good and enthusiastic friend to Homebred Racing and was always keen to cast an eye over our youngsters as he really loved horses. His love for horses was the reason why he lost the ride on Red Rum, which was so devastating for him, simply because he voiced his opinions that he knew the great horse needed a rest and connections were being greedy to keep running. Being a quiet man and rather shy, Brian never pushed himself forward and as a result has never really received the recognition his great skill and unique record deserves. Those interested in racing should celebrate Brian as one of its greatest.