Born into aristocracy, Sir Henry Cecil left a legacy on horse racing that very few in the sport can match. His step-father was the legendary trainer Sir Cecil Boyd-Rochfort and this helped to give him a rich background and early education in the ‘old school’ traditions of the sport.

In 1976, Cecil took over the reins at Warren Place from his father-in-law; the highly respected Sir Noel Murless with giant footsteps left to follow. Not only did he maintain the yard’s reputation, he took it up another notch with it becoming the dominant force of the 1970s and 1980s.

Essentially known for his eccentric fashion that included Gucci loafers and Saville Row tailoring, he remains one of the big characters of horse racing, leaving a considerable impression on all those who came across him.

His soft spoken, self-deprecating manner made him easily approachable and a public icon well beyond the racing world.

Decades Of Dominance

Between 1976 and 1993, Cecil was crowned British Champion Trainer on 10 occasions, mastering the ‘Classics’, particularly the Epsom Oaks which he won eight times, while his 25 British Classic victories remains a remarkable accomplishment.

Cecil was also the most successful trainer in the history of the Royal Ascot for decades recording 75 winners at the prestigious event before eventually being surpassed by Aidan O’Brien.

His name became almost synonymous with horse racing and notable owners from around the world lined up to get their horses into his stables.

Recovery From A Downfall

Between 2001 and 2006, following a series of personal tragedies that included the death of his twin brother David and a falling out with major owners like Sheikh Mohammed, Cecil’s stable plummeted. From housing 200 world class horses to a mere 20 lower-rated runners, Cecil trained just 12 runners in 2005, though he refused to give up, despite the industry writing him off and being diagnosed with stomach cancer.

As his health started to decline, Cecil received the gift of a lifetime that would completely turn his fortunes around. Prince Khalid Abdullah sent him a colt named Frankel and Cecil immediately recognised star potential.

Nurturing the horse’s headstrong attitude and raw speed, he turned Frankel into a racing machine that left the industry in awe. In 2012, the horse retired with a perfect 14-0 record, with him often being cited as the greatest thoroughbred to ever grace the turf.

One of racing’s most poignant moments was Cecil’s final public appearance when he turned out to see Frankel win the Champion Stakes at Ascot which remains one of the most emotional moments in horse racing.

During his career, Cecil developed a pure instinct which gave him an edge over other trainers who relied partly on technology. Cecil had an eye for it; this being key to his success with Frankel.

In 2011, he was knighted for his achievements and service to the sport and, passing away in 2013, the horse racing world fondly remembered the legacy that Cecil had left.