Sad news from Australia

WILLIAM was this morning saddened to hear that legendary Australian trainer George Hanlon had passed away, aged 92.

As part of his learning curve, William spent time working for Hanlon 30 years ago and remained very good friends with him.

Hanlon was renowned for his touch with stayers and notched up three Melbourne Cup wins in a glittering career that included more than 100 stakes successes.

William said: “George was a wonderful man to work for and he certainly knocked a few rough edges off me in my time with him in Australia.

“We maintained a close relationship over the years and I was particularly delighted that George happened to be at Ascot in 1987 when Colmore Row gave me my first winner at the Royal meeting.

“I also had the pleasure of twice going to the Melbourne Cup to help him saddle runners in the big race, including Mr Prudent who was second in 2002.

“He was a fine trainer and a lovely man who will be very much missed by his family and many friends.”