Ian Balding, trainer of legendary Derby winner Mill Reef, dies aged 87

Ian Balding, the trainer of the Derby winner Mill Reef, has died at the age of 87.

Balding, who was also a Cheltenham Festival-winning rider in his amateur days, sent out many top-class performers from his Kingsclere yard including Glint Of Gold, Selkirk and Lochsong, but the 1971 Derby hero remains the standout name among his Group One victors.

He retired in 2002 handing over the licence to his son Andrew, who is now a multiple Classic-winning trainer himself. Balding’s daughter Clare was also a leading amateur rider before embarking on her successful broadcasting career.

A portrait of the horse trainer, Ian Balding and daughter Claire. Photograph: Julian Herbert/Getty Images

A post on Instagram from the yard read: “We are deeply sorry to share the sad news that Ian Balding has passed away. A wonderful family man, a hugely successful racehorse trainer and a brilliant sportsman. He will be greatly missed by all at Park House.”

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