04/01/2026
A very sad loss to racing. A true gentleman and a legend. Sincere Condolences to his family and friends.
โค๏ธ Brough Scott leads the tributes to his long-term friend Ian Balding, following the death of the legendary racing trainer, at the age of 87.
Speaking on Friday's Nick Luck Daily Podcast, Scott said โIt's a bit of a shock, because I've only literally heard 20 minutes ago, even though he hasn't been great for some time.
"We go right back to him beating me one day at Worcester, which I've never really forgiven him for. But the first time I saw Arkle, he rode in the race Milo was second-favorite. That was at Cheltenham, I was standing at the last fence, wondering how he was going to get on, and this strange thing came past was called Arkle.
"He was incredibly generous with his time, he was unique really and it's difficult.
"No one else will ever, ever do what he's done, quite apart from working backwards, being the father of Andrew and Clare and all that. And all the things he did at Kingsclere with Mill Reef and all the others.
"No one else has ever, or will ever now, win a race at Huntingdon in the early-afternoon, and then get to play rugby for the Cambridge first 15 later in the same afternoon, which is what Ian did one day. He was an extremely physical guy in a nicer sense of the word. He could do things; he was a doer. He was unafraid and yet he was much more sensitive than he'd pretend, he played the piano.
"But he was a special guy, a very considerable trainer, but I remember him as a friend. And that's why it hurts at this stage. The hurt will go and the memories will get stronger. And it's wonderful these two children are waving the flag so strongly, and his wonderful wife, Emma, is still the pillar of Kingsclere too."
A statement from Brant Dunshea, CEO of the British Horseracing Authority, read: "lan Balding leaves a towering legacy for our sport.
"Such is his significance that no telling of the history of racing would be complete without recognition of the enormous contribution he made.
"From his legendary Kingsclere base, he nurtured generations of equine and human talent, enjoying tremendous success along the way with unforgettable stars like Mill Reef.
"He is a man who will be remembered with tremendous affection and respect across our industry, and one whose impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.
"On this sad day, all of us at the BHA extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of lan Balding."
