Former Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey Graham Bradley dies aged 65
Former Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey Graham Bradley has died in France at the age of 65 following a diagnosis of dementia.
During a colourful 22-year career in the saddle, the celebrated rider secured more than 700 victories across the sport.
His crowning achievement arrived aboard Bregawn in 1983 during one of the most famous races in National Hunt history.
That memorable afternoon saw trainer Michael Dickinson achieve the unprecedented feat of saddling the first five horses home.
A historic triumph at Cheltenham
Starting as the 100-30 favourite in an 11-runner field, the partnership utilised astute front-running tactics to secure a comfortable five-length victory.
They successfully fended off Captain John over the final two fences, with Wayward Lad, Silver Buck, and Ashley House completing the legendary top five.
Speaking to the media three years ago, the former jockey reflected fondly on his most famous afternoon in Gloucestershire.
“I did end up making most of the running after a couple of furlongs and I gave him an absolutely brilliant ride and won the race,” he recalled.
“I never thought Michael would train the first five, it was an absolute miracle.”
Further festival success
Beyond his Gold Cup heroics, the accomplished horseman tasted further Cheltenham Festival glory by winning the 1996 Champion Hurdle on Collier Bay.
He also holds an enduring jockey record of four victories in the prestigious Grand Annual Chase.
Other notable achievements included winning the King George VI Chase on Wayward Lad and finishing second in the 1998 Grand National aboard Suny Bay.
Following his retirement in 1999, he transitioned into a bloodstock agent role, representing high-profile clients including former footballers Steve McManaman and Robbie Fowler.
A complex legacy
Despite his immense talent, the popular rider endured a controversial chapter after being handed a five-year ban from the sport.
Authorities found him guilty of passing on inside information for financial reward, a scandal previously highlighted by a BBC Panorama investigation.
In his later years, he relocated to France where he managed his declining health.
Close friend and fellow Grand National-winning jockey Brendan Powell led the tributes following the tragic news.
“He was one of the best riders I ever rode with,” Powell said.
“As his book said he could be a ‘Wayward Lad’ but he was also a very kind man with a great side to him, and he’s at peace now.”