Eddery to become OBE

Former 11-times champion jockey Pat Eddery is to be awarded an honorary OBE in recognition of his “services to horse racing”.

The 52-year-old Irishman rode over 4,600 winners in Britain over five decades, including every Classic at least once, with Derby wins on Grundy, Golden Fleece and Quest For Fame.

Other big-race wins included a Breeders’ Cup on Pebbles and four Prix de l’Arc de Arc de Triomphes, including the 1986 renewal on the great Dancing Brave.

He retired in 2003 as the second winning-most jockey in Britain behind Gordon Richards.

Eddery said: “This is a great honour. I have had a marvellous career and been lucky to have ridden so many good horses for so many wonderful owners and trainers. This is the icing on the cake.”

Although the jockey retired from race-riding over a year ago, he is still heavily involved in the sport through his involvement with Pat Eddery Racing, the syndicate organisation he set up with his wife Carolyn.

He is due to receive his award in London next month.