Lester Piggott

Lester Piggott Biography

Lester Piggott was a world-renowned English professional jockey and horse trainer widely celebrated as one of the greatest flat racing jockeys in history. Famous for his record nine victories in the Epsom Derby and an unparalleled career tally of over 4,490 wins in Britain alone, Piggott's skill, distinctive riding style, and competitive temperament cemented his legacy in horse racing lore. Nicknamed "The Long Fellow" for his taller-than-average jockey height, he helped revolutionize race-riding techniques and achieved multiple British Champion Jockey titles during his career.

Childhood

Lester Keith Piggott was born on November 5, 1935, in Wantage, Berkshire, England. Coming from a deeply rooted horse racing family, his lineage included distinguished jockeys and trainers dating back to the 18th century. His grandfather, Ernest Piggott, was a celebrated jump racing jockey who won the Grand National three times, while his father, Keith Piggott, also enjoyed success as a National Hunt jockey and trainer. Growing up immersed in horse racing culture, Lester was naturally drawn into the sport from a very young age.

Education

Piggott's formal education was secondary to his early introduction to horse riding and racing. He developed his skills in stables managed by his family, beginning to ride professionally when he was still a child. By the age of 12, Lester had already won his first race, signaling the start of an extraordinary career. His practical education consisted of rigorous training in horsemanship, weight control, and racing strategy, which he mastered under the guidance of his family and racing mentors.

Career

Lester Piggott's professional career spanned nearly five decades, marking him as one of the most successful jockeys ever. He rode his first winner in 1948 and went on to win a total of 4,493 races in Britain, with worldwide estimates around 5,300 victories. His record includes nine Epsom Derby wins, eleven British Champion Jockey titles, and numerous wins in other prestigious British Classic races such as the St. Leger and the 2,000 Guineas. Notably, in 1970, Piggott guided Nijinsky to win the English Triple Crown — a rare achievement comprising victories in the 2,000 Guineas, the Epsom Derby, and the St. Leger Stakes. Later, he transitioned into horse training after his riding retirement, contributing further to the sport.

Family Life

Lester Piggott married Susan Armstrong in 1959, and they had two children. The marriage eventually ended in divorce. Throughout his life, Piggott's relationships and family dynamics were intertwined with the racing world, with his family often involved in various aspects of horse racing. Despite his demanding career, he maintained connections with his family members, some of whom followed in horse racing footsteps. Later in life, he lived quietly, focusing on horse breeding and training.

Achievements

Piggott's list of achievements is extraordinary. He broke records by winning the Epsom Derby nine times, a feat unsurpassed to this day. He also secured 30 British Classic race victories, including eight wins in the St. Leger and six in the Oaks. His 11 British Champion Jockey titles and a record 116 Royal Ascot wins highlighted his dominance. Internationally, Piggott won the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe three times. His career milestones include riding his 3,000th winner in 1974 and his 4,000th in 1982. His riding style, characterized by an aerodynamic crouch and tactical acumen, influenced generations of jockeys worldwide.

Controversies

Despite an illustrious career, Piggott faced controversies, most notably a conviction for tax fraud in 1987, for which he was sentenced to three years in prison and served just over one year. This legal issue temporarily clouded his reputation but did not diminish his status as a racing icon. Additionally, disputes over riding commitments and relationships with owners and trainers stirred occasional professional tensions, particularly in the latter part of his career, which contributed to shifts in his professional alliances.

Lester Piggott Summary

Lester Piggott remains one of the most celebrated figures in British and international horse racing history. Born into a family with a rich equestrian heritage, he rose to become an extraordinary jockey with a slew of record-breaking wins and titles. His distinctive style, competitive nature, and numerous triumphs on the racing circuit earned him legendary status. Though his career had its share of ups and downs, including legal troubles, his contributions to horse racing as a jockey and trainer have left a lasting legacy. Piggott's life story embodies dedication, talent, and resilience in the demanding world of thoroughbred racing.