The British horse racing world is in mourning following the death of the celebrated trainer Ian Balding at the age of 87. The news was confirmed on Friday, prompting an outpouring of tributes led by his daughter, the renowned BBC broadcaster Clare Balding.
A Fearless and Funny Family Man
In a heartfelt social media post, Clare Balding remembered her father as "one of a kind". She described him as "fearless, funny and charming", an all-round sportsman and a beautiful horseman. "He loved his dogs, his horses and his family – probably in that order," she wrote, adding that he taught her to be brave enough to chase her dreams.
The official announcement came via the Instagram account of the family's Park House stables in Kingsclere, near Newbury. The statement remembered Ian as a wonderful family man, a hugely successful racehorse trainer, and a brilliant sportsman who would be greatly missed by all at the yard.
The Legacy of a Champion Trainer
Ian Balding began his training career in 1964, counting Queen Elizabeth II and American tycoon Paul Mellon among his prestigious clients. His name became synonymous with equine greatness through the phenomenal Mill Reef.
Owned by Mellon, Mill Reef was a high-class two-year-old who achieved an extraordinary sequence of victories in 1971. The colt won the Derby, the Eclipse Stakes, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. This incredible feat propelled Ian Balding to the title of champion trainer that same year, cementing his place in racing history.
A Lasting Impact on Racing
Ian Balding's influence on the sport extends through his children. His son, Andrew Balding, successfully took over the training licence at the famous Kingsclere stables in 2002 and has maintained the family's position at the pinnacle of the sport. Before her broadcasting career, Clare was a leading amateur jockey.
Leading figures from racing have shared their condolences. Champion jockey Frankie Dettori paid tribute, recalling that Balding was a "tremendous supporter" in his early days. Dettori highlighted their success with the top sprinter Lochsong and noted that it was through Ian that he first got the opportunity to ride for Queen Elizabeth II, for which he expressed deep gratitude.
Broadcaster and former athlete Gabby Logan was among others sending love to the family. The racing community and the public now join the Balding family in remembering a true legend of the turf, whose legacy of excellence, charm, and courage will endure.
