Vincent O'Brien RIP

[mouview]

Surprised nobody has yet commented on the passing of this icon, perhaps the greatest sporting personage this country has ever produced. Conquered the jumps scene in the 50s with wins in the Grand National, Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champions Hurdle before turning his attention to the flat where he had multiple wins in the classics, including 6 (or 7?) Derby winners with some of the most famous horses of all time e.g. Nijinsky, Sir Ivor. His alliance with Roert Sangster and Lester Piggott was the most successful in horse racing and later he was instrumental in setting up the world-famous Coolmore stud with son-in-law John Magnier. O'Brien was one of the most reasons why Ireland now enjoys the reputation it does in horse racing.

Because he retired from training in 1994, younger readers on this board may not appreciate his greatness, but imagine Matt Busby and Alex Ferguson rolled into one - this was his stature and record of achievement. A collosus and a true legend.

[Doogie Browser]

http://gaaboard.com/board/index.php?topic=802.2340