LEGENDARY horse trainer John Spearing has sadly died aged 82.
Spearing was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2021 but enjoyed more than 50 years of winners as one of Britain’s most popular handlers.
Much-loved trainer Spearing has died aged 82 – just five days after retiring
He was the country’s second-longest serving trainer when he finally handed in his licence just five days ago.
Spearing’s best horse was 1985 Welsh Grand National winner Run And Skip.
That horse went onto finish fourth to the immortal Dawn Run in the following year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup.
John’s daughter Teresa said: “Dad was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2021 and passed away on Thursday, it was very peaceful.
“He received excellent care in the Lawns Nursing Home in Kempsey.”
Spearing, who was based in Worcestershire, suffered life-threatening injuries in a terrifying training incident five years ago.
A two-year-old lashed out on the gallops and Spearing had to be rushed to intensive care at Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital by air ambulance.
The trainer was kicked in the head and suffered a stroke and bleed on the brain.
He also broke 12 ribs, shattered his right shoulder blade and fractured his back.
Commenting on his decision to retire, the fan-favourite trainer said: “I feel lucky to have trained for well over 50 years and also to have sent out so many winners for very supportive owners, many of whom have become lifelong friends.
“I want to thank them. I also want to thank everyone who has worked alongside me over the years, with a special mention to Ellie Smith, a member of the team at Kinnersley for over ten years.”
Some of Spearing’s other big winners included Simon, who took the Racing Post Chase and Sky Bet Chase in 2007.
Pintle was the trainer’s last Listed winner on the Flat when taking a fillies’ race at Bath in the same year.
His final winner anywhere as a trainer was Danny Bleu, who took a 7f handicap at Chepstow last August.
Trainer Henry Oliver was another who paid tribute to a hero of the sport.
He told the Racing Post: “He lived and breathed racing – that was his life. John was really good fun and a top man. He trained some great winners.”
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/horse-racing/ive-been-in-tears-all-night-4-5million-wonderhorse-dies-after-simple-op-goes-horribly-wrong/
