Well just terrific really, GO. Aidan broke the record for G1's in a season - and with the right one of his four entries as far as yours truly was concerned. A terrific reception on course at Donny. Such a modest, but hugely talented man. Teetoaller, four kids, and ridiculously modest considering the scale of his achievements. He has gone past the legendary Vincent O'Brien (no relation - although he trains out of the same premises) and is surely the greatest racehorse trainer of all time. South Yorkshire this week, California next week. They all come alike. He is a proper, proper man. So two (and a half) out of three - ain't bad, as Meatloaf might have said. Massive point against the massives! And Harvey's was a worldie!
Fair one to put up UTC, and I'd have the most enormous respect for Sir Henry's handling of Frankel, the greatest horse to have raced on the flat. Henry was particularly brilliant with the fillies (equine) as witness his 6 1,000 Guineas triumphs and 8 Epsom Oaks. But if you compare Aidan's record in other big races to Sir Henry's (in brackets) you see: English Classics 29 (25), Derby 6 (4), 2,000 Guineas 8 (3), St Leger 5 (4). Aidan has won 11 Breeders' Cup races to Sir Henry's 2, and 2 Arc De Triomphes to 0. Henry won the British Flat Trainers' Championship 10 times; Aidan has so far won it on 6 occasions. BUT: Aidan is based in Ireland, and has trained for only 21 years whereas Sir Henry was 44 years as a trainer. Two giants, for sure. But Aidan would have to shade it for me! For good measure, Aidan has also won 3 Champion Hurdles. He is level with the great Vincent O'Brien (no relation) on Deby wins, but Vincent only won the British Flat Trainers title on 2 occasions. Vincent did however win three Grand Nationals! Honorary Knighthood for Aidan please!
