SIR ALEX FERGUSON’S close mate and legendary racing owner John Hales has sadly died aged 85.
A Grand National-winning owner who amassed his huge fortune making toys, Hales was a titan of racing.
The TimesSir Alex Ferguson and John Hales celebrated an amazing Cheltenham Festival just last year[/caption]
Hales was at Windsor less than two weeks ago to see his horse Protektorat win the Fleur De Lys Chase and claim its £86,000 prize moneyAlamy
Hales was helped around the winner’s enclosure by trainer Dan Skelton as his horse Protektorat won the big Windsor contestAlamy
Trainer Paul Nicholls confirmed his passing in a post on X.
The Ditcheat handler wrote: “It is with great sadness to report that John Hales passed away last evening.
“A great man and a fantastic owner and friend for many people .
“Thoughts with his wife Pat and his wonderful family. He will be missed by so many in racing. RIP John.”
Hales, who was from Shifnal in Shropshire, co-owned a number of top horses with the former Manchester United boss and fellow pals Ged Mason and Peter Done.
Hales’ own distinctive yellow silks were carried to ultimate glory in 2012 by awesome grey Neptune Collonges.
Ridden by the recently-retired Daryl Jacob, 33-1 Neptune Collonges prevailed by a nose in an all-time thriller with Sunnyhillboy.
Hales continued to go to the races in his final days.
Less than two weeks ago he was in the winner’s enclosure at Windsor after Protektorat won the Fleur De Lys Chase and its £86,000 prize.
There were emotional scenes at the Berkshire track as Hales, helped by trainer Dan Skelton, walked over to his beloved horse.
Hales made his money in the toy world, with the Teletubbies, Thomas the Tank Engine and Basil Brush soft toys all being crafted by his Golden Bear company.
Launched in 1978, Golden Bear went from strength-to-strength and soon meant Hales could dip his toe into the world of racehorse ownership.
In the mid-Nineties Hales had his first runner, the well-named The Toyman. Sadly he fell and died in his first race.
But his luck quickly changed and he enjoyed huge success with the likes of Champion Chase winners Azertyuiop and Politologue and King George hero One Man.
More to follow.
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