Image from theguardian.com
Ian Balding, Trainer of Mill Reef and Celebrated Horse Racing Figure, Dies Aged 87
L
C 90%
R
Ian Balding, renowned horse trainer and former Cheltenham Festival-winning amateur rider, has died at the age of 87. He was best known for training Mill Reef, the Derby winner in 1971.
Throughout his career, Balding trained several notable horses including Glint Of Gold, Selkirk, and Lochsong from his Kingsclere yard. He retired from training in 2002, passing his licence to his son Andrew Balding, who has since become a successful trainer in his own right.
Balding's daughter, Clare Balding, is a leading amateur rider and well-known broadcaster. Following his death, the Park House yard posted a notice confirming his passing and paying tribute to his legacy in horse racing.
Sources
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/jan/02/ian-balding-trainer-mill-reef-dies-age-87-horse-racing
* This article has been summarised using Artificial Intelligence and may contain inaccuracies. Please fact-check details with the sources provided.