There are few moments in racing when sentiment and history collide so perfectly, but on October 18 at Ascot, two of the sport’s greatest names will be celebrated together. Enable, the mare who captured the imagination of fans across the world, and Major Dick Hern, one of Britain’s most decorated trainers, will both be inducted into the British Racing Hall of Fame on QIPCO British Champions Day.
A racemare of a lifetime
Enable’s story is one of extraordinary brilliance. The Juddmonte homebred was a rare blend of power, resilience and grace, dominating the Flat for five unforgettable seasons. Under the guidance of John Gosden, she amassed 11 Group 1 victories across four countries, from Chantilly to Churchill Downs, and became the first horse ever to win Ascot’s King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes three times.
Her two Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe triumphs secured her place in the record books, while her Breeders’ Cup Turf victory in 2018 made her a global icon. Gosden, who trained her throughout her career, described her as “one of those absolute racemares of a lifetime,” recalling her remarkable run of victories as a three-year-old that few believe will ever be repeated.
Enable retired in 2020 with 15 wins from 19 starts and has since taken up her role as a broodmare at Banstead Manor, ensuring her legacy continues for generations to come.
The Major’s enduring legacy
Alongside Enable, the Hall of Fame will welcome a man whose name remains synonymous with excellence. Major Dick Hern, affectionately known as “The Major,” was a four-time Champion Trainer who claimed 16 British Classics, including Derby victories with Troy, Henbit and Nashwan.
Hern’s career was defined by brilliance and resilience. After a hunting accident left him paralysed, he trained Nashwan to a glorious Derby success in 1989 using only his eye for detail and his instinct for fitness. His colt Dayjur electrified the 1990 season, thrilling fans with sprinting displays that remain unforgettable.
Hern, who died in 2002 at the age of 81, becomes only the fifth trainer to be honoured by the British Racing Hall of Fame, joining the company of Sir Henry Cecil, Sir Michael Stoute, Vincent O’Brien and Aidan O’Brien.
A day of celebration at Ascot
The official presentation will take place at Ascot on October 18, with Juddmonte representatives accepting on Enable’s behalf and Hern’s nephew, Giles Blomfield, representing the family. Nick Smith, Co-Chair of the Hall of Fame panel, called both inductees “extremely worthy,” citing Enable’s household fame and Hern’s achievements in the face of adversity.
Visitors to Ascot will also be able to explore a special Hall of Fame exhibition in the Grandstand, bringing to life the stories of Britain’s modern greats. For a sport built on memories and heroes, the induction of Enable and Major Dick Hern into the British Racing Hall of Fame is a celebration of excellence that will resonate far beyond Champions Day.
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