Former champion jump jockey Graham Bradley, whose career included victories in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle and Irish Grand National, has died at the age of 65.
Bradley died after living with semantic dementia, an illness he was diagnosed with in 2022. News of his passing prompted tributes from across the horse racing world, with fellow jockeys, trainers and racing fans remembering him as one of the most naturally gifted National Hunt riders of his generation.
Born in West Yorkshire, Bradley began his professional riding career in 1980 and quickly established himself as one of Britain’s brightest young jockeys. He was crowned champion conditional jockey during the 1981-82 season before enjoying a string of major victories throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
His greatest triumph came in the 1983 Cheltenham Gold Cup when he guided Bregawn to victory for trainer Michael Dickinson. The race became one of the most famous in Festival history, with Dickinson saddling the first five finishers. Bradley was also the leading rider at that year’s Cheltenham Festival. Later in his career, he won the 1996 Champion Hurdle aboard Collier Bay, the 1985 Irish Grand National on Rhyme ‘n’ Reason and the King George VI Chase with Wayward Lad. Over 22 years in the saddle, he rode more than 700 winners and earned a reputation for his patience, balance and exceptional race judgment.
Although his career included periods of controversy, including suspensions and legal challenges, Bradley remained widely respected for his remarkable talent. After retiring from race riding, he worked successfully as a bloodstock agent and continued to contribute to the sport he loved.
Following news of his death, former champion jockey John Francome described Bradley as a stylish rider and “a genuinely nice human being,” while Peter Scudamore praised both his ability in the saddle and his character away from the racecourse. Their tributes reflected the admiration Bradley earned throughout British horse racing.
Graham Bradley leaves behind a legacy as one of the finest jump jockeys of his era. His achievements at Cheltenham and other major races secured his place in National Hunt racing history, and his performances continue to be remembered by racing fans around the world.