English reading practice - Birth of Record-Breaking Jockey (C1/C2 Advanced learners)

Sir Gordon Richards was one of the most successful jockeys in the history of British horse racing. Born on this day 5th May 1904 in Doncaster, England, Richards would go on to win over 4,870 races during his career, making him one of the most celebrated jockeys of all time.

Richards was raised in a working-class family, and his father was a coal miner. However, Richards showed a natural talent for horse riding from a young age and began his career as an apprentice jockey at the age of 15.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Richards became known as a skilled and fearless rider. He was known for his ability to get the most out of his horses and his tactical nous (common sense; practical intelligence). Richards won his first race in 1921 at the age of 17 and went on to win the Champion Jockey title for the first time in 1933. He would go on to win the title a further 25 times, including a record-breaking run of 14 consecutive titles from 1946 to 1959.

Richards' career was not without controversy, however. He was known for his aggressive riding style, and there were occasions when he was accused of foul play. He was also criticised for his loyalty to certain owners and trainers, and there were accusations that he was given preferential treatment by the racing authorities.

Despite this, Richards' record speaks for itself. He rode in many of the most prestigious races in the world, including the Epsom Derby, the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and the Grand National. He won the Derby twice, on Pinza in 1953 and Never Say Die in 1954, and he won the Grand National once, on Merryman II in 1959.

After retiring from riding in 1954, Richards went on to become a successful trainer, and he was awarded a knighthood in 1953 for his services to horse racing. He continued to be involved in the sport until his death in 1986.

Today, Sir Gordon Richards is remembered as one of the greatest jockeys of all time. His record-breaking achievements on the track have ensured his place in the history of British horse racing. Richards' legacy also lives on through the Gordon Richards Stakes, a Group 3 flat horse race that is held annually at Sandown Park Racecourse.

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