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Brian Rouse, Classic-Winning Jockey of Stanerra Fame, Dies at 85

A late-career rise produced a British Classic plus a Japan Cup win on Stanerra that defined his legacy.

Overview

  • Racing Post confirmed his death on November 11; he had lived in Newmarket in recent years, battled Alzheimer's, and is survived by daughters Pamela and Deborah.
  • After leaving an early apprenticeship to work as an electrician, he renewed his licence at 31 in 1972, with 15 years between his first and second winners.
  • He claimed his sole British Classic on Quick As Lightning in the 1980 1,000 Guineas after others passed on the mount.
  • His 1983 partnership with Stanerra yielded the Prince of Wales's and Hardwicke at Royal Ascot, the Joe McGrath Memorial, and the Japan Cup as the first European-trained winner.
  • Injury ended his riding career in 1996, after which he trained apprentices for the Hong Kong Jockey Club; he also rode Desert Orchid in the horse's only Flat race.