Kempton legend lives on
TIME distorts memories but iconic legends are never forgotten and despite a lapse of 28 years since the last of his four victories in today’s King George VI Chase, Desert Orchid will never be forgotten.
The flying grey passed away aged 27 in 2006 and his ashes are scattered at Kempton Park – his fiefdom where his rule was never questioned.
David Elsworth, his master throughout his career, has turned his back on honing the muscles of the heavyweights of the game for the lithe performers on the Flat. But the Boxing Day headliner still resonates. “It is something I’m looking forward to,” said Elsworth, who turned 79 at the beginning of the month.
“I was lucky with the grey horse. It happened a long time ago. But they were good days and I’m sure racing will have a lot of other good days coming up.” Elsworth and Desert Orchid gave the game an identity outside the confines of horse racing. Lester Piggott once graced the grey’s saddle when making a guest appearance at Wincanton.
“Racing needs some good stories and fun,” said Elsworth. “It would be a great story if Waiting Patiently was to win. With Malcolm (Jefferson) no longer here kicking the ball about it would be a great story if his daughter Ruth (trainer) could win the race.”
Elsworth believes Thistlecrack has an each-way chance today although he is a “tentative” tip.
Old ties and distant memories would have been kept alive when Elsworth met Richard Burridge, Desert Orchid’s owner, in Yorkshire for Christmas.
It is a ritual they have kept since the grey horse passed away and no doubt a glass or two will be raised to the memory of a legend.