STALLS TRAGEDY Tributes pour in for ‘unsung hero’
THE racing world last night paid tribute to stalls handler Stephen Yarborough who was killed at Haydock on Friday.
Officials at the Merseyside course went ahead with last night’s evening card and dedicated it to his memory.
Racegoers and staff held a minute’s applause before the first race and jockeys across Britain also wore black armbands as a mark of respect.
Stephen, 60, was working as team leader when it is believed he fell under the wheels of the mobile starting stalls that were being pulled into position by a tractor.
An air ambulance was called to take him to nearby Whiston Hospital and the rest of the meeting was abandoned while police investigated. It was later confirmed that Stephen had died as a result of his injuries
Jason Fildes, general manager at Haydock, said talks had taken place with Stephen’s RaceTech colleagues and the “clear feeling” was that racing should go ahead last night.
He said: “I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Steve’s family, his RaceTech colleagues and all who knew him.”
Steve, known as ‘Yarbie’ was from Grimsby, Lincs, but lived near Malton, North Yorkshire.
Veteran rider Franny Norton said: “Those guys put their lives on the line for us every day. They are without doubt the unsung heroes of our game. “I’ve needed their help on numerous occasions and they dive in to help without a thought for themselves. You know you are in safe hands with them and it’s tragic this has happened.” Tony Hamilton said: “It’s just so sad, I knew him well. They do such a great job those lads.” Former jockey Kevin Darley said: “Stephen loved his job and the horses and was a great asset to the jockeys.”
in the 2.50 at Newton Abbot.
The nap selection has always been held in high regard by the yard, hosing up on both of his bumper starts at the Devon track.
However, as his Irish point-to-point form and breeding suggest, he is sure to improve for a test of stamina and the two miles six furlongs looks perfect for him at this early stage of his career.
The champion jockey can initiate a double when he teams up with new trainer Olly Stevens in the opener on KNIGHT COMMANDER (2.20).
The combination can make the most of the weight they receive from Weld Arab. GREEN HOWARD has not tasted victory since September 2014 but has dropped from a handicap mark of 86 to 60 and that may see him take care of a moderate bunch of milers at Redcar (3.00).
Riding for his dad Ted, Ruby Walsh (above) should go close on SAM KING at Tipperary (4.05), while the Madden clan may combine to take the two-mile chase (3.35) with SHAKE THE BUCKET.
BUBLE (2.40) and BENEFICIAL JOE (3.40)