The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Tributes to racehorse owner Noel Martin, 60
Tributes have been paid following the death of a British racehorse owner who was paralysed in a neonazi attack in Germany in 1996.
Noel Martin, who died on Tuesday aged 60, was working as a plasterer in the Brandenburg region when a rock was thrown at his car, causing him to crash into a tree.
Mr Martin, from Birmingham, went on to enjoy success as a racehorse owner, with his horse Baddam winning the Ascot Stakes and the Queen Alexandra Stakes in 2006.
He then saw Jacqueline Quest, named after his late wife, pass the post first in the 1,000 Guineas in 2010, only to be demoted to second place after a stewards’ inquiry.
As well as setting up charities and foundations that campaigned against racial intolerance, the Jamaican-born British citizen returned to Germany in 2001 to lead an anti-racist demonstration.
Speaking to the Racing Post, his Oxfordshire-based racing adviser Kevin Mcauliffe said: “He’s been a great friend and racing was his raison d’etre.
“He lived for it and I’ve never met anyone with his afflictions with so much enthusiasm for the sport. He loved it and never felt an outsider in the industry.
“He had a charity and looked after his carers so well. He was an amazing man.”
Mick Channon, who trained Baddam, said of Mr Martin: “It’s sad news. Obviously we had that brilliant week together at Royal Ascot – I don’t think Noel could believe it, to be honest.
“For him to come through what he went through showed a lot of character.”
Horse racing broadcaster Mike Cattermole tweeted: “So sorry to hear Noel Martin has passed away.
“He gave me a memorable but sad interview after Jacqueline Quest’s unfortunate disqualification. A man who deserved a better hand in life. Thoughts with his family.”