West Tip, the 1986 Grand National winner, has died at the age of 24. Richard Dunwoody rode the Michael Oliver-trained horse to his most illustrious win, and went on to finish fourth in the next two years and second in 1989 as a veteran. He finished 10th in 1990 in his final National outing before being retired by owner Peter Luff.
"I owe him an awful lot: no other horse contributed to my career like he did," said Dunwoody, who was only 22 at the time of West Tip's National win. The 35-year-old Ulsterman rode 1,699 winners in Britain, and eventually became champion jockey three times.
"He got me going and not only gave me a win in the world's most famous race but also gave me three other brilliant rides to finish placed. He was a tremendous performer and a great jumper who had enough class to finish a close fourth in the Gold Cup as well. I will always remember him," said Dunwoody.
West Tip had enjoyed retirement since 1992 in the care of Becky Titterton at her family's dairy farm near Warwick, but continued to make special appearances, including a mystery guest spot on BBC's Question of Sport earlier this year. He also returned regularly to Aintree to parade with other former champions and was last seen in public there in April.
"West Tip was a talented, courageous and very special horse who provided enormous pleasure and fun over the years not only for me but for his many fans and admirers who have continued to follow him even during retirement. Tippy could not have had a better home or a happier retirement. He will be very sadly missed," said owner Luff.
Filed by Greg McKevitt
