Ian Balding, the renowned racehorse trainer who guided Mill Reef to Derby and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe glory in 1971, has died at the age of 87. His family announced the news on Friday via the Park House Stables Instagram page, describing him as a wonderful family man, hugely successful trainer, and brilliant sportsman.
Balding took over the licence at Park House Stables in Kingsclere, Berkshire, in 1964 at just 26, following the death of his father-in-law Peter Hastings-Bass. He quickly made his mark, with Royal Ascot winners in his first two seasons. However, it was Mill Reef who propelled him to the top of Flat racing, winning the Derby, Eclipse Stakes, King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and the Arc in 1971, making Balding champion trainer.
Mill Reef's career ended prematurely due to a broken leg in 1972, but he survived to become a successful stallion. Balding later trained other stars including Glint Of Gold, Selkirk, and the brilliant sprinter Lochsong, who won the Nunthorpe Stakes and the Prix de l'Abbaye in 1993 and 1994. He also trained for the late Queen Elizabeth II and saddled a winner at the Cheltenham Festival over jumps.
Balding came from a racing family: his father Gerald and brother Toby were also trainers, and his son Andrew now runs Park House Stables. His daughter Clare, a former amateur jockey turned broadcaster, paid tribute on social media, calling him fearless, funny, and charming, and thanking him for teaching her to chase her dreams.
