November 19, 2006 @ 4:18 pm
Desert Orchid - April 11, 1979 – November 13, 2006
I was sad to hear that Desert Orchid had died this week. He was, for me, one of the greatest steeplechasers. My two main memories of Desert Orchid are of his jumping style which was spectacular as he would often take off outside of the wings of the steeplechase fences. I also remember that after Desert Orchid retired, he used to lead the parade for the King George Steeplechase on Boxing Day (which he had won several times).
His jockey, Colin Brown, would let him canter up the straight in front of the grandstand and past the finish. One year he took off and galloped a long way around the circuit before he could be stopped. I remember the roar from the crowd as he speeded up past the winning post as it was as loud as any of his great wins.
Filed under Favourite Horses, Horse News Permalink
Bookmark This Post About Desert Orchid - April 11, 1979 – November 13, 2006
