‘KING OF CHESTER’ Franny Norton – the jockey who wanted to fight Ant and Dec – has announced his retirement aged 54.
A weighing room legend who’s spent 35 years in the saddle, Norton will have his final rides at Chester on Saturday.
In a career that has seen him win almost £20million on the track and bag three Group races, he was best known for being unstoppable around the tight, twisting Roodee track he made his home.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…
- Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
- Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
- Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
- Exclusive insights from Andrew Balding and Hayley Turner
- VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
- New customer offer with Coral
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk
Norton won the Chester Cup on Making Miracles in 2019 and his two Group 2 wins on Sir Ron Priestley were among the highlights of his almost 2,000 career victories.
A keen boxer who turned down a place in the 1998 Commonwealth Games, he was due to fight TV favourites Ant and Dec in a charity bout in 2005.
But the dust-up never happened because, the jockey said, ‘their management didn’t want it’.
That was probably a blessing in disguise, as Norton was eight-time stable lad boxing champ.
On his decision to retire, Norton said: “After an incredible journey spanning over 35 years, the time has come for me to hang up my boots and call it a day in horse racing.
“From the early days in the saddle to the many highs and lows that followed, this sport has given me memories I will treasure forever.
“I’ve been blessed to ride alongside some of the best jockeys, work with the finest trainers, and compete at the most iconic racecourses.
“Every moment has been a privilege.
“Racing has taught me resilience, passion, and humility, and I’m forever grateful for the incredible journey it has taken me on.
“I look forward to seeing you all at Chester for one last race. Let’s make it a day to remember.”
More to follow.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
