Sir Henry Cecil, one of Britain’s greatest trainers, has been officially knighted by the Queen at a Buckingham Palace investiture ceremony.
The 10-times champion Flat trainer described his title as “the biggest honour I’ll get in my lifetime”.
Cecil has had 25 Classic winners including this year’s 2000 Guineas hero and champion three-year-old colt, the undefeated Frankel.
Add to that more than 70 Royal Ascot triumphs, making him the leading trainer at the mid-summer spectacular, and his lofty position since taking out his licence in 1969 is secured.
Cecil is a popular figure in racing, both on the course and with ordinary punters who place their faith in his horses in betting shops across the country.
“It’s a way of life. I like a challenge and my life’s been full of challenges and I’m very honoured to receive this,” he said. This is the biggest honour I’ll get in my lifetime.”
Cecil, who has known the Queen for many years in her role as an owner/breeder, played down his achievements over the past 40 years.
“I was the first person from my prep school to fail common entry to Eton so I think I was qualified to be a porter,” he said.
Among the highs, Cecil has also experienced a series of setbacks.
In 1995 he was dealt a blow when Sheikh Mohammed withdrew his horses from the stable.
He was also diagnosed with stomach cancer, but after treatment is said to have overcome the illness.
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