Bruce Hobbs facts for kids

Bruce Robertson Hobbs (born December 27, 1920 – died November 22, 2005) was a famous English jockey and racehorse trainer. A jockey is someone who rides horses in races, and a trainer teaches racehorses how to run their best. Bruce Hobbs made history when he won the Grand National race at a very young age.

Bruce Hobbs: A Young Racing Star

Bruce Hobbs started riding horses as an amateur, winning ten races before he turned 16. People said he was one of the most exciting young riders ever. He became a professional jockey and had his first big race in the Grand National in 1937.

Grand National Champion

In 1938, Bruce Hobbs achieved something amazing. He won the Grand National race on a horse named Battleship. He was just 17 years old, making him the youngest and tallest jockey to win this famous race. Battleship was a special horse, being the son of the legendary American horse, Man o' War.

Two weeks after his Grand National win, Bruce also won the Welsh Grand National on a horse called Timber Wolf. By the end of that racing season, he had ridden 35 winners. He was the first jockey to win three Grand Nationals in one year, including a race in Cedarhurst, New York.

Overcoming Challenges

Later in 1938, Bruce had a serious fall during a race. He broke his spine and was told he might never ride again. But Bruce was determined. He worked hard to recover and eventually returned to riding. However, at age 25, he decided to switch from riding to training horses.

Serving His Country

Between 1940 and 1945, Bruce Hobbs served in the military. He was part of the Queen's Own Yorkshire Dragoons. He became a Captain and was awarded the Military Cross. This award is given for bravery during battle.

Becoming a Trainer

After the war, Bruce Hobbs began his career as a racehorse trainer. He first worked as a private trainer for John Rogerson. In 1953, he moved to Newmarket, Suffolk, which is a very famous place for horse racing. There, he became an assistant trainer.

A Public Trainer

In 1964, Bruce became a private trainer for David Robinson. Then, in 1966, he started his own public training business. This meant he could train horses for many different owners. He worked from the Palace House stable in Newmarket for the rest of his career.

Retirement

Bruce Hobbs retired from the world of horse racing in 1985. He passed away in Newmarket, Suffolk, in 2005, at the age of 84. He is remembered as a remarkable jockey and a respected trainer.