Franny Norton, a stalwart of British horse racing, has officially retired after more than three decades in the sport. Known as the "King of Chester," Norton enjoyed immense success at Chester Racecourse, claiming more wins there than any other jockey. He rode almost 2,000 winners in total, including notable victories in prestigious races like the Ebor and Chester Cup. Norton's final rides took place at Chester's last meeting of the season, where he brought his remarkable career to a close.

Reflecting on his career, Norton explained that despite being physically fit and eager to continue, fewer opportunities prompted him to retire. He had considered retiring alongside Frankie Dettori last season, but unfinished business—namely a fourth-place finish in the Chester Cup—convinced him to continue for another year. Norton's humble beginnings, having no background in horse racing, make his nearly 2,000 wins all the more impressive. He also highlighted his pride in his partnership with Sir Ron Priestley and his strong association with the Johnston yard, which he credits for much of his success.

Norton's most cherished moment came in 2012 at Doncaster, where he won aboard The Gold Cheongsam, dedicating the victory to the victims of the Hillsborough disaster. His approach to health and loyalty to the Johnston stable contributed to his longevity, riding over 50 winners consistently since 2000 and hitting a career-best 112 winners in 2018. Looking ahead, Norton plans to help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds find opportunities in racing, offering them guidance based on his experience and emphasizing the importance of passion, balance, and hard work in the sport.

 Image GBR