Legendary horse racing owner and close friend of Sir Alex Ferguson, John Hales, has died at the age of 85.
Hales was a Grand National-winning owner and was in the winner’s enclosure just two weeks ago at Windsor when Protektorat won the Fleur De Lys Chase.
Trainer Paul Nicholls confirmed his passing in a post on X, writing: "It is with great sadness to report that John Hales passed away last evening.
"A great man and a fantastic owner and friend for many people . Thoughts with his wife Pat and his wonderful family. He will be missed by so many in racing. RIP John."
Hales, from Shifnal in Shropshire, co-owned a plethora of top horses with the iconic former Manchester United manager and a number of close friends with his horses running in the unique yellow silks.
His ultimate glory came in 2012, when Daryl Jacob rode 33/1 shot Neptune Collonges into the Aintree history books by winning the Grand National in a thriller with Sunnyhillboy.
Hales continued to go racing as recently as two weeks ago, celebrating Protektorat winning the Fleur De Lys Chase and its £86,000 prize money.
The horse co-owned by Sir Alex is trained by Dan Skelton, who was seen helping Hales walk over to his beloved horse following the race in an emotional moment that has now become incredibly poignant. Less than 12 months ago, Protektorat won the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival last March and the £218,000 winners’ prize.
Hales also trained the two-time King George VI Chase and Queen Mother Champions Chase grey One Man. Further Champion Chase triumphs came through Azertyuiop and Politologue, while his recent investment saw his ownership group, including Ferguson, pay £634,000 between them for Caldwell Potter.
Hales made his money in the toy world with the Teletubbies, Thomas the Tank Engine and Basil Brush soft toys all being crafted by his Golden Bear Company launched in 1978.
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