Henrietta Knight, trainer of triple Gold Cup winner Best Mate, is returning to the sport

Henrietta Knight, the renowned horse trainer known for her success with Best Mate, is making a comeback to the training ranks at the age of 76. Knight, who retired from training in 2012, will be based at West Lockinge Farm in Oxfordshire, where she trained for over two decades.

A New Team of 30 Horses

Despite her age, Knight is not letting retirement slow her down. She plans to return with a team of around 30 horses. When asked about her decision to come back, Knight said, "People will probably think I’m mad starting again when most people are stopping. But I like doing things and I miss the buzz."

Aiming for Cheltenham Success

Knight's main goal is to return to the Cheltenham Festival, where she has tasted success before. With Best Mate, she became the first horse since Arkle to win the Gold Cup three times. Knight said, "Cheltenham’s where I love and I can’t wait to get back there."

A Prominent Figure in Racing

Before her training career, Knight worked as a biology and history teacher. She took out her training license in 1989 and married former champion jump jockey Terry Biddlecombe in 1995. Despite retiring in 2012 to care for her husband, Knight remained involved in racing, most recently as racing manager to late owner Mike Grech. She also sourced successful horses like Irish National winner I Am Maximus and Grade 1 winner Brandy Love.

A New Training Venture

In her new training venture, Knight will be assisted by former trainer Brendan Powell. With her experience and determination, Knight is ready to make her mark once again in the world of horse racing.