Bruce Raymond dies at the age of 82

Everyone at Godolphin is deeply saddened by the passing of Bruce Raymond.

Since its formation in 2006, Raymond served as racing manager for Rabbah Bloodstock, looking after the racing interests of Emirati business associates and friends of the Maktoum Family.

Under Raymond’s management, Rabbah Bloodstock horses have captured numerous major races around the world, most notably the 2022 Derby with Desert Crown.

Other leading lights include 2018 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes victor Poet’s Word and Night Of Thunder, winner of the 2,000 Guineas in 2014 and now a leading Darley stallion.

Raymond rode successfully on the Flat for 36 years, taking the Champion Apprentice title in 1962 and the 1992 Haydock Sprint Cup on European champion sprinter Sheikh Albadou. He was a pioneer of racing internationally and won top races across the globe.

Forced to retire through injury in 1994, Raymond was assistant racing manager to His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Al Maktoum prior to his association with Rabbah.

Jono Mills (Managing Director of Rabbah Bloodstock), said: “Bruce had been an integral part of the Maktoum family’s racing interests for many years, and we are all deeply saddened by his passing. He possessed an unrivalled knowledge of racing, built up over his seven decades in the industry, and his counsel proved invaluable for all those associated with Rabbah and beyond.

“He was obviously a hugely talented jockey but was also blessed with superb people skills, attributes that served him brilliantly as a racing manager. Bruce excelled in a role that required the utmost diplomacy, and he was greatly respected throughout the industry. Nothing was ever too much trouble for him, and I always admired the generosity he displayed to anyone who needed guidance or advice. Most importantly, we have lost a great friend and someone who will be sorely missed by everyone here.”

Hugh Anderson (Managing Director of Godolphin UK and Dubai) said “Bruce was a great friend to me and all of us at Godolphin. He was such a fine man, brimming with charisma and charm, it’s hard to believe he has gone after such a long, brave, fight against cancer. We will miss his wit and wisdom, enhanced by an endless supply of wonderful stories about the sport he loved. He was unswervingly loyal to his many contacts in Dubai and worked until the very end, never giving in and always finding humour in every situation. Our deepest condolences to Jenny and Martin and the rest of his family and friends.”