Irish · Tipperary, Ireland · Born 17 August 1979Irish champion jockey who dominated National Hunt racing with a record 59 Cheltenham Festival wins and multiple championship titles before retiring in 2019
Born in Kill, County Kildare, on August 17, 1979, into one of Ireland's most prominent racing families, Ruby Walsh was destined for the saddle. His father Ted was a successful trainer, while his brother Katie also became a professional jockey. Walsh rode his first winner at the age of 16 and quickly established himself as a natural talent in the demanding world of National Hunt racing. Walsh's career flourished through partnerships with some of the sport's greatest horses and trainers. His association with trainer Paul Nicholls proved particularly fruitful, leading to numerous Grade 1 victories and championship success. The jockey's tactical acumen and ice-cool temperament under pressure made him the go-to rider for big-race occasions. His partnership with the legendary Kauto Star produced multiple King George VI Chase victories and two Cheltenham Gold Cups, while his rides on Hurricane Fly delivered consecutive Champion Hurdle triumphs. The Cheltenham Festival became Walsh's personal playground, where he accumulated an unprecedented 59 winners during his career—a record that stands as testament to his big-race mentality and exceptional skill. He claimed the Champion Jockey title in Ireland multiple times and rode winners of virtually every major National Hunt prize. His two Cheltenham Gold Cup victories represented the pinnacle of jump racing achievement, while his consistency across all the Festival's premier contests demonstrated remarkable versatility. Walsh announced his retirement in May 2019 following victory in the Punchestown Champion Hurdle, ending his career on a characteristic high note. His influence extends beyond mere statistics; he elevated the tactical sophistication of race-riding and set new standards for big-race preparation and execution. As the most successful Cheltenham Festival jockey in history, Walsh's legacy endures not only in the record books but in the way he redefined what it means to be a championship jockey in the modern era.
Most successful Cheltenham Festival jockey with 59 wins
His 59 Cheltenham Festival winners is the most in the history of the meeting — a record unlikely to be challenged.
Did You Know?How They Played
Tactical brilliance and exceptional big-race temperament
Lasting Impact
Legendary National Hunt jockey, holds Cheltenham Festival wins record
Career Honours
- Cheltenham Gold Cup 2x
- 59 Cheltenham Festival wins (record)
- Champion Jockey Ireland multiple
Irish Athletes