Robert Henry

Robert Henry

Article by Alan Trout

Robert Henry rode three winners under National Hunt rules in the immediate post-war years, starting with victory on Count Yutoi in the Ilkley Handicap Hurdle at Wetherby on December 15, 1945, beating Culrain, the mount of Pat Taylor, by half a length. 

More than a year passed before Robert rode his second winner, when, at Market Rasen on Boxing Day 1946, Old Gyppo won the Selling Handicap Hurdle. The six-year-old’s form had hitherto been moderate, although he had finished fourth on his previous start with Robert aboard, which was more than he’d managed in his four earlier efforts. Taking advantage of the fall of Twice Royal when leading, Old Gyppo went on to win by two lengths.  

Robert kept the ride and was rewarded with a final success at Hexham on May 24, 1947, when Old Gyppo finished a length in front of Bridlington, ridden by Henry Stapleton, to claim the Shire Selling Handicap Hurdle.

Although Robert rode Old Gyppo four times the following season, the best they achieved was one fourth-place finish. He did not renew his licence thereafter.