Ronald Lockey

Ronald Lockey

Article by Alan Trout

Racing had resumed just two weeks earlier following a six-week shutdown due to the rampant foot and mouth epidemic when, in a close finish to the Swale Selling Handicap at Catterick Bridge on January 20, 1968, Macedonia just beat Lioncello to give Ronald Lockey his sole success under National Hunt rules. 

The six-year-old winner had had the considerable assistance of champion jockey Josh Gifford on his previous start, but even he only managed fourth place. Earlier in the season, Grand National-winning jockey Bobby Beasley had been in the saddle but had not reached the first six. 

So, all credit to Ronald Lockey for finally bringing Macedonia home in front, coming with a strong challenge to lead near the finish. Josh Gifford’s brother Macer was aboard when Macedonia made his next, and last, start of the season, finishing unplaced at Ayr in March. 

Ronald, based with Newmarket trainer ‘Fiddler’ Goodwill, Macedonia’s trainer, only had four rides that season and did not renew his licence for the following one.