Dubai: Trainer Mark Johnston rewrote the record books on Thursday at York when he became the most successful trainer in British racing history.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland the affable 59-year-old handler saddled the 4,194th winner of his glittering career when Poet’s Society won a 1,600-metre handicap at the Knavesmire.
Johnston eclipsed Richard Hannon Sr., who for many years had held the record.
“It is just a relief really,” was the Scot’s immediate reaction on making history.
Godolphin handler Charlie Appleby led the tributes to Johnston describing him as “the ultimate professional.”
“His results and statistics only speak for themselves,” said Appleby. “Everyone has their own ideas what they want to do and he has certainly raised the level in the game, his results prove that. It is something you have to aspire to.
“He has definitely changed the dynamics of the game.”
A qualified vet, Johnston began his career in 1987, and his first winner was Hinari Video.
