The Trainer

FROM starting out with less than 10 horses in 2004, David Simcock has become a Classic-winning trainer who has enjoyed top-class success both in Britain and internationally. His string size has regularly numbered more than 100 for a number of seasons and his Newmarket operation is widely respected throughout the racing industry.

The first horse to run under David’s name was victorious and the trend has continued in the ensuing years. Simcock-trained horses have won on many of the biggest stages in racing. And after a series of landmark successes, David became a Classic-winning trainer in 2018 when Teppal scored in the French 1,000 Guineas (Poule D’Essai des Pouliches).

Stepped up into back-to-back wins in novice races, she proved herself a Group 1 performer at the first attempt. The triumph at Longchamp underlined what an intuitive and adept handler he is and adds to an already sizeable CV that lists a string of Group-race victories.

If Teppal was David’s first Classic star he had shown a sure touch in the previous decade. Simcock’s skills were revealed to a wider audience with his handling of brilliant speedster Dream Ahead. The horse won Group 1s in France and England in 2010 and repeated the cross-Channel feat in 2011 on his way to becoming champion sprinter.

Both at home and abroad David has also expertly campaigned classy milers Trade Storm and Lightning Spear. Notable middle-distance and staying prizes have been landed by Simcock’s stable thanks to stars such as Darley Sun, Balios and Sheikhzayedroad.

David has shown he possesses the ability to nurture the talents of all types of horse. His intelligent and meticulous approach to training means that he works tirelessly to try and ensure that the potential of all the horses under his care – whatever their level – is maximised. Patient and an excellent planner with an in-depth knowledge of the programme book, his love for his profession is matched only by his talent.