Former two-time champion jockey Hubert ‘Chinna’ Bartley is dead.
OBSERVER ONLINE has been informed that Bartley, who was rated in the 1980’s and 1990’s as one of the better riders at Caymanas Park, died early this morning.
It is understood that Bartley has been ailing for a while. He was 54 years old.
Bartley rode two Derby winners, Poor Little Rich Girl and Mr Lover Lover and six winners of the Jamaica St Leger, a race he made his own.
“Chinna’ was an outstanding rider and a gentleman who did a lot for racing especially when he was in his prime in the 1980’s and early 1990’s.
“He was a crowd favourite who rode several Classic winners including winning the St Leger several times. I offer condolences on behalf of the Guild and personally to the familiy and friends of this truly outstanding jockey,” Ellis said.
After a long exile from competitive race riding, mainly due to weight problems, Bartley returned to the winners’ enclosure on Saturday, October 25, 2014. He guided the Dalton Comrie-trained Hail De King to an emphatic victory over King Nebarue and Annisa in what was no more than a simple piloting exercise.
After the win Bartley said: “Really happy to win again. Always a good feeling and I will continue to work and try as best as possible.”
Racing fans celebrated Bartley’s win with generous applause, which he duly acknowledged by waving to them on his way to the winners’ enclosure.
You must log in to post a comment.