He made horseracing great
And horseracing was even greater for having him calling it out for nearly 50 years on the BBC.
While punters were enjoying the action at Ballybrit this afternoon, one of the most famous men to ever grace a racecourse passed away.
Peter O’Sullevan was widely regarded as one of the best sports commentators of all time and even those who had never set foot in a paddock could imitate his distinctive voice
The former trainer was born in Newcastle County Down and became a household name for his delivery of some of the most iconic moments on horse racing history, such as Red Rum’s third Grand National win in 1977 when he declared,
“It’s hats off and a tremendous reception – you’ve never heard one like it at Liverpool!”
@racinggroups A thing of beauty.
Sir Peter O'Sullevan RIP. #racehour pic.twitter.com/FfhJOJvQv2— Tony Scott (@Tony_Scott11) July 29, 2015
He called his final race in 1997 and many well known figures from the sporting world have been paying tribute,
Sir Peter O'sullivan, the epitome of class. The most distinguished & eloquent voice of racing. He was an amazing man R.I.P
— AP McCoy (@AP_McCoy) July 29, 2015
Incomparable, irreplaceable, indelible. Sir Peter will never be matched & never forgotten. The ultimate pro & the definition of a gentleman
— Clare Balding 💙 (@clarebalding) July 29, 2015
Saddened to hear of the passing of Peter O'Sullevan. Indisputably one of the greatest sporting commentators of our time.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) July 29, 2015
Thoughts with the family of Sir Peter O'Sullevan who died peacefully this afternoon aged 97.
— CheltenhamRacecourse (@CheltenhamRaces) July 29, 2015
