Tuesday 24 May 2011

Frank Morby Turned Me Into A Monster...


A recent blog post from Mick Channon caught my attention and made me smile.

Someone is always responsible and we have now found out who, as a small, tanned figure entered the offices of West Ilsley at the weekend.

Back in the day, jockey Frank Morby spent a large part of his career with Peter Walwyn and held his own in the weighing room alongside the greats of the 1950, 60's & 70's. 

In the late 1960's a keen, fresh faced MRC struck up a rapport with Frank when he was riding out for Vernon Cross at Chattis Hill in Stockbridge and Mick was invited along to watch Mr Cross's horses work.
And so it goes that Frank Morby was the first person to take Mick to Newmarket. Consequently, MRC chose to continually harangue his old friend during his recent visit from his home in Kenya where he has been based since 1984.

"This bastard took me up there and I was fascinated by it all. Don't get me wrong, I hate Newmarket now, but Frank showed me around and I was hooked. He taught me plenty did Frank and that's why I abuse him every time he's over.

"If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be dealing with staff, paying their wages, constantly rebuilding West Ilsley, which seems determined to fall down and training bloody horses.

"In a nutshell, he's responsible for me having no hair!"

It's quite clear that there is a lot of respect there and Mick was delighted that Frank joined him on the flight over to the Curragh for the Irish Guineas at the weekend. It's funny how you never forget people that helped you on your way, regardless of what path you take in life.

Others would be less abusive about it mind and have a little more gratitude.