Cecil knighted at Buckingham Palace
The 10-times champion trainer Sir Henry Cecil was on Tuesday knighted by the Queen at a Buckingham Palace investiture ceremony.
Last Updated: 15/11/11 3:11pm
The 10-times champion trainer Sir Henry Cecil was on Tuesday knighted by the Queen at a Buckingham Palace investiture ceremony.
The Newmarket-based handler, who has enjoyed a remarkable 2011 thanks to the exploits of Frankel. described his title as "the biggest honour I'll get in my lifetime."
His record speaks for itself - a four-time Derby winner and eight successes in the Oaks, Cecil has had 25 Classic winners, including this year's 2000 Guineas hero and champion three-year-old colt, the undefeated Frankel.
Add to that more than 70 Royal Ascot triumphs, making him the leading trainer at the mid-summer spectacular, and his lofty position since taking out his licence in 1969 is secured.
Cecil is a popular figure in racing, both on the course and with ordinary punters who place their faith in his horses in betting shops across the country.
He said: "It's a way of life - I like a challenge and my life's been full of challenges and I'm very honoured to receive this, this is the biggest honour I'll get in my lifetime."
Cecil, who has known the Queen for many years in her role as an owner/breeder, played down his achievements over the past 40 years.
He added jokingly: "I was the first person from my prep school to fail common entry to Eton so I think I was qualified to be a porter - I've been very lucky."
