The Top 5 Greatest Sporting Achievements - Part 1

#3) Arkle’s Win in the 1965 Gold Cup

Irish thoroughbred racehorse, Arkle, was truly a sight to behold for those with an appreciation for horse racing. Winning a staggering 22 of his 26 steeplechases between November 1962 and December 1966, Arkle was simply a cut above the rest.His accolades included the Hennessy Gold Cup twice, Whitbread Gold Cup, Irish Grand National, King George VI, and three Cheltenham Gold Cups – before a career ending leg break at Kempton Park.

His performance at the Gallaher Gold Cup in 1965 revealed the pinnacle of his abilities. Defeating second placed Rondetto by twenty lengths and beating the course record by 17 seconds, this was Arkle’s defining race.From his clear display of understanding in a racecourse, to the fact that rival horse Mill House weighed 16 lb less, to the ease with which Arkle swept past Mill in just a few strides – this race will forever leave an imprint on the minds of those who were lucky enough to witness it live.

Even those like me, who can only resort to viewing it onYouTube, remain in wonder at Arkle’s performance.

For Part 2, click here: The Top 5 Greatest Sporting Achievements – Part 2