Ben Cecil, a renowned figure in the world of California thoroughbred racing, passed away at the age of 56. His impact on the sport is undeniable, as evidenced by his remarkable training career and the horses he brought to success.

Remembering Ben Cecil - A Champion Trainer's Journey

Early Beginnings and Family Legacy

Ben Cecil came from a racing family with deep roots. His father, David, was the twin brother of Henry Cecil, a highly successful trainer who won 25 British classic races. Cecil himself got his start working for trainers in both Great Britain and Australia, honing his skills and building a foundation for his future career in California. He worked as an assistant for trainers Gary Jones and Rodney Rash before taking the reins of the stable after Rash's passing in 1996. This early experience allowed him to learn from the best and develop his own unique training style.During his time in California, Cecil trained a string of outstanding horses. One of his most notable achievements was with Golden Apples, the 2022 champion grass mare. Golden Apples started her career in Ireland but was brought to Cecil's barn in the summer of her 3-year-old year. She went on to have an incredible career, winning the 2001 Del Mar Oaks (G1) in her first start in California. At age 4, she won three times, including twice at the top level in both the Beverly D. (G1) and the Yellow Ribbon (G1), earning her year-end honors despite a fourth-place finish in the 2002 Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf at Arlington.In addition to Golden Apples, Cecil also trained Grade 1 winners Donna Viola, Squeak, and Passinetti. Between 1996 and 2024, he amassed a remarkable 2,420:325-335-312 record and almost $25 million in career earnings. His ability to train horses to reach the highest levels of competition was truly remarkable.

Recent Successes and Long-Term Support

Even in his later years, Cecil continued to have success in the racing world. In 2024, he had two wins at the maiden special weight level with Hot Legs Romolo at Santa Anita in March and Look Forward at Del Mar on Nov. 8. These wins were a testament to his continued skill and the respect he commanded in the racing community. Both of these horses were owned by Reddam Racing, who had been longtime supporters of Cecil during his career in California. Their continued faith in him was a sign of the impact he had made on the sport.Ben Cecil's legacy in California thoroughbred racing will not be easily forgotten. His training achievements, combined with his family background and the respect he earned from his peers, have left an indelible mark on the sport. He will be remembered as a true champion trainer and a significant figure in the history of California thoroughbred racing.