Arguably, one of the most esteemed horse racing trainers of the last century, Mick Easterby, born in 1931, essentially was raised in post-war North Yorkshire, with his formative life being shaped by agriculture; particularly farming.
For Easterby, who grey up in a picturesque landscape, life was effectively hard; like for most farming families at the time, though it was this discipline that shaped a successfu, yet, still frugal career.
Part of a considerable racing lineage, Easterby’s brother, Peter was a legendary trainer in his own right, while his nephew, Tim followed in his footsteps.
Moving to New House Farm in Sheriff Hutton in 1955, Easterby started with very little; reportedly even using a boar pig to fund his early ventures; a story he has long enjoyed talking about.
Career Highlights
There is no doubt that Easterby’s career was long and decorated. Arguably his most successful achievement on flat came with Mrs McArdy, following the win in the 1,000 Guinaes in 1977 at 25/1, with this being his only classic victory. Despite this, it cemented his win among the elite of the sport.
Meanwhile, he also trained Lochnager; the sprint king who was understood to be one of the greatest sprinters of the sport in the 1970s after he won the July Cup and the Nunthorpe Stakes during the 1976 season.
Furthermore, he could also turn his hand just as capably to National Hunt, proving this emphatically when he Peterhof in the 1976 Triumph Hurdle, which considerably highlighted his versatility.
He also trained Hoof It, who won the Steward’s Cup, while Gentleman’s Deal was another winner he trained in the Winter Derby, showcasing his ability to still be at the top his game into the 21st century.
Philosophy And Legacy Of Easterby
Famously and affectionately remembered for saying “I’m really just a farmer; training is just a hobby”, Easterby is known for his humility, while also managing a 2,000 acre holding. He became known for “shrewed handicapping”; knowing exactly when to enter a horse and which race to put it into.
As such, he effectively knew the races a horse would stand the best chance of winning with the least amount of effort and often used his own instinct; eyes and ears over the data that the yard now uses, being largely driven by his son, David.
Sharing a joint license with his son, at the age of 95 in 2026, Mick’s legacy is enduring and he still plays an active role in the decision-making, with his input still considerably valuable.
Easterby is also well regarded in the local community, having been a big driver in helping to raise over £100,000 for charity, including for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Having been a trainer for over seven decades, this remains a feat that very few across any sport can match.