MY TIME FOR A WARM DOWN

Robert Cooper reflects on tragedy and triumph during his 50+ years in racing

- Robert Cooper

Just now the mundane seems such an attractive option; I will find out for myself on July 30 when I wave farewell to the daily grind. About time too, with a few gaps on my voyage, I've been on the go since September 1, 1969 the week after Bob Dylan's Isle of Wight concert; I wasn't there but a fellow trainee city slicker started on the same day. As we say on TV, it's time for a break.

However, I mention the appeal of uneventful daily life in the aftermath of the unspeakable horror that has been inflicted on my colleague John Hunt. Seldom has racing been so united with their love and support for John and his family. Such a hammer-blow is impossible to imagine but I hope and pray that the indomitable human spirit of survival will permeate John, his daughter Amy and their family, and emerge from this darkest of tunnels, most definitely not unscathed but with courage and our support, to return to a peaceful continuation of their lives.

I've decided on the first thing I'd do if I was successful with my application to be CEO of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) once the current incumbent Julie Harrington steps down at the end of the year. It's a far cry from the cushy life of a broadcaster but I'm sure the money is good, and even if I only lasted a couple of months there's bound to be a six-figure pay-off. Cancel that the application form says 'no previous experience necessary' and I've only spent the best part of half a century ferreting a living at the cutting edge of the racing industry. So maybe I'll email the poor blighter who gets the job and make a few suggestions.