In an emotional tribute to his family following the historic win, Waley-Cohen, who announced his retirement earlier this week, said: “It’s a dream. I can’t believe it. I’ve got to say thank yous, because it’s my last ever ride. To Dad, for unwavering belief and love over 23 years – never a cross word, nothing but a dream. To my wife, long-suffering!
“This is beyond words. It’s a fairytale, it’s a fantasy, and I’m just full of love, happiness and gratefulness.”
Waley-Cohen is a firm friend of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and attended their wedding. The couple wished him a “huge congratulations” on their social media.