Remembering Sir Peter O'Sullevan, the legend who lit up the sport for so many

On this day 100 years ago a man who became synonymous with two distinct spheres came into being. Sir Peter O’Sullevan CBE was born on March 3, 1918 in Newcastle, County Down.

Horseracing and broadcasting gained immeasurably from his association with them, while a third sphere, those of registered charities, will benefit from his legacy for years to come. For the rest of us, memories of this unique man will invariably revive in the tumult of the Cheltenham Festival. Everyone has their own.

O’Sullevan’s imprint is everywhere in racing – not least on the rollcall of Cheltenham winners. Already esteemed as a commentator, his status advanced further in 1974 when Attivo, a horse he owned, justified odds-on billing in the Triumph Hurdle. O’Sullevan delivered the call without once betraying any personal involvement in the winner.