Davy Russell: a compelling sportsperson and the last of a golden generation

In the wake of the relatively recent departures of Richard Johnson, Barry Geraghty and Ruby Walsh, Davy Russell’s retirement marks a final, conclusive disbandment of the old guard.

Three years ago the sport was able to hang its hat on four of the top ten most successful jump jockeys in the history of the game. Now, each of them has departed the stage, with new additions Tom Scudamore and Brian Hughes the only ones currently active.

It was the definitive golden era, and Russell is among the most exalted of charismatic standard-bearers, another big personality who had a zen-like affinity with Prestbury Park in March.