Trainer's father carves out new career

Sculptor Nigel Varian at work in arcadian surroundings

As the father of Roger Varian, he helped mould the career of one of the sport's outstanding trainers. Since retiring, Nigel Varian is shaping other figures through sculpture.

Varian, 69, took up his new pastime after he retired as a systems engineer five years ago and has created the trophy that will be presented to the winner of the Racing Post Trophy.

It is the result of nearly 50 hours work based on a photograph of son Roger during his riding days.

Read the full story

Read award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing, with exclusive news, interviews, columns, investigations, stable tours and subscriber-only emails.

Subscribe to unlock

Racing Post digital newspaper (worth over £100 per month)
Award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing
Expert tips from the likes of Tom Segal and Paul Kealy
Replays and results analysis from all UK and Irish racecourses
Form study tools including the Pro Card and Horse Tracker
Extensive archive of statistics covering horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, pedigree and sales data

Already a subscriber?Log in

Jon Lees

Published on 21 October 2016inNews

Last updated 18:15, 21 October 2016

Copy