Bradley, who rode Bregawn in the famous running of the 1983 Gold Cup when Michael Dickinson saddled the first five finishers, had been suffering from semantic dementia15:25, 02 Jul 2026Updated 10:38, 03 Jul 2026Legendary Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey Graham Bradley has died, aged 65.‌During an at times controversial 22 year career, Bradley rode more than 700 winners, including the winners of the Champion Hurdle and Irish Grand National.‌But he was best remembered when he rode Bregawn to victory in the 1983 Gold Cup in which trainer Michael Dickinson saddled the first five finishers.‌Bregawn, the 100-30 favourite in the 11-runner field, benefitted from an astute front-running ride from Bradley and found enough reserves to hold off the challenge of Captain John over the last two fences and triumph by five lengths with Wayward Lad third, Silver Buck fourth, and, a long way behind the winner, Ashley House eventually clinched fifth place and made sporting history.A family statement released by the Injured Jockeys' Fund said: "It is with profound sadness that the family of Graham Bradley confirm his passing following a courageous five-year battle with semantic dementia."One of British racing's most talented and respected jockeys, Graham will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements on the racecourse but also for his kindness, humour, and love for his family and friends.‌"Graham passed away peacefully with his beloved wife, Bob, and cherished daughter, Georgia May Bradley, by his side. The last words he heard were: "We love you, and it's OK to go now.""He fought his illness with courage and dignity, surrounded by the unwavering love and support of his family. A private cremation will take place on Friday, 10 July, in Poitiers, France.‌"A memorial service celebrating Graham's life will be held at a later date in his hometown of Wetherby, with details to be announced.Bob and Georgia May would like to thank everyone for the kindness, love, and support shown throughout Graham's illness and ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time."Live for today, tomorrow is promised to no one."‌Bradley's other Cheltenham Festival-winning feats included victory on the Collier Bay in 1996 Champion Hurdle and four successes in the Grand Annual Chase, which remains a record by a jockey.He rode Wayward Lad in the last of his three King George VI Chase successes. His best finish in the Grand National was a second place on Suny Bay in 1998.He retired in 1999 and set up as a bloodstock agent. Footballers Steve McManaman and Robbie Fowler were among his clients. He also bought the star 2m chaser Well Chief.‌Content cannot be displayed without consentBut in 2002 he was banned from racing for five years after he was found guilty of passing on inside information for reward, details of which were aired in a BBC Panorama investigation.His friend, former Grand National winning jockey and trainer Brendan Powell, said: "He was one of the best riders I ever rode with. He had horses in training with me at one time as well. We all knew Brad. As his book said he could be a 'Wayward Lad' but he was also a very kind man with a great side to him. He's at peace now."Article continues belowEight-time champion jockey Peter Scudamore said: "“I will remember him as a fantastic jockey and a great golfing partner, but above all else the kindest man,” said eight-time champion jockey Peter Scudamore.“He was a larger-than-life character - and ‘character’ is the strongest word to describe him.”