Jimmy Lindley Obituary, How He Died, Wife, Children

Former Classic-winning jockey turned BBC broadcaster Jimmy Lindley has died at the age of 86.

Jimmy Lindley’s cause of death was not revealed. However, considering his age, it is believed he died of natural causes.

Jimmy Lindley possessed rare strength in a finish and it is no coincidence that his three English Classic victories were all gained by a short head or a head on sub-standard winners – Only For Life (1963 2,000 Guineas), Indiana (1964 St Leger) and Kashmir (1966 2,000 Guineas).

Jimmy Lindley gained his most famous win on Aggressor in the King George in 1960, beating Petite Etoile and Lester Piggott by half a length. The nearest he came to winning the Derby was in 1964, when his mount Indiana was cut down by Santa Claus’s late burst and beaten a length.

Jimmy Lindley won the 2,000 Guineas with Only For Life in 1963 and Kashmir in 1966 and the 1964 St Leger on Indiana.

Jimmy Lindley’s soothing tones would be heard as a paddock expert, commenting on horses as they paraded, and analysing races.

Jimmy worked alongside the likes of Sir Peter O’Sullevan and Julian Wilson and was a fixture at big meetings such as Royal Ascot.

Jimmy Lindley also helped bring top American jockey Steve Cauthen to Europe and acted as his mentor.

Jimmy Lindley retired from race riding in 1974 and was a broadcaster for the BBC for nearly 30 years.

It is not known whether Jimmy Lindley was married as well as whether he has children since it appears the ace broadcaster kept his personal life away from the media.