Tributes pour in for Alastair Down after death aged 68
Alastair Down
Award-winning racing journalist and broadcaster Alastair Down has died at the age of 68.
The former Channel 4 Racing presenter won racing writer of the year five times while working for The Sporting Life and the Racing Post. He also had the Cheltenham press room named after him.
The BHA posted on X: “A genius with a pen and a peerless broadcaster, Alastair will be remembered as one of the greatest writers in racing history.
“His contribution to the sport was immeasurable and he will be sorely missed on British racecourses.
“The thoughts of everyone at the BHA are with Alastair’s family and friends.”
The Racecourse Association said: “All at the RCA are saddened to hear the news of Alastair Down’s death.
“His words across a long and successful career delivered the best of our sport to countless readers, inspiring many new fans and writers.
“We were delighted to see his name honoured @CheltenhamRaces last week.”
Down’s former colleague Derek Thompson said: “No one could bring racing alive in print in such a tangible and electrifying way.”
