Brewer’s no-fear attitude leaves a big void

Brewer announced his retirement following his final ride in the Open Maiden on Brer at last Saturday’s South Durham meeting.

He will continue to be assistant trainer to Nawton racing trainer David O’Meara but Brewer’s absence from the point-to-point saddle will leave a big void.

Brewer’s no-fear attitude saw a number of horses perform better than they may otherwise have done.

But one of his most willing and memorable partners was Eliza Doalott on whom Brewer won five point-to-points and three hunter chases.

“She was so small but had the heart of a lion and didn’t know when to give in,” said Brewer.

“She was certainly one of the most memorable horses I rode and I am looking forward to seeing her offspring in the pointing field.”

Having grown up around ponies, Brewer was a member of the Sinnington Pony Club and a keen follower of the same hunt.

Graduating with an engineering degree from Loughborough University, he then started working at the Tim Walford yard.

He had his first ride at the age of 21 but was 24 before partnering a winner.

In 1999 he was the Yorkshire Men’s Novice Champion, although he had to wait another 11 years before taking the Mens’ Championship.

Since his first ride he has ridden 133 winners, 120 in point-to-points and 13 in hunter chases.

The horse that provided Brewer with his most winners was Ask Bobby, trained by Mary Sowersby and the partnership won 12 point-to-points; Key Debate was the best horse he rode for the Walfords.

Brewer’s wife Freya will continue to take charge of their pre-training and point-to-point yard.