Person

1753 - 1807

Samuel "Sam" Chifney Snr (1753–1807) born in Norfolk, was a pioneer of professional race-riding, developing a trademark late finishing style, known as the 'Chifney rush' and was the retained jockey of the Prince of Wales. He became the leading horseman of his day, winning four runnings of the Oaks and the Derby on Skyscraper. Sadly his career ended in 1791, after a scandal around a ride on the Prince of Wales's horse, Escape. Despite inventing the 'Chifney Bit' for horses, that is still in use today, he died in debtors' prison in London.