This is a portrait of Shergar ridden by Walter Swinburn. He won the 1981 Epsom Derby in England by 11 lengths, the highest winning margin in history.

He became England's most popular race horse but tragically, one year after he was retired to stud duty he was kidnapped supposedly by the IRA for a ransom of two million dollars. His owners asked for proof that the horse was still alive before they would pay out and were never given any. It turns out that very soon after being kidnapped Shergar, being a typical thoroughbred stallion became difficult to handle and they shot him. His remains were never found.

He remains one of the most well loved horses and his famous rider became a national hero.

1981 Epsom Derby

12 1/2" X 11 3/4" On Bristol Smooth. 5mm Clutch pencils H,HB, 2B, & 4B.

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