Indian racing has lost one of its finest jockeys of the golden era. Nelson Reuben, who passed away today, was among the most accomplished riders of the 1970s, a period when Calcutta was one of the great centres of Indian racing.

Reuben was a highly regarded rider, known for his skill, judgement and ability to get the best out of a horse. His name is inseparably linked with some memorable horses and races of that era. In 1974, he achieved the rare distinction of winning the Indian Derby at his first attempt, partnering Topmost to victory. He remains among the very small group of jockeys to accomplish that feat.

Another memorable chapter came in 1979, when Reuben took over the riding of the great Royal Tern following the tragic death of his regular jockey Karl Umrigar. He partnered Royal Tern to victory in the Maharaja`s Cup and then the President of India Gold Cup, beating the formidable Own Opinion.

Contemporary accounts place Reuben among the leading riders of the Calcutta racing scene, alongside names such as Richard Alford and Robin Corner. He was part of a generation of jockeys who gave Indian racing much of its colour, character and romance.

For those who watched racing in the 1970s, Nelson Reuben was more than a name in the race card. He was one of the riders who helped make that era memorable. Indian racing will remember him with respect and affection.

Nelson Reuben: Rest in peace.