On the opening day of the season, York Racecourse will remember Grady, a faithful friend and lifelong companion to Jeremy Cassel, who helped his owner share the magic of visits to the Knavesmire.

Since 1931: Guide Dogs have transformed the lives of over 36,000 people and Grady was one of them.

After the first race, a bronze marquette of Grady will be unveiled by his owner, both in tribute and significantly as a way of continuing to raise funds for a charity that relies on public donations.

The life size reproduction will become the second piece of work from master sculptor, Mark Coreth, to be on display at York Racecourse. World renowned for his ability to capture subjects from the animal kingdom, Mark was chosen by the late Prince Khaled Abdullah to remember Frankel. The likeness of the world’s highest rated thoroughbred and winner of the 2012 Juddmonte International can be seen by the Sir Henry Cecil Gates, at the northern end of the course.

Grady will look towards the Winner’s Enclosure from the shadow of the Melrose Stand. Racegoers will have the opportunity to consider donating to the charity and should remember to rub Grady’s nose for luck!

(caption: Jeremy Cassel remembers Grady with sculptor, Mark Coreth, looking on)