• Horse Racing

Comply or Die owner Johnson passes away

ESPN staff
July 6, 2013
Comply or Die (left) won the Grand National in 2008 © Getty Images
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David Johnson, owner of 2008 Grand National winner Comply Or Die, has lost his battle with cancer.

London-born Johnson, who also owned Well Chief, winner of the Arkle Trophy, and Celestial Gold, which won the Paddy Power Gold Cup and Hennessey Gold Cup in 2004, passed away aged 67.

"It is very sad news," said Comply or Die's trainer and close friend David Pipe. "He was more than an owner - he was a great friend.

"We had a lot of success together. He was champion owner numerous times, but more than that it was great fun - he made it great fun.

"He was a real enthusiast. That day at Aintree was one we will never forget - it was wonderful to win the National for him.

"It is a sad loss to his family and to racing."

Johnson also owned Champleve, Take Control, Cyfor Malta, Our Vic, Classified, It Takes Time, Liberman, and Or Royal.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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