Date of birth: 29 May 1945 Started training: 1977 Base: Nicholashayne, Somerset Festival wins: 29 2001-2002 wins: 235 2000-2001 wins: 162 1999-2000 wins: 225 Main jockey: Tony McCoy Stable stars: Copeland, Don Fernando, Seebald, It Takes Time

The son of a bookmaker, Pipe was an amateur rider until breaking his thigh in 1972.

In 1977 he took out a trainer's licence, although he did not become champion trainer until 1989, when he had 208 winners, almost double the previous record.

Since then no trainer has had more winners each season than him and he has missed out on the title (which is calculated by prize money) just twice.

Pipe brought a revolutionary approach to training which has paid off in spades.

His method is a scientific one, with blood tests and relentless fitness training an integral part of his horses' regime.

Pipe's successes tend to come at the more unfashionable tracks but he has enjoyed his share of big race wins.

He is the second most successful trainer of all time at Cheltenham where he can number two Champion Hurdle victories in his tally of 29.

However, the Festival has not always been a happy hunting ground for Pipe.

Two of his best horses, Gloria Victis (2000 Gold Cup) and Valirimix (2002 Champion Hurdle), died at the course.

Pipe has also won the Grand National with Miinnehoma in 1994, and has had success on the Flat, landing several races at Royal Ascot as well as the Northumberland Plate and the Doncaster Cup.