He was the voice of authority, a master at conveying his observations with wit and style. Mike Tucker, whose commentary was heard over the loudspeaker for years at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and the Badminton Horse Trials, as well as on the BBC, died suddenly in England today at the age of 73.
Mike, a true all-around horseman who was a farmer, field master of his hunt and a competitor who finished second at Badminton on a homebred mount, also was well-known as a cross-country course designer. He served as chairman of the organizing committee for Olympia, London’s celebrated Christmas show, but had retired from the BBC and his Badminton duties.
Mike Tucker
“I’ve been very privileged and enjoyed some great moments,” Tucker said upon stepping down from the Badminton Horse Trials last year.
Simon-Brooks Ward, the director of Olympia, commented, “This is a great shock and sadness for all of those involved at Olympia. Mike was a friend, provided wise counsel, and was professional to the last.”