Mike Futter, a name that resonates through the betting circles like a thundering gallop down the home stretch, has passed away at the age of 79. Known for orchestrating one of the most memorable coups in the history of the Grand National, Futter was a figure both feared and revered in the racing world. His legendary bet on Monty’s Pass at the 2003 Grand National remains etched in the annals of racing lore.
A Legendary Wager
In a move that could be described as having more heart than a valentine’s factory, Futter placed his bets on Monty’s Pass three months prior to the big race. The odds were long, standing at a distant 66-1, but Futter’s gut feeling and racing savvy led him to back the gelding week after week. On race day, as the odds shortened to 16-1, Monty’s Pass soared to victory at Aintree, leaving competitors in his wake, and rewarded Futter with a bounty of over €1 million.
The Man Behind the Bet
Futter, originally from Blackpool and later a prominent businessman in Belfast, was more than just a gambler. He was a character—a man who danced through life on his toes with a passion for horse racing. His business ventures spanned a fleet of bingo halls across Bangor and southern Ireland, and his presence in the betting world was iconic, characterized by his trademark lengthy grey hair and beard.
A Journey Through Racing
Monty’s Pass, the horse at the center of this dazzling bet, was trained by Jimmy Mangan in County Cork and carried to victory by jockey Barry Geraghty. Monty’s Pass wasn’t just a horse but a piece of racing history, living to the age of 29 before passing in November 2022. Under the ownership of Futter’s Dee Racing Syndicate, which included business individuals from Donaghadee, Co Down, the horse also earned £348,000 in prize money.
An Enduring Legacy
Barry Geraghty, reflecting on Futter’s passing, noted the deep sadness it brings to the racing community. “Mike loved his racing and was a great friend to anyone lucky enough to be involved with him,” Geraghty remarked, capturing the essence of a man whose love for the sport was as enduring as the beating hooves on a racetrack.
The Impact on Bookmakers
The repercussions of Futter’s audacious bet rippled through the betting industry, with bookmaker William Hill facing a monumental payout—the largest Grand National loss at that time. Futter’s strategic betting began in February that year, and by the time weights were confirmed and racing columnists tipped Monty’s Pass, the odds shifted, making this not just a win but a seismic event in betting history.
A Life Celebrated
As the racing world bid farewell to this iconic figure, it’s clear that his impact extends beyond the realm of horses and bets. Futter leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Janet, and children Paula, Joanna, and Danielle, as well as adoring grandchildren, Taylor, Natalie, Calvin, and Alex. The memorial service is set to take place at S. Clarke and Son’s Funeral Church in Bangor, a testament to a life lived with gusto.
Mike Futter’s story is one woven into the very fabric of horse racing, a tale that continues to inspire gamblers and racing enthusiasts alike. His journey from a bingo hall proprietor to a betting legend is a reminder of the bold moves and daring wagers that shape the thrilling world of horse racing.
