Big Buck's, one of the greatest staying hurdlers of all time, has died at the age of 23. Owned by the late Andy Stewart, he was part of a golden era for trainer Paul Nicholls, alongside Kauto Star, Denman, Master Minded, and Neptune Collonges.

Initially viewed as a potential top-class chaser, a fall at the 2008 Hennessy Gold Cup led to his return to hurdles. He went on to win the Stayers' Hurdle a record four times, the Liverpool Hurdle four times, and the Long Walk Hurdle three times.

Nicholls paid tribute, saying, "Ability-wise he was probably as good as anything I've ever trained." He highlighted Big Buck's relationship with Ruby Walsh and his trademark flat spots before surging to victory.

One of the last survivors of that legendary Ditcheat squad, Big Buck's retired after a record 18 consecutive National Hunt wins, only surpassed by Altior. Nicholls reflected on what might have been over fences but praised his hurdling dominance, calling him "invincible" over hurdles.