Mick Channon
Saturday November 21 2009
Southampton Solent University awarded Saints football legend and successful racing trainer, Mick Channon, an honorary degree during Saturday’s (November 21) match between Southampton and Norwich City – two of the clubs he played for during his illustrious footballing career.
The former Southampton striker received a standing ovation from both Southampton and Norwich fans as he was presented with an Honorary Doctorate of Sport by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Van Gore, at St Mary’s stadium during the half-time interval.
During his career Mick Channon won 46 caps for England, scoring 21 goals. But he will be best remembered for his exploits at Southampton, where he scored 228 goals and won the FA Cup in 1976.
He made a total of 718 league appearances during his career, including Manchester City, Newcastle, Bristol Rovers, and will be remembered by Norwich City fans for the part he played in the club’s 1985 League Cup win.
He retired from football in 1986 and began his racing career as assistant trainer to John Baker and Ken Cunningham-Brown before he took out his own licence in 1990. His first Group One success came with Piccolo in the 1994 Nunthorpe Stakes and he has gone on to win many more valuable races. In 2002 he topped the 100-winner mark for the first time, ending the season with 123 winners.
Southampton Solent University Vice Chancellor, Professor Van Gore, said: “We are delighted to bestow this thoroughly-deserved honour on Mick Channon, whose achievements in both football and horse racing are truly inspirational.”
For further information contact Solent University's Media Office on 023 8031 9040