Champions (1984 film) Champions (1984 film) Champions is a 1984 film based on the true story of jockey Bob Champion. It is directed by John Irvin, produced by Peter Shaw, written by Evan Jones, and stars John Hurt, Edward Woodward and Jan Francis. The film is based on the true story of Bob Champion (portrayed by John Hurt), who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1979. After treatment with an operation to remove the diseased testicle and chemotherapy, Champion recovered and went on to win the 1981 Grand National on Aldaniti. In 1984, John Irvin was nominated for a Golden Bear Award at
Graham Lee (jockey) with a daughter and a son, and lives in Bedale, North Yorkshire. <br>Grand National – WON : Amberleigh House, 2004. <br>Scottish Grand National – WON: Grey Abbey, 2004 <br> Cheltenham Festival Top Jockey – WON: 3 wins, 2005 <br>Cheltenham World Hurdle – WON: Inglis Drever, 2005 <br>Cheltenham Supreme Novices Hurdle – WON: Arcalis, 2005 <br>Steward's Cup – WON: Hawkeyethenoo, 2012 <br>Charlie Hall Chase – WON: Ballybough Rasher, 2003 <br>Irish Grand National – 2nd: Nine De Sivola, 2007 <br>Ryanair Chase – 2nd: Kalahari King, 2011 <br>Totesport Bowl – 4th: Calgary Bay, 2010 <br>Cheltenham Gold Cup – 5th: Grey Abbey, 2005 NH