Lawson rose from a position on the staff at Alec Taylor Jr.'s stable to become one of the most successful British trainers of the mid 20th century.
[2] Lawson began his career as an apprentice jockey to his local trainer Thomas Barrasford at Marsden Hall.
Lawson eventually took on the role travelling head lad, meaning that he was responsible for the condition and welfare of horses at race meetings when Taylor himself could not be present.
Lawson's success continued through the 1930s, with his other major winners including Pay Up (2000 Guineas), Rhodes Scholar (Eclipse Stakes), Exhibitionnist and Galatea.
[1] During the Second World War, Lawson's team was strengthened by the arrival of the horses owned by Lord Glanely,[6] who closed down his private stable at the outbreak of hostilities.