John Bagshaw, a prominent figure in the world of harness racing, passed away at the age of 87 at his Sydney residence. Bagshaw, a former chairman of Harness Racing Australia, left a lasting legacy as a breeder, owner, and industry official. His involvement in standardbred breeding spanned over four decades, evolving from a leisurely pursuit into a successful commercial enterprise.
In the 1970s, Bagshaw co-founded the Golden Gait Stud in New South Wales, marking the beginning of his significant contributions to the breeding industry. His partnership with Alabar principal Alan Galloway led to a deepening involvement in breeding operations, with notable horses like Keystone Pat, What’s Next, and Embrace Me under his ownership.
Bagshaw’s breeding endeavors yielded remarkable success, with horses like Village Jasper, Armbro Operative, Safely Kept, and Stoneridge Scooter enhancing his reputation as a breeder. Notable champions bred by Bagshaw include Mother Courage, Tandia’s Courage, La Coocaracha, Mr Nickel, Keppel Bay, Blatant Lie, and Crusader’s Castle, among others.
Former Alabar studmaster John Coffey hailed Bagshaw’s influence on the industry, emphasizing his pivotal role in Alabar’s success during the 1990s and early 2000s. Bagshaw’s leadership as the chairman of Harness Racing Australia was particularly commendable, with his stewardship highlighted by the comprehensive 2011 Standardbred Breeding Panel Report, which remains relevant to this day.
Bagshaw’s impact extended beyond breeding, as he served as a director of the NSW Harness Racing Club and the inaugural chairman of the NSW Lotteries Corporation. His dedication to harness racing and his reputation as a gentleman of integrity left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
In a separate development, champion cyclist Gary Hull delved into the world of harness racing breeding, unveiling a promising talent in the form of three-year-old trotter Mecarno, a standout performer at Melton. Meanwhile, mare Calypso Mistress, under the ownership and training of Don Lock, secured consecutive victories at Melton and Geelong, showcasing Lock’s prowess in the sport.
Portland breeder Heath Bourke continued his winning streak with Quick Decision, a successful contender at the Maryborough midweek fixture. Bourke’s consistent success with a select group of broodmares underscores the enduring appeal and excitement of harness racing breeding.
John Bagshaw’s legacy as a visionary breeder and industry leader remains a testament to the enduring allure of harness racing and its profound impact on the equestrian world. His contributions will be remembered and celebrated by generations of enthusiasts and professionals alike.
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