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Renowned harness racing owner and breeder George Tennent passed on Tuesday, leaving behind a significant record of success throughout Australasia.
Mr Tennent, 84, was a life member of the Victorian Harness Racing Club, having with his wife Mary enjoyed outstanding results with their brood.
They bred many handy horses, including Holdonsu (18 wins, 39 placings, $142,597 1:55.0), White Eye Markei (39 wins, 80 placings, $172,791, 1:56.3), Touchstone (19 wins, 20 placings, $75,230, 1:56.2), Silas Mariner (14 wins, nine placings, $41,973, 1:57.2), Shesashark (11 wins, 19 placings, $78,089, 1:55.7), Mended (six wins, 17 placings, $39,255, 1:55.2).
Most notably, Mr Tennent bred Shez All Rock from unraced Mach Three mare Just Irish Loch, who he bought for $11,500 at the Christchurch sales on the day of the 2011 earthquake.
The mare never qualified to race but Shez All Rock, her first foal, did what no other three-year-old filly had achieved before her.
She won three Group 1 Oaks (Victoria, New South Wales and New Zealand) as well as New Zealand’s Jewels. Shez All Rock would go on to win Harness Racing Victoria’s three-year-old filly of the year award, which Mr Tennent received and lauded her “unbelievable season”.
Harness Racing Victoria extends its condolences to Mr Tennent’s family and friends.
