The Sunraysia harness racing community is saddened by the sudden passing of former Mildura Harness Racing Club President Barry Bottams on October 17 at the age of 79.
Growing up in Irymple, Barry was taken to the trots as a 12-year-old and his love of the sport commenced almost instantaneously, in later life was to join the MHRC committee occupying numerous positions before being elected president in 1974, taking over from long serving Ray Hepworth who had held that position for a considerable period.
During his time at the club, Barry was seen in numerous roles’ including farrier, bookmakers supervisor, mobile barrier driver, starter, track attendant and other chores when needed.
His presidency lasted for a club record period of 26 years.
Barry was honored by the presentation of the HRV Distinguished Service Medal in 2016.
Other recognitions were the 2008 ‘Volunteer of the Year’ at the Mallee Sports Star Ceremony and the Mildura ‘Citizen of the Year’ in 2021.
Barry and wife Lorraine raced and bred numerous winners over the years his first being Kiwi Joy, a Yankiwi filly foaled in 1958 and at the time of his passing was racing a Sweet Lou gelding by the name of Indianas Son trained locally by Danny Weinert which was a prize in a Perth free service raffle.
Mark Kemp former MHRC Secretary/Manager paid tribute to Barry saying that ‘nothing was ever a problem for him – being available at any time of the day when needed’
Barry is survived by Lorraine and sons Tim, Andrew and Simon.
Harness Racing Victoria offers condolences, thoughts and wishes to the Bottams family.
