The harness racing industry is mourning the loss of prominent owner and breeder Richard Matthews, who passed overnight following an illness.
Mr Matthews was the founder of Matthews Petroleum, a long-time sponsor at the Hamilton Harness Racing Club.
A regular participant at the yearling sales, Matthews raced Diamonds N Furs who lined up in consecutive Inter Dominion Grand Finals in 2008 and 2009.
Among the many talented trotters Matthews raced was Let Me Thru, who won six Group 1 features including the Australasian Trotting Championship Final and both the 3YO and 4YO Breeders Crown Finals.
Let Me Thru was one of seven individual winners left by Invasions Pride, who was raced by Matthews before he sent her to the breeding barn.
The list of Matthews bred and owned winners is lengthy and it includes Lagoon Lady, Giveitatry, Soextra, Lady Patti, More Wanted and Yambukian.
In more recent times Matthews enjoyed plenty of success with Catch A Wave, who is the pre-post favorite in tomorrow night’s first heat of the Downbytheseaside Victoria Derby and one of the leading contenders for The Eureka.
Harness Racing Victoria offers its condolences to Mr Matthews’ wife Pauline along with his two sons and daughter, and his family and friends.
