The Sunraysia harness racing community is mourning the loss of trainer Ricky O’Brien who died of a suspected heart attack aged 62.

Ricky’s daughter Brittany said her father died doing what he loved.

“He had just fast worked Shadow Terror and that was it,” Brittany said.

“It’s such a shock as he was always fit and healthy, he would run around the stables and always had a smile on his face- he was such a happy person,” she said.

Ricky’s first winner was with the pacer Spreadthehuda at Ouyen with Kate Gath in the sulky in 2005.

Born in Mildura, Ricky’s best pacer was Shadow Terror who has won 19 races while he also enjoyed success with On The Buzzer, Craigmore Prince, Dawns Peach, The Best Sound and Thermal Reactor.

Ricky is survived by his wife Tracey and children Brittany, Luke and Kristy.

Harness Racing Victoria sends its sincere condolences to O'Brien's family and friends.