Racing Minister, Winston Peters, has today paid tribute to an icon of the industry following the recent passing of New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame member, Dave O’Sullivan (OBE).
“Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says.
“His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then more notably as trainer, over 70 years was immense.
“Dave O’Sullivan’s sustained success over several decades was testimony to his skill and dedication.
“His contribution on and off the track has enriched the New Zealand racing industry and he leaves a significant legacy that his family and the nation can be proud of.”
Having celebrated his 90th birthday late last year, Mr O’Sullivan’s health recently deteriorated and he passed away at his Matamata home in the company of family members.
“Dad would be the first to admit he had a wonderful life,” his champion jockey son, Lance, told ThoroughbredNews.
“He was a world-class horse trainer and highly competitive, but most of all for us, he was a wonderful family man.
“He worked hard and expected others to as well, but he was always very fair. I would describe him as one of the last living legends of the old school.”
Mr O’Sullivan’s funeral will be held at 11:30am on Thursday 2 May at Matamata’s Church of the Holy Angels.
