09 January 2008

Racing legend passes away

Racenet

Jockey legend George 'Cotton Fingers' Moore has passed away overnight, after a long illness, aged 84.

Many regard Moore as Australia’s greatest jockey, which is justified considering his 119 Group 1 wins remains the riding benchmark in this country.

Also, he was the first rider inducted into Australia’s Sporting Hall of Fame, and for Sydney jockeys the ultimate award is winning the George Moore annual medal as the premiership-riding champion.

During the 1950-60s, Moore and Tommy Smith dominated Sydney racing in spite of the jockey-trainer’s stormy love-hate relationship.

But Moore proved his versatility by winning 11 Hong Kong trainers’ premierships. His sons Gary and John are successful trainers in Asia.

The New South Wales Racehorse Owners Association would like to pass on its deepest sympathy to all members of the Moore family and acknowledge what a great legend George was for racing. He will be sadly missed by all, RIP.