A pioneer of the harness racing industry has been remembered as inspiration who transformed standardbred breeding.
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Young studmaster John Gibson died on Saturday following a short illness aged 82, but his legacy will live on at Success Stud.
A trainer-driver in his own right, Gibson’s role in introducing American stallions is where he left his greatest mark.
During his time he imported around 70 stallions to Australasia, including the legendary Fake Left.
Daughter Jackie said she and her mother Mary had been overwhelmed by social media tributes.
“I’ve been really humbled by the messages that have come through and it’s quite amazing that, not only in our industry did he touch so many people in all walks of life,” she said. “He was very much a mentor to a lot of people and an inspirational, very positive man.”
Gibson made a name for himself in Queensland before moving to Young in 1993 with a thought of retirement.
The retirement never eventuates with the Gibson family still heavily involved in breeding industry, especially with semen transport.
In recent times, Two Eye See and Makes Every Scents have been flying the flag for the Gibson family in group one races.
Albion Park and New South Wales Harness Racing Clubs arranged for black armbands to be worn in his honour last weekend.
Funeral details are still being finalised.