Queensland’s equestrian and thoroughbred racing industries and the Cairns Jockey Club are mourning the loss of influential and iconic character Clive Gordon, the voice of the Far North’s equine scene, who died earlier this month, aged 87.
Mr Gordon was regarded as a legend of the racing industry, dedicating more than 40 years to the Cairns Jockey Club in a number of roles before retiring as the club’s Clerk of Scales in 2019 at the age of 84.
He accumulated more than 70 years of experience in equestrian sports, having started out as a 12-year-old competitor at the Cairns Show in 1946. The main arena at Cairns Showgrounds was been named the Clive Gordon Arena in his honour several years ago. It is also likely there will now be a race named in Mr Gordon’s honour.
Cairns Jockey Club president Tom Hedley said Mr Gordon had the “most beautiful voice”.
Mareeba Turf Club president Alex Malliff said Sunday was a “very sad day for racing” in North Queensland.
“It didn’t matter how long someone had been on the scene, he knew every rider, trainer, (and) horse and he was very accurate. He’ll be remembered as a gentleman, but also for his tones as a caller and then his in-depth knowledge of racing,” Alex told local press.
Cairns-based trainer Peter Rowe was among those who posted tributes on social media.
“Devastated to hear of the passing of one of the most supportive, kind-hearted and amazing people in Mr Clive Gordon. Your support towards my training but more so my race calling career will never go unnoticed,” Peter said.
