‘Me Old Mate’
Sadly, this year has seen the passing of two of the unquestionable legends of our Industry, Roy Purdon and Jim Dalgety. Along with Derek Jones, these guys have had enormous influence, both horse and human wise.
When you consider the family trees of these gentlemen, it is hard to imagine what harness racing in New Zealand would look like, without the involvement of their ‘progeny’. If you add up the Jones and Butt horsemen and women, the Purdon sons and son in law, along with the younger Dalgety’s, and the Dunn’s, who, although not related, have benefitted greatly from Jim’s knowledge through their father’s tutorage when he worked for him, it’s fair to say our landscape would be very much the worse.
Having grown up with these household names and enjoyed their company although much more with Derek than the other two gentlemen, I can say it has been a privilege.
Rest in peace, all of you.
Pete Cook