Bendigo thoroughbred racing icon Allen Browell has passed away aged 79, following a battle with illness.
A highly respected member of the Victorian racing community across more than 60 years, Browell worked as a pre-trainer, trainer, owner, breeder, and clerk of the course.
His first winner as a trainer was Jodie’s Gift at Rochester in 1971 and Browell went on to find great success with Amarla, who won the 1980 Turnbull Stakes and 1981 Easter Cup, and Jet Fighter who went back-to-back in the 1987 and 1988 Victoria Handicaps at Caulfield.
Among his other notable performers were Walk With Me – believed to be the first horse to win at all four Melbourne tracks – city winners Zale, Lapushka’s Boy, Two Hills and Hai Lil, along with Done And Dusted who won a Marong Cup at Bendigo.
RV Chief Executive, Andrew Jones, said: “On behalf of the Victorian racing industry, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Allen’s family and friends following the sad news of his passing.
“Allen spent over 60 years as an active participant in Victorian racing and was a much-loved stalwart of the Bendigo racing community. Allen was devoted to his horses and family who have lived and shared his passion for racing.
“We know Allen will be deeply missed by his family and all in the racing community who knew him and we acknowledge the significant contribution he made to Victorian racing.”
ATA Chief Executive, Andrew Nicholl, also expressed his condolences.
“All within the training fraternity will be saddened to learn of Allen’s passing. He was a valued ATA member across his training career and contributed so much to the sport," he said.
“Allen was a great man from a great racing family. He was passionate about the sport and a highly accomplished exponent of the art of training racehorses.
“He gave his life to Bendigo, where he was respected by all, and we know that his contribution will be long remembered by the local racing community."