Industry mourns loss of a legend

HARNES racing is in mourning following the loss of the finest driver to grace a sulky in Australasia and perhaps the world – Gavin Alexander Lang.

While there are some who possess equal prowess around the globe, it is widely agreed there would be none better than Lang.

Lang passed away this morning following a gallant battle with a rare form of Lymphoma of which he was diagnosed with last September.

After six rounds of chemotherapy, Lang’s medical team then ordered an intensive three-month program of therapy with a drug which is available only in the USA for the master reinsman.

Sadly Lang’s body did not respond to the treatment.

Born in 1958, Lang wdestined for a life harness racing, learning to drive at the tender age of six before gaining his official licence at 16.

In what was the launching pad of a remarkable career, Lang registered his initial win with Pensive Dream in Kilmore on June 2, 1975, with his maiden metropolitan success coming behind Wilrose at the Ascot Vale Showgrounds on March 23, 1977.

Renowned for his cool, calm and collected driving style – earning him the moniker Ice Man – Lang notched his first century season in 1984, a feat he achieved 35 times, including 19 consecutive tons between the 1990/2000 and 2018/19 seasons.

Also dubbed ‘Group One Gavin’, Lang captured “around 150” top shelf events.

Victoria’s leading driver seven times, Lang also secured four national premierships and two Harness Racing Weekly Vin Knight Medals.

Lang’s achievements also include being the first driver in the southern hemisphere to reach 4000 wins and he is one of only two drivers to pass the 6000-win barrier.

National Trotguide extends it sincerest condolences to Lang’s family, friends and many admirers.