Industry mourns tragic death of legendary horseman

HARNESS racing is in mourning following news of Dick White’s tragic death.

A respected South Australian horseman, White, 85, died in a house fire during the early hours of the morning.

The fire brigade responded to a large blaze in Globe Derby Park about 2:45am, with the dwelling already burning out of control.

After relinquishing the fire, Senior Constable Kylie Simpson regretfully confirmed a “person was located deceased inside the home”.

White’s home was all but levelled, with the roof collapsed and features destroyed.

A coroner report will need to be finalised, however, the incident was not being treated as suspicious.

Widely-regarded as a horseman of the finest calibre, White prepared several handy performers throughout the years and was particularly fond of squaregaiters.

Away from harness racing White was considered a legend among the rodeo circuit.

Showing a talent for horses from an early age, White began “rough riding competitions” as a 13-year-old.

With his father disapproving of his passion, White changed his name for competition purposes to ‘Johnny Grey from Queensland’.

An accident, which saw Johhny hospitalised, uncovered White’s shifty plans to disobey his father when a police officer in attendance recognised Dick White from Kapunda.

Reportedly the injuries sustained from the fall paled in comparison to what the teen faced from his father when he got home!

Along with his rodeo feats, which include being one of the few to ride famed buckjumper Curio, at Marrabel, White was a renowned trick rider.

White also appeared in a R M Williams advertising campaign.

White’s favourite horse was a skewbald mare named Princess, which he had from 1948 to 1985.

White is survived by his wife Janet and three daughters, Maryanne, Anita and Kate.

National Trotguide extends it condolences to White’s family and friends.