URGENT UPDATE: In a heartwarming tribute to their late friend, a group of five mates from Assumption College, Kilmore, celebrated a significant victory as their horse, Eamonn’s Memory, triumphed at the Berrigan Gold Cup on October 21, 2023. This win comes 13 years after the tragic loss of their friend, Eamonn “Euwie” O’Connor, who died at just 19 years old in a skiing accident at Mount Hotham in 2012.
The seasoned brown gelding, named in Eamonn’s honor, has become a symbol of their enduring friendship. Will Gorman, one of Eamonn’s closest mates, emphasized the emotional weight of the race, saying, “It was more than just a win; it was a reminder of our bond.” The incident that took Eamonn’s life occurred shortly after their group completed Year 12, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.
The opportunity to invest in a racehorse arose a few years later, thanks to Frazer Dale, son of trainer Andrew Dale. “Frazer put the feelers out to our friendship group, and we all jumped at the opportunity,” Gorman recounted. The horse has since captured the hearts of the community and the syndicate, consisting of Gorman, Jones, Miller, and Sessions, who collectively decided to name the horse after their beloved friend.
Despite not being a champion, Eamonn’s Memory has shown remarkable spirit on the local racing circuit. Gorman noted, “He’s really starting to come good,” after recent wins in Deniliquin and Jerilderie.
The standout moment came at the Berrigan Gold Cup, where Eamonn’s Memory, ridden by jockey John Kissack, displayed grit and determination, charging down the final stretch to secure victory. The Berrigan and District Racing Club praised the win on social media, remarking, “It was the crowd, the colors, and the Berrigan spirit. Eamonn’s Memory won the cup, and we all know why.”
This victory not only honors Eamonn’s legacy but also strengthens the ties among the group. Gorman reflected on the significance of the home-town race, stating, “It brought back a lot of memories from when we were younger. That’s something to hold on to for sure.”
With 14 wins and 18 placings from 79 starts, Eamonn’s Memory has amassed a lifetime career prize money of $260,175. The group may not always attend the races, but they cherish each gathering as a chance to reconnect and celebrate their shared history.
As the mates continue to keep Eamonn’s spirit alive through their racing endeavors, they invite the community to join them in honoring their beloved friend with each race. This victory at the Berrigan Gold Cup stands as a poignant reminder of friendship, loss, and the enduring legacy of a life cut short too soon.
Stay tuned for updates on Eamonn’s Memory and what lies ahead for this remarkable horse and the friends who cherish his legacy.
