Vale Vin McConnell

Vin McConnell, a Victorian harness racing trainer, driver, breeder and owner who had the sport "in his blood", has passed age 67.

The Euroa farmer was the brother of the late Bernie McConnell and son of Hugh McConnell, a family who shared a rich passion for the trots according to Vin's wife of almost 29 years, Tracy.

"It started out as a hobby for him," Mrs McConnell said. "He just loved it all. It was something that continued through his family's bloodlines."

Mr McConnell shared the success of Another Season, who won 11 races, with his father and brother, the latter a trainer-driver who sadly passed at age 37 at Yarra Glen.

Vin McConnell began to train and drive in his own right from 1984-85 and continued until 2000-2001, training 33 winners from 384 starts and driving 15 winners from 240 starts.

He achieved a career highlight on June 27 1983 at Moonee Valley when Ted Demmler steered his trotter, Wanganui Wizard, to victory in the Victoria Harness Racing Club Trotters Derby.

Mrs McConnell said more recently he had helped Euroa trainers David Jack and Cameron Maggs prepare their horses, where he would attend "five mornings a week, which kept him occupied".

A service for Mr McConnell will be held at St John's Catholic Church, Kirkland Avenue, Euroa on Tuesday May 7 from 11am. The cortege will proceed at the conclusion of prayers to the Euroa Lawn Cemetery. All are welcome.

Harness Racing Victoria extends its condolences to Vin McConnell's family and friends.

 

Harness Racing Victoria