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TOM BRANKIN

The recent death of Tom Brankin will illicit memories for many of an earlier era in harness racing. President of the Hororata Trotting Club from 1981-87 and later its patron, Brankin was a pragmatic and respected leader.

He wrote 'Trotting Beneath the Nor'West Arch', reflecting the slub's first 40 years. Although representing a one-day club at annual conferences, he was given responsibilities chairing discussion groups and was respected for his sound judgement.

Brankin spent his early days in Little River, later farming in Darfield. He and his late wife Rosalie raised a family of six children. A capable rugby player for Darfield and the Ellesmere sub-union, he later became a fine administrator.

In partnership with the late Leo May, he raced several horses, the most successful being the talented mare, Alice In Wonderland. A true gentleman, Tom's presence, particularly at country race meetings in Cantebury, will be missed.

Credit: HRWeekly 10Apr2013