CLICK HERE TO GO BACK

PEOPLE

 

YEAR: 1993

JOHN OSBORNE

The death occured last week of John Osborne, a former committeeman of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club and a prominent South Island breeder and owner.

Mr Osborne was particularly prominent in the 70s, sharing the ownership with the late Maurice Vermeulen and Jack Smolenski in the high-class mare, Royal Belmer. Trained by Smolenski, who was a partner in all his horses, Royal Belmer won 12 races including the 1973 Standardbred Breeders Stakes. Royal Belmer left Sovereign, who won the 1978 NZ Derby. Others he raced were Harvest Gold (9 wins), Imperial Guest (Golden Slipper Stakes), Regal Guest, who won two heats of the DB series, and Regent Guest.

Mr Osborne and Smolenski were partners for more than 25 years. "We never had a cross word. I left the breeding to him, and he left the training to me. He was a very good owner," said Smolenski. "His big disappointment was losing a colt foal this season by Butler B G from New Guest," he said.

Aged 61, Mr Osborne was involved in the fashion business. He had a stroke two weeks ago, and died suddenly in Christchurch last Tuesday. At the time of his death, Mr Osborne was breeding from 10 mares, and had numerous yearlings, 2-year-olds and older horses with Smolenski.

Credit: NZ HRWeekly 15Dec93



In the event that you cannot find the information you require from the contents, please contact the Racing Department at Addington Raceway.
Phone (03) 338 9094