| PEOPLE |
YEAR: 2007
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The death occurred on June 23 of Wally Ireland, a prominent and successful North Canterbury harness racing identity. He was 85.
A saddler and saw doctor, Ireland worked for Vic Alborn and Cecil Devine and drove Maori Home to win the NZ Free-For-All in 1951.
In 1965 he bought Heathmount with Bernie Stratford, and the bred Classiebawn, the winner of 10 races including the NZ Standardbred Breeders Stakes in 1978.
Classiebawn produced nine winners from 10 foals; Mark Ireland winning seven with Montrose, and Michael Stratford, Brenie's son, winning eight with Stonechrubie.
Credit: HRWeekly 4July07