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As well as being one of the oldest licenceholders when he died last week at the age of 86, Jim Ferguson was a bright personality who enjoyed a versatile life. He was a Southland butcher who moved to Tinwald nearly 50 years ago and expanded the harness racing interests he started as a lad working for Alf Scott and Jack Walsh.

In his era, he was a champion professional track sprinter, and twice, in 1941 and 1946, won the prestigious Tuatapere New Year's Day Sheffield (over 135 yards). Between times, he was an air gunner with the RNZAF based in England and Ireland.

His flagship horse was Maida Million, a mare by Brahman he raced in partnership with Les Dyet. She won nine races before being sold and joining Eddie Cobb's stable, where she raced with great success and was four times leading aged mare in the U.S.

He trained Rustic Lad to win 14 races for Southland owner Bill Faulkner. Most notable was the one in May, 1958, giving Maurice Holmes his 1000th winning drive. As a driver, one of his most memorable occasions was one with Fiery Cross at Forbury Park, where a rein broke and he had to climb on the back of the horse to bring it under control. For that, the club made a presentation to him.

His best trotter was Bachelor Tom, a speedy and stylish trotter by Bachelor Hanover who won 14 races, and others of note included Hobart Lord, Fantastic and Noodlum's Fella. His last winning drive was Five Star at the Hororata meeting in 1996, his last training win came with Toffee Nose at Ashburton a year ago, and three years ago he was still driving at the workouts.

He was ably supported by his wife and companion Noline, who shared the same love of horses and racing. He is also survived by a daughter Robyn Robb, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Credit: HRWeekly 6Dec06