Darby’s career to be celebrated

Toowoomba race day to honour turf great.

Darby McCarthy unsaddles There You Go watched by trainer Terry Courtney at Victoria Park Racecoursein 1977. Picture: File

RACING : One of Australia’s most gifted and successful jockeys is to be honoured in March when the career of Darby McCarthy will be celebrated.

The inaugural Darby McCarthy Race Day will be held at Toowoomba Turf Club on Saturday March 14.

The event, organised by the South West Indigenous Network (SWIN), will pay tribute to McCarthy’s contribution to the racing industry both on and off the track.

SWIN is a recognised multi-sport organisation which provides leadership, guidance and support to the Indigenous communities of southwest and southeast Queensland through opportunities in sport, physical activities and recreation.

Darby McCarthy in 1978. Picture: File

McCarthy is recognised as one of Australia’s greatest Indigenous jockeys.

He rode more than 1000 winners in Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

His Group One successes included three Stradbroke Handicap wins, an AJC Derby and Epsom Handicap.

McCarthy later set up an apprentice school for Indigenous youths who wanted to become involved in the racing industry.

The race day function will be held in the Clive Berghofer Grande Atrium from 4pm.

Tickets are $75 each which includes one complimentary beer, house wine or soft drink on arrival. Canapes to be served.

Phil Coorey will be the night’s MC.

Race naming and major sponsorships are available for the seven-event meeting and function.

More information is available from SWIN chairman Peter Jackson on 07 4637 9865.

Function bookings can be organised through the web at toowoombatickets.com.au

# SWIN exists to ensure through sport, culture and community, indigenous Australian’s can live longer and have a better quality of life.