UPDATE: In an emotional tribute, a group of friends is keeping the memory of their late friend, Eamonn “Euwie” O’Connor, alive through their racehorse, Eamonn’s Memory, which just achieved a remarkable victory at the Berrigan Gold Cup today. This poignant moment marks 13 years since Eamonn’s tragic passing in 2012, when he suffered fatal injuries from a fall at a ski lodge.
The group, comprised of five close friends from Assumption College in Kilmore, is united by their love for racing and their shared memories of Eamonn. Will Gorman, a member of the syndicate, shared, “We were all at boarding school together, we were great mates. This win brings back so many memories.”
Eamonn’s Memory, trained by Andrew Dale, has become more than just a racehorse to the friends; it symbolizes their enduring bond. Following Eamonn’s tragic death, the friends seized the opportunity to invest in the horse, naming it in his honor. “Frazer Dale put the feelers out, and we all jumped at the opportunity,” Gorman explained.
The horse has shown impressive form lately, notching wins in Deniliquin and Jerilderie. However, the victory at the Berrigan Gold Cup was particularly special. Ridden by jockey John Kissack, Eamonn’s Memory showcased his strength, surging down the stretch to claim the title in front of a cheering crowd.
The Berrigan and District Racing Club celebrated the emotional win, stating on their Facebook page, “Eamonn’s Memory won the cup and we all know why.” This win is not just a racing achievement; it represents a heartfelt connection to their past and the spirit of camaraderie that Eamonn fostered among his friends.
With a career record of 14 wins and 18 placings from 79 starts, Eamonn’s Memory has earned over $260,175 in prize money, further solidifying his status as a local favorite.
The group reflects on their shared history, recalling happy times spent at Gorman’s family farm in Berrigan, where they forged deep ties and created lasting memories. “We don’t always get to the races, but it’s a great catch-up every now and then. This hometown race brought back a lot of memories,” Gorman added.
As the friends celebrate today’s victory, they remain committed to keeping Eamonn’s spirit alive, using their shared love for racing as a way to honor their cherished friend. This story of friendship, loss, and remembrance resonates deeply, making Eamonn’s Memory not just a racehorse, but a living tribute to a life cut short too soon.
Stay tuned for more updates on Eamonn’s Memory as he continues his racing journey, representing the unbreakable bond between friends and the enduring impact of love and memory.
