Here’s one to tug the heartstrings. A lovely photo of the late Ken Russell with his devoted wife Carol around 1992. The couple had just returned from Dubai where Ken and Michael Clarke had represented Australia in a world jockey challenge. Neither figured in the rankings, but enjoyed the experience.
Ken Russell lost his life in a freakish accident at Rosehill on Oct. 9th 1993, just thirty five minutes after winning the previous race on a horse called Whivory. He was 42 years old.
Ken’s riding career began in 1972 in Central Queensland, and it was soon obvious that he was destined for a bigger stage. He won 500 races in the central districts before graduating to the Gold Coast, where he put together four premiership wins. He managed to win a Brisbane metro premiership while still based on the coast, and by this time he was considering a couple of Sydney options.
It was trainer Dr. Geoff Chapman who initially lured Ken to Rosehill, but it wasn’t long before most leading stables in Sydney were utilising his services. He had two significant stable affiliations. The first was with Nebo Lodge after Jim Cassidy had relinquished the number one spot, and the second with Jack Denham.
Ken’s riding record stands as testimony to his talents. Total wins 1,804. He won 4 races in a day on 24 occasions, and recorded 106 trebles. His Group 1 successes were , Doncaster (Merimbula Bay), Queensland Derby (Hidden Rhythm), Queensland Oaks twice (Triumphal Queen and Round The World), Goodwood Hcp (Euclase), Spring Champion Stakes (Sakana) and George Ryder Stakes (Bureaucracy). Just for the record throw in the Magic Millions on two occasions (Sea Cabin and Malibu Magic).
Ken had the respect of all sections of the racing industry and was revered by his legion of friends. He liked nothing better than a cold beer, and a sing song around the piano.
Ken was a devoted husband and father, and it’s so sad that he didn’t live to see the achievements of his sons Daniel and Chris, and only daughter Sara.
Great to receive a phone call from Carol Russell just last week. I told her the photograph would appear on this week’s Flashback. She said the “Monto Marvel” would be deeply touched that he’s not forgotten.