The Clarence River Jockey Club (CRJC) and local racing identities were shocked and saddened to learn of the sad passing of John Kenny last week.

A prominent figure amongst the Clarence Valley community, and a regular attendee at race meetings in Grafton, Mr Kenny was a life member, former director, and proud ambassador of the CRJC.

He was well known and widely respected across the region for his love of horse racing and his unwavering commitment to the sport which spanned across 50 years.

Mr Kenny served as an assistant race day judge at Grafton between the early 1970s and 1980s, prior to his appointment as an official judge, a position he held for 10 years.

He served on the board of the CRJC from 1982 until 2018, and ensured every winning owner was made to feel special when their horse was first past the post.

Renowned for his willingness to always offer others a helping hand, Mr Kenny was strongly supported in his work with the CRJC by his devoted wife Dianne, who like her husband, also dedicated countless hours to the promotion of the club.

Mr Kenny will forever be remembered as a true gentleman, who always made racegoers feel welcome.

In a statement released last week, CRJC Chief Executive Officer Michael Beattie said Mr Kenny had been an integral part of Grafton racing for as long as he could remember.

“He was working as an assistant judge when I first started as an official way back in 1975,” he recalled.

“In fact, we often joked that we were the two oldest things on Grafton Racecourse, with the exception of the heritage grandstand.

“John has been a wonderful board member and ambassador in my time with the CRJC.

“He was always at me with ideas of how things could be improved for both members and guests alike.

“He always greeted you with a smile and was there to lend a helping hand.

“He will be sadly missed by all, including CRJC, staff, members and winning owners.”

Mr Kenny passed away peacefully on August 28, aged 88.