- Known for his larrikin nature
- Missed by thousands of mourners
- Will have race named in his honour
The Australian thoroughbred racing industry is mourning the loss of renowned jockey, Alan ‘Jock’ Gollogly, who passed away on Monday following a long illness at the age of 72.
A special commemoration will be held at Royal Randwick this Saturday where the Australian Turf Club will honour Gollogly’s memory by naming a race after him.
‘Jock Gollogly was a unique character who was well known and respected throughout the industry,’ Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys said.
‘You would not find a more passionate racing person who possessed a fantastic sense of humour and was a master storyteller.’
Gollogly’s passing has been felt deeply within the racing community, with tributes pouring in from across the country.
Racing and Sports executive director Gary Crispe recalled fond memories of the late hoop’s early riding days in Brisbane.
‘Those great memories of Jock and Bengala Lad winning a stack of races inc I think a Doomben 10000. Lovely man, RIP,’ he wrote.
Alan ‘Jock’ Gollogly was known for his larrikin nature as much as he was known for his racing
The Australian Turf Club will name a race after Gollogly at Royal Randwick this weekend
Fans and friends have also expressed their condolences and shared memories of his larrikin manner, cheeky smile, and the captivating stories he told of his racing exploits.
‘Farewell dear Jock. We will miss your larrikin manner and that cheeky smile. Condolences to his beautiful family. I hope he’s having a beer up there with Alan. Cheers mate,’ one racing fan posted.
‘Used to shout Jock a few beers when I was bar Manager at Quirindi jockey club and he was doing cup day MC there a great bloke and great stories he had of racing RIP Jock,’ posted another.
‘What a lovely, kind and welcoming man was Jock. Loved what he did and did it for as long as he could. I didn’t know him that well, but whenever I saw him at the races he made me feel like I was his mate. His warm spirit and generous attitude will be sorely missed. RIP Jock,’ Sky Racing journalist Greg Prichard wrote.
Born in Queensland to a successful jockey father, Gollogly followed in his family’s footsteps.
After completing his education at Nudgee College in 1968, he was apprenticed to his grandfather, Fred Best – a winner of 17 Brisbane Trainers’ Premierships and an Australian Hall of Fame inductee.
Gollogly’s career in the saddle was marked by numerous successes. He won the Brisbane Apprentices’ Premiership in 1970-71 and rode Bengalla Lad to victory in the Group 1-Doomben 10,000 in 1972.
His career took him beyond Australia’s shores with an eight-month stint in Hong Kong with George Moore in 1975. The following year, he relocated to Newcastle, where he remained for the rest of his life.
In his later years, Gollogly transitioned to media roles, working with Prime TV, Sky Racing Radio, and the Newcastle Herald. His final role was as the official track clocker for top Newcastle trainer Kris Lees.
Gollogly’s passing is a significant loss to the racing industry. His sincerity, compassion, and dedication touched many, leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
He is survived by his long-time partner, Lindsay.
