Adrian Pettit, a former trainer and steward, passed away this morning after a battle with illness.
Mr Pettit had most recently been a casual steward in the Mildura region, presiding over race meetings and helping Mildura Harness Racing Club at trials.
Acting HRV Chief Steward Nick Murray said Mr Pettit was “first and foremost a true gentleman”.
“Adrian was such a genuine person with the way he approached life and interacted with others,” Mr Murray said.
“Adrian was very conscientious and committed to his role with the HRV stewards. He was a popular figure and valuable asset to the group, officiating within the northern region of the state, performing his role at Mildura, Ouyen and Swan Hill race meetings.
“Adrian will be sorely missed by the team and on behalf of the HRV stewards I extend my sincere condolences to Sharon and Adrian’s extended family.”
Mr Pettit began stewarding after a move to Mildura in 2016, having previously been a harness racing trainer.
Born in Naracoorte, he went to school in Apsley before moving to Ballarat where he became involved in the trots, including racing 15-time winner Jasmarilla, who won both her two and three-year-old Sires Stakes for Mr Pettit.
A part-time trainer for more than 30 years, he continued his passion when he moved back to South Australia and stabled at Mawson Lakes near Globe Derby Park, before later relocating to Mildura.
Mr Pettit is survived by his wife Sharon Pettit and Harness Racing Victoria extends its sympathies to his family and friends
Harness Racing Victoria