Canadian owner Robert Murphy dies

Prominent harness racing owner Robert Murphy of Surrey, British Columbia died Monday. He was 77.

 

A long-time horse breeder and owner known by his popular Red Star moniker, horses owned in whole or in part by Mr. Murphy had earned over $100 million as of March 2009. In 2008 the BC Standardbred Breeders Society proudly recognized Murphy and his wife Mary by renaming the BC Breeders Stakes 3-year-old races in their honor.

 

Mr. Murphy leaves behind his wife of more than 57 years, Mary, as well as three daughters--Denise, Linda and Sharon.

 

"It's hard to imagine the BC harness racing industry without Bob's involvement," said Chuck Keeling, general manager of Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino. "I can't think of anyone who has had the type of impact on this province's industry like Bob, Mary, and the rest of their family. Everyone knew these last few years were a struggle for him health-wise, but it's still a shock to learn of his passing."

 

Jackson Wittup, Standardbred Canada Chair who has known Murphy for years dating back to the Wittup's work with Stampede Park, also offers his reflection on one of Canada's top owners.

 

"Standardbred racing across North America was dealt another severe blow with the passing of Robert Murphy. Bob had horses all over North America as well as his home base in B.C. and a large stable in Alberta. I believe Bob was a very significant investor in the proposed new track in the Calgary area and wanted Standardbred Racing to survive in that market.