Vale Bill GodeckeHarness & Greyhounds

Chariotsonfire

The last of the three Godecke brothers passed away this week. Golta and Renaud were just two of the quality horses that he owned and trained. The Godeckes had a big impact on the industry in the 60s and 70s. Bill moved to owning and training thoroughbreds later in life and always came across as a gentleman.

spinking

Absolute gentleman. The jockeys wore black armbands in the two year old millions race yesterday as a mark of respect. Mr Godecke trained and owned the 1999 winner of the race Nervola Belle. May he rest in peace

JayJay

The Godecke's owned a beautiful property opposite my brothers farm in Byford. There were cattle and  horses including some of the great producing mares from which they bred many stars, perhaps none better than Renaud as Chariots mentioned above, who made his mark as a truly great race horse and later a sire.

One of the most striking looking horses they bred was Red Monaro, a rich chestnut who could go like the wind but had bad legs and potentially their best horse was Suvlac who also broke down.

Throw in Fastease, Banca, Cornish Rogue, Paxman, Deep Shade, Omista, Lady Dearne, Ohtar, Aboukir, Mint Condition, Microfiche......and that is just the short list..... and their influence on WA is clearly evident. Bill was indeed a gentleman, quiet, reserved and astute and at 93 I believe, a grand innings.

Chariotsonfire

Just an aside Fred Godecke Jnr was best man at my wedding.

meatpie

Wonderful man, RIP.