Vale, David Merrick

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of David Merrick, a well-known and respected figurehead in the thoroughbred breeding industry. Over his distinguished career and a lifetime of producing thoroughbreds, David was honoured with multiple awards for his dedication to breeding, including the prestigious Murray Bain Award in 2018, recognising outstanding service and hands-on practice, as well as the Thoroughbred Excellence category of the 2019 Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards.

David’s career in the breeding industry spanned five decades, beginning at Woodlands Stud, where he grew up and foaled down Heart of Market, producing champion racehorse Marscay. David also witnessed Marscay’s final days at Widden, where he is now buried alongside other thoroughbred greats like Bletchingly. In the 1980s, after returning from working in Newmarket and Kentucky, David moved to Baramul Stud as the Yearling Manager. Here he raised many sale toppers for the late Sir Tristan Antico, including the first-ever Australian million-dollar yearling, a colt by Bletchingly from Verdi, who he took through the ring himself.

David began his journey at Widden Stud in 1992 and became Stud Manager in 1993, dedicating 33 years to the farm and producing numerous Group 1 winners. David touched the lives of many, and his work ethic and approach to mentoring ensured that numerous young members of the industry had the opportunity to learn under his guidance and develop into skilled horsemen and women, many going on to enjoy their own successful careers in the industry.

Having spent his entire life on stud farms in the Hunter Valley, David’s legacy is one of passion, loyalty and leadership. His deep commitment to Widden Stud and the Australian thoroughbred industry is a testament to his fidelity, and the one-on-one relationships he enjoyed with clients and staff reflected the respect and trust he earned from all who had the privilege of working with him.

David was known for his total involvement in every aspect of the business at any time of the day or night, year after year. His unwavering dedication not only to Widden Stud and its people, but to the greater Australian thoroughbred community, will never be forgotten.

David leaves behind his wife Jean King, and daughters Georgia and Amory. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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