Trainer Des Kelly passed away at age 82 on June 23 at West Gippsland Hospital, Warragul.
Mr Kelly was involved in harness racing from 17 years of age right up until his death, a total of 65 years in the industry. He took over from his father, Jack Kelly, who trained Victoria Derby winner Kelly Kid.
Mr Kelly's achievements included: 1977 Kilmore Cup (Infield), 1976 Navy Cup (Infield), 1988 2YO Trotters Sires Stakes Final (Georgian Gent), Victorian Harness Racing Media Association certificate of honour for enduring and excellent service to harness racing 18/12/2008, winner 1998 software and electronics design award with his partner, Paul Dawson, for the new style mobile barrier system, has transported horses to the USA for racing, winning several races as trainer and driver while there.
Mr Kelly is the father of Michael Kelly, who drove horses for many years and piloted Infield and Georgian Gent to their victories, under his tutelage. He is grandfather of Matt Cormick, young trainer and driver starting out in the industry and already tasting a degree of success. Also grandfather to Daniel Cormick, Matt's younger brother, who was in the industry for a brief period, hopefully to return to it in the future.
Mr Kelly's funeral will be held at 11am next Friday, July 1, at St Joseph's Church in Iona.
