HUSSEY
GOOD THINGS come in large parcels. Just ask veteran jockey Charles Hussey.
The four-time champion, who first rode for his father Laurie in 1970 while still attending Jamaica College, has twice being publicly recognised for his contribution to the racing industry in recent months.
Last Saturday, Hussey was conferred with the National Honour the Order Of Distinction O.D. (Officer Class), joining Winston Griffiths as the only jockeys to be so honoured.
Hussey, who turned 48 in June, is in fact one of four racing personalities to be awarded the O.D. for long and distinguished service in recent years.
HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
The others are many-time champion trainers Philip Feanny and Kenneth Mattis and of course, 'Fanna' Griffiths. All four have been inducted to the Hall of Fame of Thoroughbred Racing as well.
The most recent was 'Charlie' Hussey, who on June 2 this year was honoured with his 'Hall of Fame' scroll at the annual Pre-Derby awards dinner at the Knutsford Court Hotel.
"I am happy to receive yet another honour in a matter of weeks. This however is the finest achievement for me. It's truly a great honour, the award paying tribute to the hard work and dedication I have put in as a jockey over so many years", said Hussey who has been riding for 35 years, eight of these (1978 to 1985) with noted success on the North American circuit.
How longer will he continue riding?
"Retirement is the farthest thing from my mind right now". he says. "So long as I stay healthy and still have that will to come to the track morning after morning to work horses, I will continue to ride as long as possible.
"I have been feeling pretty good this year and you can see the result of this in my riding. I never thought I would feel this good at my age.... thanks to a rigid physical training programme and good nutrition, I might just last another 10 years in the saddle", he jokingly remarked.
To date, Hussey has ridden over 1,100 winners locally (32 this season) to be second to Griffiths on the all-time list. In addition, he has ridden over 800 winners on the North American circuit.
ACCOMPLISHED PAINTER
Outside of racing, Hussey is an accomplished painter who runs an etching and neon sign business as well. He confessed that focusing on two professions full time took its toll on him mentally and physically last year. So early this year he took a decision to concentrate less on business and more on racing.
Hussey said his family, including wife Alicia, father Laurie, mom champion owner Ruth Hussey and brother, trainer Percy Hussey, among others, is very happy for his O.D. recognition.
"They have played an important role in my development and I owe them a lot", he concluded.
Hussey will formally receive the Order of Distinction scroll at a civic ceremony on the lawns of Kings House on Heroes Day, Monday, October 17.
- O.C.
