Orville Clarke, Freelance Writer
HUSSEY
HAVING BEEN conferred with the National Honour the Order of Distinction (OD) at a civic ceremony at King's House on Heroes Day, four-time champion jockey Charles Hussey was honoured at a dinner held at the Terra Nova Hotel on the same night.
Despite heavy rain, the function - put on by the jockey's family in recognition of his achievement in a career spanning 35 years - was well attended by not only the Hussey clan, but members of the racing fraternity including top trainers Wayne DaCosta, Philip Feanny and Anthony Nunes along with leading jockey Brian Harding.
Also present was the chairman of CTL, William Chin-See.
Significantly, this has been a watershed year for 'Charlie' Hussey. In addition to becoming the fourth racing personality, behind trainer Kenneth Mattis, Feanny and leading all-time jockey Winston Griffiths, to receive the Order of Distinction (officer class), he was among four new inductees to the 'Hall of Fame' of Thoroughbred Racing back on June 2, for a long and distinguished career as a jockey at home and abroad.
DELIGHTED
In his address to the gathering, Hussey said he was delighted to share in the occasion with his family, friends and members of the racing fraternity.
"The Order of Distinction is a prestigious honour which I humbly accept as recognition of the dedicated longevity and commitment to the racing industry, beginning with my first win 35 years ago," Hussey said.
"I would like to express gratitude to the Government of Jamaica and all significant entities who have thought me worthy of such as esteemed award. I am also grateful to all the players in the racing industry.
"Today has demonstrated to me the results of a supportive family and dedication. My parents, Ruth and Larry, instilled in me from very early the significance of integrity, endurance and hard work in all my endeavours; which is the foundation of all my achievements to date.
THANKED FAMILY
"I'd also like to thank my loving wife Alicia, my three sons, Shane, Ryan and Brandon, who have played their special roles in my life. And to all my brothers and sisters; Michelle, Percy, Angie and Andrew. Especially Percy my big, little brother who, since birth, has always defended and supported me greatly to the max. I would like to a say a very special thanks for that Percy," he said.
'Charlie' also paid tribute to his mom and dad for the roles both played in his development. "You have indeed earned my love, admiration and respect throughout the years", he told them.
Also paying tribute to Hussey was Laurence Heffes, president of the Jamaica Racehorse Owners' Association. He described Hussey as "a jockey par excellence, a gentleman, a friend ... thanks to the joy you have brought to racing."
Also speaking was trainer Percy Hussey (his brother), his niece Christelle Harris, her father, Anthony Harris (his brother-in-law), and trainer Anthony 'Baba' Nunes.
Now 48, Hussey rode his 1,139th winner locally in Super Natural at Caymanas Park last Saturday. In addition, he has ridden over 800 winners while riding on the North American circuit from 1978 to 1985.
