Vale Ian Shalders

Long-time Ararat-based harness racing trainer-driver Ian Shalders passed away last week after a short illness when approaching the age of 94.

Shalders will long be remembered for his deeds through the 1980s with the very good mare Skipper Carissa, who won numerous races including the 1983 Galaxy Grand Slam Final at Moonee Valley (carrying a purse of $35,000) and a heat of the 1984 Sires Stakes at Ballarat when driven by his great mate Tommy Mahar.

Foaled in 1979, Skipper Carissa, a daughter of Sea Lord and Bye Bye Jade, won 15 races and possibly many more for stakes of almost $92,000.

Mahar was a regular reinsman for the stable alongside Brian Gath, with Kevin Murray driving on the odd occasion.

A shearer by trade at 15 before becoming a welder in later years, Shalders’ first metropolitan winner arrived at the age of 17 with Jingle Jingle at the Melbourne Showgrounds.

Learning the trotting trade from Mick Mahar, Shalders was a prominent trainer in his day and had success with horses such as the very smart Butleigh, United Boy, Vandertrick, Motor Trick, Star Chase, Mary Wish, Troopship, Loyal Bryce, Arabeck Avender, Barkly Street and Little Juan.

He was described as “The King” of Ararat at one stage and was loved by all.

Shalders’ funeral will be held at the John Dunn Funeral Home in Ararat on December 7.

Another Ararat identity, Mick O’Brien, who was associated with the great Whirley Dream in his early career, also passed away on Monday.

Harness Racing Victoria extends sincere sympathy to the Shalders and O’Brien families.

by Len Baker, for Harness Racing Victoria