Rod marshalling 'the girls' at Puhinui International Horse Trials in 2015
We are saddened to hear of the death of 76 year old Rod Winchester who passed away at the Gosford Hospital this morning. We have enjoyed many hours in Rod’s company at events not only in Australia and New Zealand but around the world of eventing where Rod was one of the most enthusiastic and loved characters.
His affection for the sport and the riders involved was palpable but he was also a stickler who, as Equestrian Australia Chair Judy Fasher says, “was a determined marshaller of riders and always ensured they were on time for the start. He was absolutely fantastic”
The Equestrian Australia statement reads
“Born in England, Rod travelled to many eventing competitions throughout NSW, QLD and Victoria to assist as a volunteer gate keeper and cross-country marshall.
He was a much loved character and hugely popular with our riders. People like Rod play a vital role in equestrian sport and we are very thankful for his contribution.
"He was an absolutely devoted soldier for Eventing," said Equestrian Australia Chair Judy Fasher.
Rod was a determined marshaller of riders and always ensured they were on time for the start. He was absolutely fantastic."
“Rod will be greatly missed. He was such a dedicated and joyful volunteer who was very well known and loved nationwide,” said Equestrian Australia Eventing Committee Chair Wilhelm Enzinger.
We send our condolences to Rod’s family and we will be thinking about him at the Start Box for many years to come
