Limerick’s racing community mourns the loss of Mr John R. Gubbins, a prominent racehorse owner renowned for his successes on the turf. He passed away yesterday afternoon at his residence in Bruree, leaving behind a legacy marked by his ownership of two famous Derby-winning horses.
Mr Gubbins, who was in his sixty-seventh year, was the fourth son of the late Mr Joseph Gubbins from Bruree. He achieved remarkable acclaim through his ownership of Galtee More, which triumphed in the Two Thousand Guineas, the Derby, and the St. Leger in the year 1897. His other celebrated horse, Ard Patrick, secured victory in the Derby in 1902.
A distinguished figure in the racing world, Mr Gubbins served as the High Sheriff of Co. Limerick in 1886. Despite facing health challenges in recent years, he remained a significant presence due to his substantial wealth. His financial standing was fortified by an inheritance from his uncle, Mr Wyse, an Irish distiller. Upon returning to Ireland from America, Mr Gubbins swiftly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of horse racing.
His expertise extended beyond ownership; Mr Gubbins was a skilled horseman who achieved numerous victories on both flat tracks and cross-country courses. Galtee More’s triumphant run in the Derby was a notable achievement, where it outperformed Lord Rosebery’s Velasquez. Similarly, Ard Patrick’s Derby victory, secured against the formidable favorite Sceptre, further solidified Mr Gubbins’ reputation.
Both of his prized horses, Galtee More and Ard Patrick, were products of his own breeding efforts. The Russian Government acquired Galtee More for an impressive sum of £20,600, while a well-known German sportsman secured Ard Patrick for the same amount. Mr Gubbins collabourated with trainer S. Darling at Beckhampton in the pursuit of excellence on the track.
With the passing of Mr John R. Gubbins, the racing world has lost a figure whose dedication, expertise, and achievements have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Morning Leader – Wednesday 21 March 1906
