Racing Victoria extends its condolences to the family and friends of Traralgon trainer Allan Douch on the passing of the long-standing and respected member of the Victorian racing industry.
Douch, 74, passed away yesterday after battling cancer for the past four years.
The passionate horseman was first granted a trainer permit in May 1969 and continued as a licensed trainer for 52 years, before attending his last raceday at Sale only two weeks ago.
The old-school trainer played a crucial role in the riding careers of Peter Mertens, Frankie Stockdale and Noel Callow, who were apprenticed to him.
On the racing front he had success with highly regarded steeplechaser Big Zap in the late 1990s and early 2000s and his last winner came in January with Ally’s Reward at Stony Creek.
RIP Allan Douch.