Racing NSW has been advised of the sad passing of former rails bookmaker Mr Eric Conlon, aged 93.
“Eric Conlon was one of the last old-fashioned bookmakers and for a long time was a welcome and familiar sight on Sydney racecourses until his retirement,” said Racing NSW’s Chief Executive, Mr Peter V’landys AM.
“It was Bookmakers like Eric that added much colour and charisma to the racecourse.
“We pass on our condolences to Mr Conlon’s family and friends.”
Eric Conlon first commenced fielding on the Sydney rails in 1951 and was the last of the ‘pencil’ bookmakers to switch to computers.
Eric, nicknamed ‘Mo’, was also last of the each-way bookies when most were offering win only or place only prices.
Mr Conlon shut his bag for the last time aged 86 in November 2016 and was given a guard of honour off Canterbury Park Racecourse.
In his honour, Australian Turf Club has named the final race on the Kensington Track this Wednesday the 'Vale Eric Conlon Handicap'.
Funeral details have not yet been finalised.