The Queensland harness racing industry has lost one of its most loyal servants following the passing of Des Weeks.
Weeks, 81, dedicated more than 40 years of his life to the industry as both a trainer and driver, where he built a reputation as one of the state’s most impressive and talented horsemen.
As a trainer, Weeks sent around almost 4000 runners, notching up 573 wins, and 1721 placings, earning almost $1 million in prize money.
The multi-talented horseman also drove for the majority of his time in the industry, racking up 555 winners from 3600 drives.
His most significant drive came in 1986, where he partnered Scientific to claim an Inter Dominion Series heat at Albion Park.
“Racing Queensland extends its deepest condolences to the Weeks family following the passing of Des,” RQ COO Adam Wallish said.
“Des was an incredibly successful in and out of the sulky and will be remembered as a part of the team that saw Scientific become the first Queenslander to win an Inter Dominion heat on home soil.
“His legacy will live on through his son Darren, but it’s a somber day for the entire industry.”
Des is survived by his children Darren, Alison, Michelle and Christine, and his grandchildren Josh, Ethan, Fletcher and Ella.