Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) extends their deepest condolences to the family of Keith Watson, who sadly passed away after a boating incident Monday.
As a leading jockey in Western Australia for many years, Mr Watson was a well-regarded and respected member of the WA racing community.
In addition to riding in all States of Australia, Mr Watson also experienced international success. In 1980, he was the champion jockey in Mauritius, and went on to ride in the UK in 1985. Mr Watson last rode races in Malaysia in 1987, before moving back to Australia where he continued to ride trackwork until 1998.
One of Mr Watson’s most well-known partnerships was with champion sprinter, Heron Bridge, who he regularly rode. In 1984, Mr Watson won the Newmarket Handicap at Flemington on Heron Bridge, who became the first WA horse to ever win the race. The pair went on to win the Group 3 Hyperion Stakes at Belmont twice, in 1984 and 1986.
RWWA, along with the wider WA racing community, is saddened by the news of Keith Watson’s passing.
As a well-respected member of the racing community, and a leading jockey in WA for many years, his legacy and contribution to the industry will always be remembered.