*Article by Michael Manley for racing.com
Brian McGrath was hoping he could get Cantina to win at Moonee Valley last Friday night for loyal owner John O’Rourke on the day it was announced he would become the next Richmond Football Club President on December 19.
Cantina, whose colours are that of the Richmond jumper, tried hard in the final race the Benchmark 64 but couldn’t catch the all the way winner Elteecee and had to settle for second placing.
On Thursday at Mornington, McGrath is hoping the Tiger colours can salute as they will be carried by three-year-old filly Shanghai Venture.
McGrath said O’Rourke, his brother Steve and Ray Wilson who run the Plenary Group had been massive supporters of his since he took out his training licence.
“He’s been a great supporter. He’s a good fellow and given me advice along the way.He and his brother and Ray Wilson have supported me from Day One,” McGrath said.
McGrath said John O’Rourke was a great mate of his father Jim and they raced several horses in partnership.
He explained in their partnership they took it in turns to race their horses in different colours with his Dad choosing North Melbourne colours for his horses.
The O’Rourke’s uncle Jack played 44 games for Richmond from 1949 to 1953.
John O’Rourke was also on the VRC Board for nine years.
They also race Old Fashioned which also races at Mornington today.