Bill Gibbins, the founder of the modern Jericho Cup, died Dec. 3 at age 78, just a few days after the race he revived was held for the eighth time Nov. 30. Racing Victoria termed his passion for charity, history, and horse racing as legendary.
Gibbins not only revived the concept of World War I's Jericho Cup in 2018, but also funded the prize money for the race and for the trainer's bonus for the first four editions of the longest flat Thoroughbred race in Australia at 4,600 meters (about 2 7/8 miles).
"It is with great sadness that Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria acknowledge the passing of philanthropist and highly respected contributor to the Victorian racing industry Bill Gibbins following a long battle with illness," an RV statement read.
The Jericho Cup is a race steeped in history. Approaching the end of the First World War, the Australian Light Horse were planning a major offensive against the Turkish Empire. In order to lull the enemy into believing nothing unusual was afoot, a race meeting was organized on the eve of the assault. The main race was called The Jericho Cup over 3 miles through the desert sands. The winner was Bill the Bastard, probably Australia's Greatest War Horse.
Revived by Gibbins in its 100th anniversary year in 2018, the race for Australian- and New Zealand-breds is traditionally held on the fourth Sunday after the Melbourne Cup (G1) at Warrnambool Racecourse in Victoria.
Gibbins' list of charitable contributions also includes organizations like Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia and Wheelchairs for Kids. He was awarded Member of the Order of Australia in the Queen's Birthday Honors in June 2021 for significant service to horse racing and to people with disabilities, as well as his philanthropic generosity.
Gibbins and his wife, Lolanda, are both life members of the Warrnambool Racing Club, and Bill was inducted into the WRC's Hall of Fame in 2024.
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Bill Gibbins' family and friends on behalf of everyone at Racing Victoria and the Victorian racing industry," RV chief executive Aaron Morrison said. "Universally loved and highly respected, Bill's contribution to both racing and the community cannot be understated. Thanks to Bill's vision and passion, we now run Australia's longest flat race, the Jericho Cup, a recognized and much-anticipated event on the annual racing calendar. Bill contributed over $1 million of his own money to fund the first four Jericho Cups because that was exactly the type of person he was—he stood up for what he believed in. He was passionate about Australia and its heritage and recognized the importance of remembering our servicemen and women, something that I'd like to personally acknowledge and respect."
A memorial service was held for Gibbins Dec. 15 at Flemington Racecourse.
