Tragic Passing Of Troy Donaldson

GROUP 1 winning trainer Troy Donaldson has tragically passed away at just 38 years of age.

The heartbreaking news has left the entire greyhound community in mourning, especially on the central coast where Donaldson called Wyee home with wife Chrystal and their two children Jet and Scarlett.

Considered a shooting star among the training ranks, it was only in January that Donaldson reached the pinnacle of his profession when guiding Queensland superstar Oh Mickey to victory in the Group 1 National Derby at Wentworth Park.

Enjoying sustained success with his always competitive team of chasers, Donaldson guided Bones McCoy to victory at Ladbrokes Gardens on Saturday night, just hours before his sad passing.

The news of Donaldson's death has left an entire industry reeling with the much respected father of two much loved and respected by all.

That includes Oh Mickey's Queensland based owner Clint Kratzmann who was struggling to come to terms with the devastating news on Sunday morning.

“I've known Troy for a few years, I bought my first good dog Iona Champion from him, and then together we bred Oh Mickey,” said an emotional Kratzmann.

“I'm lost for words, I really am. Just heartbreaking.” 

Kratzmann says he'll be forever indebted to Donaldson for the job he did with Oh Mickey while in Sydney.

“It was the first Group 1 victory for both of us and a night together I will always remember … my thoughts are just with his beautiful family now,” said Kratzmann.

“This is absolutely tragic news. I had spoken to Troy only a few days ago and he was in great spirits.

“Troy changed my fortunes in greyhound racing by selling Iona Champion who then produced Oh Mickey. I owe him so much and for as good a trainer as he was he was an even better bloke.”

It's understood that the NSW GBOTA, GRNSW and GWIC will issue statements within the next 24 hours, offering unwavering support to the Donaldson family during this unthinkable time.