The third annual Simon Benson Memorial will take place at Warragul tonight at 8.58pm, paying tribute to an impressionable young man who tragically passed away in 2016.

Two months after he endured a serious leg injury in a bike accident, Simon died from a heart attack when he was just 30 years of age.

Warragul GRC Manager Adrian Scott said the club is delighted to host a race in memory of Simon, who was a larger than life character.

“It’s an opportunity for us to recognise a young man who died under tragic circumstances. Simon was just finding his way in the greyhound industry and had created a lasting impression. He was well known within the local sporting scene and he was a very likable and cheerful young man. It’s nice to be able to support Simon’s family with this event, which is now in its third year.”

Simon was a member of the Warragul GRC, and also the ‘pro-catcher’ for leading local trainer Steve White of Paua Racing Kennels.

“Simon was my best mate. He was at Paua Racing Kennels 24/7 and made himself the Racing Manager,” Steve chuckled fondly.

“He was loved by all mainly through his character. He would relate to everyone, even if he disagreed with what someone was saying. His sense of humour was second to none and his wild stories left people rolling around on the ground in stitches. He left his mark on everyone he met.”

While Adrian suggested that the fastest heat winner, Henessy Venom (box 8) would take some stopping in tonight’s Simon Benson Memorial Grade 5 final, Steve had other thoughts.

“My tip in the race would be Riddles (box 3), because if you knew Simon he spoke in Riddles,” Steve laughed. “But I would say Simon will be barracking for Party Mix (box 1) because he always loved a party.”

The Simon Benson Memorial is a $5,000 to-the-winner Grade 5 final and is a supporting feature for tonight’s Group 3 St Leger (9.20pm), adding to a wonderful evening of racing at Warragul, which replaces The Meadows in the prime Saturday night timeslot.