Former Group 1-winning jockey Peter Mertens has sadly passed away at the age of 58 after a battle with illness.
Mertens enjoyed an illustrious 35-year career, amassing over 2,100 wins, including seven Group 1 victories in Victoria and South Australia.
Notable among his triumphs were the 1999 Futurity Stakes and the 2007 Mackinnon Stakes.
After retiring from riding in 2014, Mertens transitioned into training, leaving an indelible mark on the racing industry.
He is survived by his wife, six children, including the talented jockey Beau Mertens, and three stepchildren.
Peter Mertens will be remembered as an outstanding jockey and a respected figure in the racing community, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of riders.