Even people who had no interest in racing were familiar with the “Goondiwindi Grey” who retired the greatest prize money winner in Australian racing at the time. Such was his fame that he was popularized in song by Tex Morton, and his statue adorns the small Queensland border town of Goondiwindi. His connection with the small country town though does not go beyond that of his owners, who purchased the grey from the Brisbane yearling sales for the sum of $1300. It must have been an interesting sale, because I personally know of at least half a dozen people who lay claim to having been the underbidder on the famous horse.
Gunsynd had his first career start for Brisbane trainer Bill Wehlow on 11 October 1969, winning the QTC Hopeful Stakes over 5 furlongs (1000m). He won the Sapling Stakes at the same course and distance three weeks later before going out for a break. Gunsynd returned in February to win
