Racing mourning the loss of Norman Casse
The racing world is mourning the passing of Norman E. Casse after a long illness on Sunday at the age of 79. A co-founder of Ocala Breeders' Sales Company in 1974, he served as chairman of the OBS board for 28 years until stepping down in 2006.
Casse owned and operated Cardinal Hill Farm for many years and served as chairman of the Society of International Thoroughbred Auctioneers, helping set black-type catalog standards. During his tenure at the helm of the OBS board, the company grew from regional to international status, and added OBS Feed & Supply and the Inter Track Wagering facility to its operations.
Among the many horses he sold at OBS were Breeders' Cup winner and champion Gilded Time; multiple Grade 1 winner Lost Code, who earned over $2 million at the races, and Melbourne Cup (G1) winner Beldale Ball. He was also responsible for breeding and selling graded stakes winners Hi Friend Code, Isitingood and Ifyoucouldseemenow.
"Norman Casse was a true pioneer of our sport and left a rich legacy," said present OBS board chairman Michael J. O'Farrell. "He was as proud of the growth of OBS as he was for the success of his children. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was always there for someone in need regardless of their social status. He will be missed."
Casse is survived by his wife, Galina; sons Mark, Justin, and John, all of whom are prominent horsemen; and 10 grandchildren.
A memorial will be held at OBS on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. (EDT). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Martez Hawkins Fund, 6851 Southwest 66th St., Ocala, Florida, 34476.
(Photo courtesy of the FTBOA)
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