Five times horse racing champion found dead

Horse owners, trainers, drivers and general racegoers were left in shock as the news spread that veteran horse racing driver George Schembri had been found dead in one of the stables at Racecourse Street in Marsa, on Sunday morning.

It seems that 58 year old Schembri mostly known by his nickname “Il-Bubuna”, had fallen down a flight of stairs in a stable where he was residing and was found dead in a pool of blood. An autopsy is being held on Monday and funeral details have as yet to be given.

George Schembri was one of the most known drivers at Marsa having won the Champion Driver title 5 times in the seasons 1988/89, 1993/94, 1995/96, 1998/99 and 1999/2000. Over the years he has won more than 700 races and registered over 1900 placings which include numerous championship and condition race finals.

Schembri will forever be remembered for his famous signature move of standing up on the sulky after the finish of important victories.

Synonymous with his name one will always associate horses such as Kysko, Adrios de Mone, Elan du Cottage, Iris des Pres and Nicolas de la Fuye with whom he registered some memorable races.

He also won the E.W. McCadie Cup with Elgraiz on 15th February 1981 which was the first meeting of the new racetrack although it was not the official opening. The inauguration meeting was held on 28th March 1981 and Schembri also won one of the 8 races with Chaland.

His last time on the sulky was on 30th December 2011 when he finished 3rd with Nevaio des Bordes in the V.O.B. Grand Final whilst his last victory dates back to 10th May 2009 with B.B.S. Balthazar in a Silver Category Race.

"On behalf of Maltastar.com readers I would like to express our sympathy to all his family members for this tragic and unexpected death", said spokersperson Lorraine Cunningham.