It is with shock and profound sadness that I inform the polo community that Jaime Mackay died yesterday of a heart attack whilst in Byron Bay, aged 63. NSW Polo Association President Ian McDuie had watched one of Jaime’s horses win at Scone Races yesterday and called him to share the news earlier in the day. Ian described him as a great friend and huge supporter of polo and the players.
As the nephew of 10 goaler Bob Skene, Jaime followed in his family’s polo playing footsteps and held a handicap of 7 goals. Undoubtedly one of the best players Australia has ever seen, Jaime played and captained Australia in many test matches between 1974 and 1991 with fellow players such as Richard Walker, Sinclair Hill, Jim MacGinley, Ross McGilvray, Jim Gilmore and Stuart Gilmore. In 1980 he played in the 34 goal Rest of the World team which beat a 32 goal England team in the Coronation Cup by 6 - 4; Jaime received the Most Valuable Player award.
Jaime owned Cangon Stud and bred many magnificent horses, both polo ponies and race horses. At the Australian Polo Hall of Fame inaugural dinner on 28th March this year, Jaime was presented with awards for two remarkable Mackay ponies ‘Castinette’ and ‘Panzer’.
He was President of the Wirragulla Polo Club which he reinvigorated in the 1980’s to make it the active club it is today. He was a Director of NSW Polo Association for 15 years (1984-1991 and 1997-2005) and held the position of Vice-President (2002-2004), where he was responsible for initiating disciplinary policies.
Jaime was the devoted husband to Jenny and proud father of Jock and Catriona and grandson Jack. Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the Mackay family upon this untimely loss.
Suzie Ruse
For NSW Polo Association
General arrangements will be advised when they come to hand.