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The Australian racing industry is mourning the overnight passing of former top jockey John Marshall, 60, following a battle with cancer.

“John Marshall was an elite jockey; humble and a thorough gentleman,” said Mr Peter V’landys AM, Racing NSW’s Chief Executive.

“John competed with distinction in an era with an abundance of great jockeys and his combination with the legendary Bart Cummings was one of the most successful partnerships in racing.

“We pass on our sincere condolences to his family on losing such a wonderful man so close to Christmas.”

The late John Marshall pictured with his son, Taylor

John won a long list of races for Bart Cummings aboard such outstanding horses as Beau Zam (AJC Derby; one of five Group 1 wins), Sky Chase, Campaign King and Shaftesbury Avenue.

John’s sole Sydney jockeys’ premiership was during the 1987-88 season when, with 86 wins, defeated Jim Cassidy (65 wins).

John was also runner-up on three occasions: 1989-90 with 67 wins to Mick Dittman (75), 1986-87 with 85½ wins to Malcolm Johnston (92½) and in 1982-83 with 52 wins to Ron Quinton (90).

He retired in 2000 having ridden against the likes of Ron Quinton, Darren Beadman, Malcolm Johnston, Jim Cassidy, Wayne Harris and Kevin Moses.

John’s 25-year-old son, Taylor, has followed in his father’s footsteps and during 2013-16, rode 122 winners in New South Wales.

Taylor’s biggest win was aboard Zephyron in the (Listed) Lord Mayor’s Cup at Rosehill Gardens. He is currently riding in Queensland.

John Marshall is survived by wife Debbie and his greater family.

NOTE: Jockeys will be asked to wear black armbands for the running of Boxing Day’s feature race at Royal Randwick, the Group 3 $160,000 Summer Cup, as a mark of respect. Australian Turf Club will also honour John Marshall with a race at Royal Randwick this Saturday.