Tributes paid to Australian legend Cummings Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott led the tributes for legendary trainer Bart Cummings, who died aged 87 at his homestead in Sydney on Sunday morning. Cummings was hailed by Abbott as a "legend of the track and giant of the sport" after he famously claimed 12 victories in Australia's greatest race, the Melbourne Cup. Abbott said in a statement: "Australia has lost a sporting giant and a racing legend. Few people have dominated a sport like Bart Cummings did. He will be remembered as a truly great trainer, the winner of literally thousands of races. Race day will not be the same without him." He went on: "On behalf of all Australians, we extend our sincerest sympathies to Bart's wife of 61 years, Valmae, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren." Long-time rival Gai Waterhouse said Cummings, who was fondly known in racing as the 'Cups King', was an "icon of our country". She told The Age: "He is going to be sadly missed by his family and friends and my thoughts are with his family. "He was an icon of our country and his 12 Melbourne Cup wins is amazing. "He is an all-time great Australian trainer."
