Allen Murray, who with his wife, Audrey, operated Murmur and Berkley farms in Darlington, Md., died Aug. 13 at age 80.
Among the top horses that stood at Murmur Farm was Our Emblem, whose relocation to Maryland from Claiborne Farm coincided with the success of Kentucky Derby (gr. I)winner War Emblem and Arkansas Derby (gr. II) winner Private Emblem in 2002. Our Emblem was subsequently sold to Taylor Made/WinStar Venture and then sold to stand at stud in Brazil.
Murray, who held a degree in electrical engineering and worked at the Aberdeen Proving Ground for 38 years before retiring in 1989, began his interest in racing at the former Havre de Grace racetrack at an early age.
According to the Baltimore Sun, the Murrays began their horse breeding operation in 1959 with the acquisition of their first broodmare and the stable grew to more than 100 horses.
Among the top horses bred by Murray were multiple stakes winners Regal Solo, Big Ego, Celtic Innis, and Saudi Brass.
In addition to his wife, Murray is survived by three children, eight grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maryland Horsemen's Assistance Fund, 500 Redland Court, Suite 105, Owings Mills, MD 21117, or to the Maryland Heart Association.
