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The racing industry is mourning the passing of former handicapper Mauri Aho, who passed away from motor neuron disease on November 8.

After moving to Sydney from his native Finland, Mauri began his working life at the company Sunbeam before gaining employment at the Sydney Turf Club’s offices.

Returning to Finland to complete compulsory National Service, he returned to Sydney with his new wife Rita and began work with the Australian Jockey Club in 1980 as junior assistant to the handicappers. He combined that with the role of early morning nominations clerk at Warwick Farm trackwork, and raceday working in the judge's box.

Mauri was appointed Assistant Handicapper at the AJC in January 1981 when Ken Goodwin retired and Colin Nickson became Chief Handicapper. He remained the assistant until June 1987 before being appointed Chief Handicapper on Colin’s departure to Singapore.

Mauri held that position until regulatory roles were transferred to the NSW Thoroughbred Racing Board (now Racing NSW) in July 1997 and was the inaugural Chief Handicapper for that body. He remained as Chief Handicapper until October 1997.

Mauri was a larger than life character and many in the racing industry were marvelled by his bird calls. He opted for a 'sea change' in the late 1990s, moving to Port Macquarie where he lived until his passing - he was 61. Mauri is survived by his wife Rita and daughter Elina.

A funeral service will be held at Innes Gardens Memorial Park, Phillip Charlie Drive, Port Macquarie on Monday, 17 November 2014 commencing at 3pm.