When the Ontario Sires Stakes Program was introduced back in 1974 ,it infused a "breath of life" into Canadian Harness Racing that is still with us today . The program which offered substantial purses and season long competition for two and three year olds, soon created a ripple effect that began to affect the entire sport and in particular the Breeding end .

 

By unofficial count (that means me counting ?) in 2011 the O.S.S. program listed a total of 117 Sires registered in the program . That total is further broken down by Gait with 61 listed as "Pacing" Sires and 56 as "Trotting" Sires .It seems uncanny that the "split" would be that close .

 

I have shown a list of Registered Sires from 1986 in hopes that readers may enjoy looking over the list and seeing some familiar names and "faces" . At that time the unofficial count was a Grand Total of 346  as they were not yet separated by Gait .

Veteran horseman William "Bill" James passed away on January 21,2012 at University Hospital in his native London Ontario ;he was 87 years old .His passing marks the end of his generation in a noted racing family that traces its beginning back many decades . Bill and a number of his brothers followed  their father Tom James' interest in harness racing .Perhaps best known in the family was Bill's older brother Lew James, who raced horses for many years and later served in a number of executive capacities in various jurisdictions,most notably with the then powerful  Ontario Jockey Club . Lew was enshrined in the Hall of Fame a number of years ago in recognition of his contributions as an innovative Race Secretary .

 

Many years ago I had the pleasure of a number of visits with Bill James,at Greenwood and the old Garden City Track .He had a unique perspective on the sport's early years and in his own right was quite an authority on many past horses and horsemen drawn from his many years of involvement .His stories and accounts of bygone days were always told in a witty,entertaining and interesting way .

 

In the earlier days of racing he was a familiar figure at the many one day race meetings held at various spots throughout Southwestern Ontario .At one time he campaigned a horse named Bert Lee Can . He also raced at the once popular Toronto tracks, Dufferin Park and Thorncliffe . When night racing came to London in 1961, he was a participant and successfully raced a trotter named Heather Boy owned by fellow Londoners Ray and Lloyd Elgie .Undoubtedly one of his best memories was being involved with the training and racing of one of the dominant horses of the 1950's era, The Diplomat owned by Alex Parsons also of London .

 

When I visited with Bill it was in the mid 1960's and by that time he had curtailed his driving activities . I believe he sustained a serious injury while racing at Strathroy, and following his recovery devoted most of his activities to training and developing younger horses. At this time he was perhaps a bit ahead of the later trend in that he trained a small but select stable of horses and employed the best young drivers of the day which at that time included Allan Waddell,Ronnie Feagan and Wm. Wellwood to name a few .

 

There is always sadness when someone passes, but also we are left with a little "piece" of their lives they shared with others .I offer my condolences to remaining family members especially Bill's wife "Peggy" ,his daughter and son in law and Sharon and Ed .
-

---

-

Today the successful bidder at a Yearling Sale would not likely make the headlines even if they shelled out $71,000 to make the purchase of a single colt,gelding or filly . However back in 1964, just over 47 years ago, the entire proceeds of the annual C.S.H.S .yearling sale brought just under that figure .And that was for ALL  61 Head !!!! .Times do change .....

 

About this time, the Armbro offerings were beginning to show up prominently .Still ,many of the yearlings offered were from smaller and even one broodmare operations .

 

I have posted the results of the 1964 Canadian Standardbred Horse Society Sale which took place at the Woodbine Sales Arena September 21,1964 .This summary appeared in the Harness Horse magazine following the sale and I thank Don Daniels for sending it to me .

 

While not all "sale toppers" go on to a successful career on the track ,this one DID !!

 

 

Armbro Ginny (filly by Thorpe Hanover) - Sold to Robert Park Hanover Ont. $2500

 

The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of February 2012 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .

 

1. - Woodstock Awards Night  - 1986

2. - Racing In The Dead of Winter - Part I

3. - Racing In The Dead of Winter - Part II

4. - Les Ehrlick Remembered

5. - The Melbourne Fair

6. - Stan Williams

7. - Charlie Lawson

 

 

A good turnout was on hand to celebrate the 22nd annual Woodstock Annual Awards Night accompanied by a dinner dance on the evening of Saturday March 1,1985 .

 

The following members were on hand representing the local Woodstock & District Trotting Association Executive and other working committees :

 Jack Thompson,Frank Bisbee,Jim Caddey,Don Lamb,Ross Masters,Steve Richards,Cal Taylor,Jerry Van Boekel,George Dukes,Art Robinson,Joe Moyer,Floyd Belore,Al Marshall,Al Bond,John Farley,Martin Van Boekel,Bev Wallace,Laurence Sullivan,Leroy Scott,Les Kennedy,Andy Anderson,Ace Tuttle,Ken Monk,Ron Bartlett,Bill Robblee and Rod Robblee .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

 

If someone wanted to ship a horse 50 years ago by commercial carrier ,it was quite likely that Ehrlick Transport in Toronto would get the call .Les Ehrlick the owner was involved with the sport in a variety of ways .In addition to running his very active Transport service he also operated a  large tack business .He was also a great promoter of the sport and often sponsored or donated horse related items to worthy projects and Stake Races .Coolers bearing the" EHRLICK TRANSPORT " letters were commonplace .

 

 Additionally he was a part of the original OHHA team put in place in 1962 to organize the horsemen in their dealings with other entities.He served as President of the organization for over 12 years ,during which time he saw many advancements and improvements thanks in part to his efforts and those who worked with him .

---

 

I know it's a long time until the traditional Fall Fair time of year ,but I recently came upon a couple of vintage photos and some interesting data from an old Ontario Fair that is now well over 100 years old .The Fair is The Melbourne Fair, held at this little Middlesex County Town, located just west of London Ontario .

 

 

Their history contains a lot of names and happenings that have added to the sport of harness racing beyond the Fair, but that is where a lot of it began .The names of McGugan,Hardy,Fletcher,Hathaway,Graham and Peters are but a few who trace their roots to this historic Fair ,and are mentioned in past accounts .The last person to organize the race program at the annual Fair was Vern Hathaway ,a local horseman who still resides just outside of Melbourne .

 

A major step was taken by the Fair Board in 1931 when the decision was made to join the "Canadian National Racing Association" which at the time was one of the three governing and regulating bodies in Canadian harness racing .It meant that the Fair organizers wanted to have "first class" racing ,held under proper guidelines and also where the results and times would be properly recorded .

 

In the 1930's races were regularly staged as part of the fair and attracted some of the best racing stock available at the time .Races of 3 heats each for a purse of $100 was the annual offering. One notable example was the participation of Clint Hodgins of Clandeboye Ont. and his horse Miss Belwins Boy who raced at Melbourne . He later went on to national prominence and was eventually elected to many honours including both major Hall of Fame's inductees .

 

 The Swift's Stake Races

 

At one time, Swift & Company, a firm known world wide for its involvement in food and agriculture ventures, sponsored  races at Melbourne,for both trotters and pacers ,each with their own division . One interesting race was held there in 1954 and drew some of the top two year old pacers racing that season . On race day a total of 8 entrants contested the Pacing race which carried a sizable purse of nearly $1200 . The powerful entry of two youngsters owned by the well known and highly successful Wm. H. Herbert Stable of London were heavily favoured to take home all the "marbles" . The horses were Sammy Herbert and Fay Herbert ,both offspring of the Herbert sire Alpha Hal . All eyes and all pre race "chatter" involved only these two speedsters ,leaving little hope for the other entrants .

 

The race's outcome however was a different story . A young up and coming horseman named Fred Goudreau from Wallaceburg Ont. was there with his homebred filly Floating Rhythm . At day's end, the victory went to the brown filly driven to victory by Bud Gibson ,an event that helped to launch a then young "Smiling Freddy" Goudreau's career in harness racing ,and he was of course followed by his son Shelley .Floating Rhythm won both heats that day and a photo of the finish of the race appeared in the London Free Press .She was later sold and went on to a very successful racing career in the U.S. and Canada owned by Cecil Reid of West Lorne Ont..

 

The Hon. Earl Rowe, a noted political figure in Provincial politics who also raced many fine trotters in his career ,often appeared at the Melbourne oval and took home his fair share of the "spoils" especially during the era of the Swifts Stakes .

 

Certainly all of the area drivers ,many of whom raced at London, such as Marshall Moore,"Jiggs" McFadden,Jack Campbell,Stan Williams ,Stu Simpson,Lyle & Ken Bogart,Earl Hyatt and many more, were familiar competitors over the Melbourne track at various times through the years .Local horseman John Fraleigh is also a long time participant in the sport .

 

 

 

In 1894, horse racing was banned from the fairs however one way to get around this order was to limit the entries to the local area and these were called “Farmers Trots” or “Trials of Speed” under the assumption it was just local farmers entering their carriage horses. The ban was eventually lifted and regulations set in place which became the Canadian Trotting Association many years later .

The following communities held fairs in 1909 when the Melbourne Fair began :

Alvinston, October 5,6
Brigden, October 5
Delaware, October 20
Dorchester, October 6
Glencoe, September 28,29
Ilderton, September 24
Lambeth, October 5
London September 10-18
Mt. Brydges, October 7
Muncey, October 7,8,
Parkhill, October 4,5
Shedden, September 29
Strathroy, September 20-22
Wallacetown, September 30-Oct. 1
Watford, October 7,8

By 1925 there were three ladies on the baking committee, two being Jesse Alexander and Sadie Johnson. The domestic committee was also ladies. The prize list had expanded to include somewhat of a school fair. One entry was a story on the Advantage of Melbourne’s new highway. Hot meals were served by the ladies. For 35 cents you could have a chicken dinner in the continuation school. Also noteworthy it cost 1 cent to mail the fair book. There were many interesting categories to enter in and excellent prizes. Some examples are:
1. Best cold lunch prepared by a farmer’s wife or daughter - prize 5 lb. Tea by Elliott & Mars.
2. Best roast chicken, bread, biscuits, cake and pie received a kitchen table and 6 chairs - you had to live within 5 miles of Melbourne.( Now that was a worthwhile prize!)
3. All bread categories received a sack of flour.
4. Best roast goose and the donor received the goose and the prize was a permanent oil wave and an 8 by 10 photo.

The following one I love ...
In 1930, the mother of the largest family on the grounds received a new pair of shoes - value $5.00.

 

 Butter making must have had a lot of entries - there were 10 classes for 5 lb.. Crocks of butter, the donor of the prize money received the butter. The ladies now had a canning section where you could show such things as canned corn, beans, peas, chicken and fruit.
In 1941 there was a section for flowers - the exhibits being dahlias, zinnias and house plants. Also you could knit army socks and an army scarf for showing.
1944 marked the last year that butter was shown. You could show pillow cases made from flour sacks and a pair of kitchen curtains, new 1944 style. I’d like to know what that style was ??.
By 1950 there weren’t as many quilt classes but more baking and sewing classes. Sewing had 61 classes to exhibit in.
The home crafts were displayed in the Scout Hall - cheese cloth was tacked to the wall to keep the quilts and sewing displays clean. A tent was placed just outside the Scout Hall and that is where the baking was shown. In 1961 the ladies started to send out an advanced fair list with hopes of increasing entries. To mark the centennial year the ladies baked a fruit cake and decorated it in the centennial theme and sold tickets on it. In 1969 the ladies started to plan to add a kitchen onto the new building. The main fund raiser was selling tickets on a quilt made by Florence Graff - this was done for 9 years. Other fund raisers were selling meals and pie on fair day and bake sales. Selling food on fair day without a kitchen was done outside the fair building with a tarp overhead. By 1974 the ladies finally realized the dream of a kitchen. Since then we have continued to serve the community by offering a good hot meal on fair day and we cater to weddings and other banquets. In 1984 we moved our home craft exhibits from the Scout Hall into the fair board building. The prize lists are always changing to keep up with the interests of the community people. Entries requiring less time seem to be popular like photography.

Another interesting item showed that at one time the person who was responsible for the upkeep of the grounds received "free pasture and the hay crop " as his payment for services rendered .That was Malcolm McGugan .

This information was submitted by Evelyn Turnbull as part of the Fair Archives .

---

 

 

To my way of thinking the best stories in harness racing are not always the "Big Stories" but more often the little tales that tend to capture our fascination and remain in our memories forever . The sport's past is laced with great human interest stories about a lot of so called "bit players" who have played their part in some special way ;each just a little different than any other .

 

In days gone by it was quite unusual ,believe it or not, for a person to be a good driver and not train their own string of horses . It did happen, but not all that often . One notable exception was the case of Orangeville native Charlie Lawson . Born into a racing family and setting, he was the son of a noted yesteryear horseman Wm. "Billy" Lawson of Orangeville, who at one time worked as a trainer for the legendary local veterinarian and life long horse fancier Dr. W.H. Riddell . At a very young age  Charlie took up his fascination with racing and began driving at many of the local Fairs and one day race meetings along with his Dad and brother Borden .

 

As an adult he apparently reasoned that earning a living working solely as a horseman was not his path and accepted a job with the D.H.O. ,the letters which stood for Department Highways Ontario . (I was asked as a small child to guess what those letters that appeared on snow fences across the country meant ? and was told the answer was "Don't Hop Over" ! )

 

For many years, Charlie combined a life of driving a large road grader in the warmer months and during the winter storms a snow plow, with his favourite pastime . He drove horses by day (and sometimes during the evening before his shift began) and plowed or graded at night . His rather unusual combination as an occupation was often mentioned in harness racing summaries as many journalists were aware of his pattern. It indeed was unique .While Charlie did a lot of  driving near his home area of Barrie and Orangeville ,he was no stranger to most tracks throughout Ontario .He certainly knew all of the small Town tracks in Central Ontario and could have probably made his way around them with his eyes closed !

 

When the O.S.S. program was introduced in 1974, it came along at an opportune time for the then 40 year old Lawson . He had already displayed his talents at handling young horses and as the stakes program became popular, Charlie soon established himself as a "go to guy" and was called upon to drive more and more .

 

By 1983 ,the year Charlie turned 50, he was officially credited with  2000 career victories .That is quite an accomplishment given his "part time" status through so many years of his involvement . In 1983 the outstanding two year old pacing sensation Shane's Mint  was the second top money winning OSS performer in his category .He led all freshman pacing colts with total season's earnings of $117,329 .The son of Alert Bret out of Key To Mint by Goodnuff was bred by Carl Medwid and owned and trained by John Medwid of Shelburne Ontario . His driver was Charlie Lawson who drove him to a season's best of 1:58.4 .

 

One of Lawson's earlier accomplishments that drew a more national awareness in the sport came about when he was called upon to handle the driving duties behind a horse who was then considered one of the tops in the sport . Jambo Dancer was at his peak during the early years of The Labatts Pace ,the signature race held annually at London's WFR beginning in 1972 .This race is still staged, but is now The Molson's Pace .....another era another beer .....

 

In 1976 Jambo Dancer won his first of three straight Labatt's Cup races with Charlie in the bike for trainer Kent Baker in 2:01.4 taking home the lion's share of the $16,000 purse . One year later the pair scored again, this time in 2:01.1 for a purse of $20,000 ,quite a sum in those days . The following year Jambo Dancer became the only three time winner of The Labatts Pace but was driven that year by Ronnie Feagan for owner John Grant of Hornby  .

 

Wherever Charlie Lawson performed he was well respected and was always regarded as never out of any race .In a career that spanned many decades he drove the winners of over 2300 races .He was equally at home behind a horse of either gait .I can recall the first time I saw him drive and it was something I have not forgotten ,occurring at the Elmira Fair in the fall of 1967 . Charlie was driving a trotter in a field of pacers ,a sight not now often seen .If memory serves me correctly he won the race .

 

When Charlie Lawson passed away on May 25,2010 at the age of 77, the sport of harness racing lost a dear friend and a long time colourful performer . He was an honest hard working man who always loved what he was doing and also enjoyed being around the many friends and fellow horsemen and horsewomen he had toiled with over those many years . Left to mourn his passing were his wife Mary and children Kim,Sandra,Tanya and Bill as well as 6 grandchildren and 4 sisters .

 

Charlie will always be recalled as one of "The Good Guys" of  our sport  ......

 

The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of March 2012 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .

 

 1.  - Western Fair District Awards Night 2012

 2. - 1984 - Keith Waples in Florida

 3. - Flashback to 1956 Haughton Stable

 4. - For The Love of a Grey Horse

 5. - New resident Arrives at Seelster Farms - 1983

 6 .- Virden Manitoba 1954

 7. - 1950's Recollections

 8. - Tragedy Visits Batavia

 9. - McIntosh Feeds 40 Years Ago

10. - The Shoes of A Horseperson

 

On the evening of Saturday February 25th, the folks at Western Fair District honored all award winners for the 2011 season at their annual dinner and dance get together hosted by Greg Blanchard . To everyone I extend my best wishes on a job well done and applaud them for their hard work, dedication and interest in our sport .The majority of these folks have been involved for many years ;some several decades .

 

Among the honorees were a couple of friends of mine, Jim and Betty Ellis of Essex Ontario .They were honored as the owners and trainer of the "Older Pacing Horse or Gelding"  for 2011, Shadywood Baron . This now 9 year old son of Rambaran out of Taylor Kate ,was raised by the Ellis family and has been their pride and joy throughout his career, ever since his foaling at their farm in rural Essex County . He was broke and brought to the races by Jim who gratefully acknowledges the assistance and guidance of a couple of veteran horsemen Richard Carroll and Rod Duford , long time friends who assisted in his early training .Jim trains at the Leamington Fairgrounds and on race days is assisted by wife Betty and two of his granddaughters .

 

In order to race on a regular schedule "Buddy" as he is affectionately known, has toured most of the major ovals in Southwestern Ontario . He has raced at Dresden,Flamboro,Georgian Downs,Grand River,London,Mohawk,Sarnia,Windsor,Woodbine and Woodstock .

 

Shadywood Baron is an interesting story in the modern era of harness racing where many competitors are a part of a large multi faceted stable .Others are high priced yearlings with regal pedigrees ;he is neither. This horse now in his 7th season of competition is the only horse the Ellis's have started during this entire time which in itself is an amazing statistic .He recently passed the $300,000 plateau in career earnings and in the process has recorded 19 of his lifetime victories over the London half mile oval . Although he has been handled by a number of drivers including Jason Brewer,Alex Lilley,Jack Moiseyev,Roger Mayotte,Scott Coulter,Dave Wall and others, his main driver throughout his career has been the young up and coming reinsman Alfie Carroll . Also in line for credit on his successes, are veterinarian Dr. Bernie Ferguson and blacksmith Doug Folkins who are long time "team" members,helping to keep this fine horse in top form  .

 

Presentation of the award was handled by Dr. Robert Boyce DVM of London .

 

All the best down the road to Jim and Betty ............

 

Your comments on this and all my stories are welcomed at oldrecollections@gmail.com

---

--

 

 

Bottom - Billy Haughton is shown in a training mile .(Both photos courtesy Roosevelt Rcwy. H of F )

One of the largest and most successful stables in all of harness racing is currently in its winter quarters at Ben White Raceway in Orlando Florida .The huge stable of Wm. R. "Billy" Haughton, has 100 horses on the go daily in preparation for the upcoming racing campaign .The first meeting of the season will begin at Roosevelt Raceway on Long Island New York on April 2nd . Prior to the trip North, a number of matinée cards will be staged .These afternoon programs are for the enjoyment of the visitors as well as developing horses and carry no purses .

 

Although much of the training is done by his staff which includes several second trainers,Haughton is involved on a day to day basis . Much of his time is consumed with talking with his owners and also greeting the throng of visitors who annually make their way down to the Sunshine State .

 

When the work at the Track is done , a number of Haughton caretakers play on a basketball team organized by Billy himself who is the coach .The games are played at a High School facility just down the street from the Raceway .The team is anchored around a young fellow named Dick Vaughn, who at 6' 4" makes a natural centre around which the team is organized .Dick is best known as the caretaker of the outstanding trotter Charming Barbara .

 

 Among the Haughton staff is Canadian Peter Lutman, the son of well known horseman Vic Lutman .

 

[My thanks to Bill McDonnell for assistance on this piece .]

---

--

 

 

There seems to be something very special about the sight of a grey horse ;whatever it is I think nearly everyone seems to LOVE them .I've also heard that even another horse ( a non grey)  likes a grey .In the old days when teams of horse were plentiful, it was always supposedly easier to create a new team by adding a grey horse . The rationale was that because the other horse could see the grey better than a darker horse, they were much easier to accept . Somebody must have been talking to a horse ??

 

Harness racing has certainly had its share of grey horses ,although by sheer numbers I would doubt that they make up even a single percentage point of the total . That is an absolute pure GUESS .

 

As a point of clarification my research concludes that either spelling GREY or GRAY is acceptable in our culture .Also there is a school of thought that a grey or white horse is a symbol of Good Luck .....They are also favored by female racing fans .

 

I have assembled a list of a few horses that I recall from memory alone .Some I have seen, others are just from hearing their names .This list is completely at random and is not intended to include or exclude any horse ;it is just a few I came up with .Also it may contain some horses who are technically "Roan" by registration .If anyone in the reading audience wants to add to the list please let me know your selection .

 

Ruff Me Up

Whoever said "The Old Gray Mare ain't what she used to be ....better check again !!

 

  Carol Knight - (I drove this mare for Fred Beacham)
   & her foals- Silver Pebbles ,Silver Wave
                      I owned and drove a couple of Roans, too - Scottish Butler & R U Stormy

 

Your comments on this and all my stories are welcomed at oldrecollections@gmail.com
--

---

The small town of Lucan Ont. located on Highway 4 just about 25 km. north of London certainly knows how to welcome a new resident .

 

On the evening of November 6,1983 a crowd of over 500 enthusiastic racing fans,local residents and a few people probably just looking for a party, assembled at the Lucan Community Centre . They were there to welcome the area's newest resident ,an equine one at that, by the name of Lon Todd Hanover . The former standardbred pacer and now up and coming sire was moving into the area to take up residence at The Seelster Farms stables ,known for decades as the home of world champion trotters and pacers  .

 

The handsome son of Albatross out of the mare Suave Almahurst even made a guest appearance during the evening ,and mingled with the partying guests .Entertainment for the gala event included a bountiful buffet and musical offerings throughout the evening . Also attending was Lon Frocione of Syracuse N.Y. who owned Lon Todd Hanover during his racing career . Racing out of the John Simpson Jr. stable the horse had a phenomenal track career ,amassing a bankroll of over $665,000 . Mr. Frocione operates his racing interests under the name of Deli-Boy Standardbreds .

 

Several video monitors continuously displayed highlights of the horse's career which saw him take a lifetime mark of 1:54 as a four year old .Other crowning achievements included a 2 year old record of 1:59.4 ,a victory in the American National as a three year old and a second place finish in the 2 Y.O. Woodrow Wilson final ,beat a scant nose by McKinzie Almahurst .

 

Lon Todd Hanover will stand at The Seelster Farm for a fee of $ 3,500 and is now owned jointly by Frocione and Seelster Stud .Other stallions currently on the Seelster Roster include Worthy Bowl,Tarport Count and Armbro Splurge .

 

Your comments on this and all my stories are welcomed at oldrecollections@gmail.com

---

"Recollections" is pleased to welcome another new sponsor "Mardon Stables" of Loretto Ont. .

 

 

My thanks to Marvin Chantler, proprietor of Mardon Stables and to all who have helped in this endeavor .Sponsors names are listed at the left side of the Welcome Page .

 

A few days ago new sponsors Brian and Gay Webster also joined the list .

 

 

If anyone is interested in becoming a sponsor, your participation is most welcomed .

---

---

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Canada's representative Philip Frost from the Maplewood Stable finished 7th in the 8 horse field

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There's an old time worn saying that "An Army fights on its stomach" . An obvious reference to the need for proper nutrition to support strength,endurance and perseverance . While he may not have adopted this as a business slogan, Wheatley Ont. horseman and entrepreneur Jack McIntosh certainly embraced the principle to the fullest.At the time of his first entrance into the business of harness racing ,he knew that it would be a wise policy to have other sources of income as racing horses for a living at that time was still well off in the future , a place where few of us have the luxury to look .

 

Mr. McIntosh was born and raised on a Kent County farm in the "horse" era, and knew first hand how important it is for a properly performing horse to be well fed and well cared for . This applies whether that 4 legged steed is pulling a plow or scooting around a Racetrack .This undoubtedly led to his pursuance of getting into the feed business and the formation of his Company called "Custom Blend Feeds".

 

In the beginning he consulted with a noted Ohio based animal nutritionist named Dr. Davidson on how his products should be formulated . In partnership with his brother Donald McIntosh the business began in 1958 with two main animal groups in mind .While Jack's interest centered on horse feed ,Don concentrated on cattle formulas and the actual mill was set up on Don's farm .At one time the firm supplied product to some of the Province's largest racing operations including The Herbert Stable of London and also Jack Kopas of Ilderton Ont. .Key Ones Uno ,a Kopas Stable standout and winner of the first ever Labatt's Pace at London's WFR in 1972 ,was "fueled" by Custom Blend Feeds .

 

The business went through a number of changes and transformations over the years which saw it change to J & R(John & Robert) , a Company that still operates under the direction of Don's son John .

 

An ad that accompanies this piece showed where you could purchase Custom Blend feed 40 years ago .

 

---

 

The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of April 2012 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .

 

1. - Racing Oddity at Dufferin Park - 1945

2. - 50 Years Go - Racing Season Starts

3. - Easter Greetings

4. - A piece of P.E.I History

5. - Flashback to 1984

6. - Mrs Moore passes at 93

7. - Striking Sun from 1984

8. - Record Payoff at Thorncliffe Park

9. - Frank Daniels Night -1967

10. - Remembering the Three Rivers Track

11. - Welcome Back Steve Condren

 

Racing fans in attendance here today were witness to a rather unusual sight for modern day harness racing . In the opening race, 8 horses faced the starter for a purse of $200 for the two heat affair . So far nothing too unusual .

 

The entrants were 4 Teams of horses with the conditions allowing either pacers or trotters . The 2 heat results are listed below  :

 

Diana Lee & Patricia Volo ...................1  1

Joseph Guy & Princess Lee ................2  2

Jean Henley & Widow Evans................3  4

Volo Worthy & Volette Worthy .............4  3

 

Times - 1:10 1/2 ; 1:09

 

Winning Owner - Dr. E.E. Foster Galt Ontario a very prominent participant of this era .

 

On the same card, the Free For All event for $400 was won by Black Prince owned by A.V. Tinney of Lindsay Ont. The first heat was contested at 9/16 mile in  1:11 1/2 .

The second heat at 1 mile was clocked  in 2:15 1/2 and the third heat at 1 1/16 mile went  in 2:25 .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

EASTER..........what a great time of year, a special time when things come to life again after a long hard winter (which thankfully we didn't have this year in most areas) . While I have always been puzzled as to why it moves around each year, it seems to invariably signal the beginning of a new "growing" season , a rebirth of sorts  .While it is a religious holiday in origin, it goes much further .One of the great traditions of Easter used to always include a great display of "Bonnets" that were on display as people attended Church on Easter morning .

 

Growing up I recall Easter being a special time in the year, as we had a week plus of holiday time from school. There was no such thing as "Spring Break", it was just plain old "Easter Holidays" and occurred whenever Easter did, beginning with Good Friday . While today's children may associate this time with travel or special organized activities, I remember things differently .

 

 My father operated a sawmill and I accompanied him to the mill at each and every opportunity . From about age four onward, I loved to be at the Mill and to hear the "Whine" of the saw as it whizzed through those gigantic logs . I never tired of watching the huge work horses draw the logs to the cutting platform where they were "sliced" into timbers and planks .I watched and learned how business was done,how respect and honor among people was the norm.The sights,the sounds and even the smells from those days have remained forever .

 

The men who worked there were special people ,much like a part of our extended family . I loved them all .They treated me in a kind and caring way ,they made you feel special .

 

Harness racing has close ties to Easter as well . Perhaps because of its proximity to the foaling season ,many horses have been named with "Easter" in their names .Just at random I checked the list of horses who made at least one start in 1962 . No fewer than 28 horses had a registered name that began with "Easter" . They were many and varied ...here are a few ...

 

+ many more ....

 

Mrs. Isabel Moore late of Sarnia Ont. passed away on Thursday April 12,2012 at St. Joseph's Hospice in Sarnia .She was the widow of the late Marshall Moore (1996), a once well known Ontario based horseman who raced horses for many years in Ontario , Quebec and Michigan dating back to the 1930's. Despite her advanced years, she continued to live an active and meaningful life until near the end . As recently as last May (May 17/11) she was among the honored guests at the gala event held at London's Western Fair Raceway to celebrate the Track's 50th Anniversary of night racing .Marshall was one of the pioneering drivers who helped to make the London venture a success .

 

I had the opportunity to visit with her on a few occasions and she was a very kind and gracious lady,reminiscent of the "Old School"  .Also I shall be forever grateful to Marshall  who helped me immensely with identifying old pictures and supplying countless memories and accounts of the "old days" of racing .It is interesting to note that the future Mrs. Moore was born in "Moore" Township .

 

Mrs. Moore is survived by two daughters Mary Moore and Marsha & Randy Simoneaux and a son William & Chris Moore ,five grandchildren,and one sister as well as a very large extended family .I extend my condolences to the family .

 

Both Kawartha Downs and Kingston Park Raceway have issued their schedule of special events for the upcoming 1984 season . Each of these two  tracks have an extensive season planned for O.S.S. competition and added money events, as well as Memorial Races to honour past participants who hailed from each locale .

 

The first "Miracle Mile" of the season was hung out by Smokin Gus when he "smoked" home in 1:58.4 for owners Eleanor & Ted Wilson of Whitby ,Tom Wilson of Ashland Ohio and August Lehman of Oshawa .Driver Ted Wilson opened up a 7 length lead and held it to win his third in twelve starts .A crowd of 1,414 fans were on hand this Saturday evening .

 

Popular Port Perry horseman Nelson Cochrane had his baseball team "The Cochrane Trotters" Bantam House League Champions on hand at the track as a special treat . They joined in the trackside cooler presentation after Mingo Joe trotted home a winner for owner trainer -driver John Sharp of Bowmanville .

 

Driver Challenge night is upcoming with 4 local teamsters Reg Gassien,Tony Kerwood,Mark Johnson and Allan Nicholls taking on the "Mohawk" Team of Ron Waples,Doug Brown,Steve Condren and Dave Wall . Amongst the 8 drivers they have garnered nearly 12,000 lifetime wins and earnings of nearly $50 - million .( Thanks to Grant C. Wade Kawartha publicist )

 

About the hottest commodity on the current Ontario Jockey Club circuit is a horse called Striking Sun .The now 5 year old son of Strike Out out of the Race Time mare Florida Maid, has been turning back all foes in the recent Saturday Invitational Paces . From a distance, his picture might even mislead one into thinking he is a trotter as he wears no hobbles, and for that matter virtually no extra "leg" equipment at all .

 

Striking Sun races out of the John Hayes Stable Ltd. with John Jr. doing all of the driving .His owner is Janet M. Burns of King Ont. Highly successful as a two and three year old with earnings of over $220,000,this fine young horse now has a lifetime bankroll approaching $ 265,000 and is adding to it weekly . His latest triumph came on March 31 in a FFA Handicap event for a purse of $14,000 which saw him pace in 1:57.2 defeating Shaw Lobell and Maple Grove Glen,winning in fairly easy fashion  .

 

Last Fall, on September 27th, Striking Sun established his lifetime speed record in a Time Trial at Lexington . With trainer Dr. John Hayes in the sulky the pair toured the Red Mile in 1:54.4 with a first half in :57.1 and a final quarter in :29.2 . Following a three month absence from racing he qualified in late December before embarking on this season's campaign . To date from 11 starts he has 4 wins and close to $42,000 banked .A number of past performance charts from last season show the now retired Cam Fella as the winner of several races in which Striking Sun was an entrant . While the racing public may miss Cam Fella ,those who had to follow him may feel differently . 

 

So what lies ahead this season for this 5 year old ??

 

On Saturday April 28 he will sell at the C.S.H.S. Spring Mixed Sale held at The Woodbine Sales Pavilion .He is being billed as the Highlight of the sale and is scheduled to parade into the sales ring in "Prime Time" at approx. 3:00 p.m. on sale day . Race videos as well as a fertility test are available for interested parties .With an approximate premium of 25% on the U.S. Dollar it is possible that a prospective buyer may emerge from acrosss the border .

 

How did the sale go ? The results will be covered in an upcoming edition of Recollections .

 

Quite an important chapter of Canadian Harness Racing history was recorded back in the early 1950's when a series of four consecutive years of summer racing were held at the historic Thorncliffe Park Track in suburban Toronto from 1950 thru 1953 .For many racing fans it was their first glance at many new things such as the mobile starting gate and perhaps above all Parimutuel Wagering . The possibility of a huge payout for a $2.00 wager was as popular then as it remains today .

 

The following write up undoubtedly appeared in a number of newspapers across the land when it happened ; I copied it from The Montreal Gazette .

 

Toronto July 31,1951 (CP) - A Canadian record for a pari-mutuel payoff on harness racing was claimed today at Thorncliffe Park Raceway when Exeter Lady won the 5th race and paid $283.60 for a $2 win Ticket .

 

Exeter Lady owned by Jack Morrissey of Crediton Ont. also paid $ 68.50 to place and $9.95 to show .Piloted by Lloyd Turvey, she was favored by good racing luck . She managed to get to the front when the odds-on choice Judge Miller stumbled entering the stretch on the first round and broke pace badly . Judge Miller went pacing again but he had lost so much ground that he finished only third to Exeter Lady and Ann Pointer . (end of CP article)

 

The newspaper account did not describe the race, but it was the feature event of the afternoon and attracted a huge field of 11 starters vying for a purse of $750 with two heats being raced . In the opener, Judge Miller was the winner driven by Keith Waples for owner Stan Love of Milton Ont. with Exeter Lady finishing well back in 8th position .This may have led to her being overlooked in the betting choices although she had just won a race at this same Track earlier in the month .

 

While nearly 61 years have passed since this event, it is amazing that many of the participants back then are still represented in the sport today .The Morrissey name is among the sport's oldest and of course Keith Waples one of the winning drivers that day is still very much with us .

 

While "in its day" this would have been considered a gigantic payout ,the introduction of so called "exotics" in wagering have made the possibility of "boxcar" figures appearing on the Tote Board a regular occurrence .

 

Note about photo - This photo was personally given to me by the late Michael Burns, a man who dedicated a lifetime to taking great horse pictures .His photography is an integral part of our sport's past and many horse families have his signature works in their family archives .

 

Back in the fall of 1967 a very special night was held at the Truro N.S. track to honor one of their finest . Frank Daniels who had been recently elected as a local U.S.T.A  Director representing the Maritimes was in the spotlight along with his extended family . A long time devotee of the sport as an owner ,trainer and driver he had already recorded in excess of 1000 driving victories on Canadian tracks . To this day, several members of the Daniels family continue to be involved long after the senior Daniel's passing .

---