From The Scrapbook & Jockey Club Memories
Subscribe to our NewsletterKerry Davies Passes
August 15, 2014
Condolences are extended to the family of the late Kerry Davies who passed away on July 19th which was his 70th birthday . The Davies family were among the best known in the sport .They originated in Western Canada and moved East many years ago .
I have posted a biography and photograph from the 1974 Golden Horseshoe Fact Book which contains a short narrative as it applied some 40 years ago .
Jockey Club Memories - Stan Henderson
April 11, 2014
The latest "Jockey Club Memories" entry is for Stan Henderson a non driving trainer who was a familiar figure at many Ontario tracks at one time . He is remembered for standing a horse named Archie and also was successful in many OSS events years ago . [Bio courtesy of Golden Horseshoe Fact Book 1974]
Stan Henderson in a training mile [ Milton Historic Society photo]
Jockey Club Memories - Wilf Duford
April 5, 2014
Today's "Jockey Club Memories" entry is that of the late Wilfred Duford . While Wilf left us a few years ago in 2006, the Duford name remains familiar through he and his wife Mabel's three sons Rod,Jerry and Dennis and also their granddaughter Ashley Duford. They are all still very much involved in the sport today .Additionally for many years Rod's wife Faye was an SC Field Rep. at the former Windsor oval .
Following in his father Jerry's footsteps ,Wilf began his career on the fabled Carrot River Circuit in Northern Saskatchewan way back in the 1930's. In later years he made his way to Ontario and Quebec tracks, first seasonally and then to stay . One of his early performers was a western bred horse named Rocky Senator that Wilf raced at places like Connaught Park , Rideau Carleton ,the OJC tracks and eventually Windsor . "Rocky" who first raced out west, participated in claimers until the mandatory retirement age of 14 in 1966 .His lifetime earnings of $30,000 and a record of around 2:05 was a nice accomplishment in those days .
Not mentioned in the attached bio was the Duford family's most famous horse, Claybrook Van who came along at about this time . Purchased at auction from Londoner Clayton Brock for the bargain price of $ 500, this venerable trotting gelding raced his entire lifetime for the family ,winning in excess of $ 430,000 .He was eventually enshrined in the Horseracing Hall of Fame in 1980 following a racing career that spanned the years from 1967 to 1978 . He is recalled as one of the great early Canadian bred trotters who gave hope to the small time operators of this era .
Claybrook Van was truly a "blue collar" horse ,a working man's horse to say the least . Unraced at two ,he banked just a shade over $2,500 as a three year old in a time before the advent of big earnings via the O.S.S. . In the 11 years that followed he made his weekly pay cheque the hard way .Racing in tough Invitationals, participating in a variety of Stakes for older campaigners and in between taking whatever opportunities were out there .
The story of racing families like the Dufords are an important piece of our sport's past .
[Bio courtesy of Golden Horseshoe fact Book -1974 ]
Jockey Club Memories - Harold Stead
March 25, 2014
The latest "Jockey Club Memories" entry is Harold Stead , a "young" member of the backstretch colony when the 1974 Golden Horseshoe Fact Book was assembled by publicist Wm Galvin .At the time of writing, Harold was just a mere lad of 20 !
In the years that have followed he added a lot more statistics and accomplishments .
From The Scrapbook - Leamington 1977
March 27, 2014
I recently came upon this vintage Leamington program from 1977 ...OPENING DAY almost 37 years ago !!
A few of the drivers in action that day (in alpha order)
Marty Adler,Hector Armstrong,Ken Bogart,Richard Carroll,Norm Desserault,Rod Duford,Pete Dupuis,Larry Eaid,Bryce Fenn,Chuck Fraleigh,Lyle Grineage,Bill Hamm,Norm Harrison,Wm. Holden,Earl Hyatt,Rick Kennedy,Albert List,Gordon Mairs,Dennis McFadden,Ted McFadden,Lonnie McCorkle,Geo. McKenzie,Lorne McKenzie,Doug McIntosh,Norm McKnight,Dick Mitchell,Jack Rich,Ross Roselle,Ross Siddall,Lazlo Simon,Walter Srigley,Dean Stevens,Vaughn Webster,Dale Williams .
From The Scrapbook - "High Class Plowhorse"
March 21, 2014
The latest "From The Scrapbook " picture shows the once well known and highly successful trotter FRED FROST in "retirement" . What horses do once their racing careers are over covers a wide range of activities . Fred Frost raced for many years on the OJC Circuit and was handled by Bert Madill and in later years Wm. Wellwood . I recall being in attendance at the old Garden City track and being in the winner's circle photo when Wm. Wellwood raced this horse who was then co-owned by Dr. Blackwood of Woodstock Ont.
The following caption accompanied this photo that appeared in the May 7,1980 edition of The London Free Press .
" Gord Bell of R R 3 Melbourne, is ready for the farm energy crisis with a money winning racehorse as a plowmate .Fred Frost ,his 14 year old standardbred, won $ 127,000 at the track before being retired to the garden " [LFP Photo]
From The Scrapbook - The Lindsay Fair
March 20, 2014
Following a recent post regarding Starting Gates ,today's "From The Scrapbook" picture captures a rather familiar scene from yesteryears .This undated photo was taken during the Lindsay Fair many years ago .Someone in the audience will probably recognize the vehicle and the starter .Each region had its own starters and they were important partners in putting on a good day of racing .
This old picture shows a lot beyond the start of a harness race . The band is seated and ready to play,lots of activity in the infield, a Rothman's trailer is in place ,a view of the judges stand (on wheels),a shot of the crowd watching the races and so on ........
[ Photo from Lindsay Ex Archives ]
Reader's Comments re "Lindsay Fair"
I liked your picture and comments re the Lindsay Fair. I drove many races at the Lindsay Fair. They always had a
green horse stake on the Friday and the classified races on Saturday. From the look of the sparse crowd I'd guess this was a Friday 'cause on Saturday
you'd never get a seat in the grandstand. I used to go on Friday if I had a horse in the stake and sleep over in the barn and race the older horses, like
"Quinte Lad" on Saturday. The Anglican church ran a fantastic restaurant upstairs in the Grandstand.
The homestretch of that track had a slight curve in it but was wide enough for about 8 horses but the backstretch and top turn were only about 4 horses wide!
Those trees in the back of the picture had roots growing under the track which caused some quite large bumps along the inside! There was a tunnel
under the first turn to allow cars to park in the infield. Eventually the bridge became too dangerous so it was filled in and you had to drive over the track.
Now the real fun was the top turn which also had a tunnel under it to access the pig barn outside the track and was quite a sharp turn and only 4 wide. So to
start the outside 4 horses lined up on the gait with the inside 4 trailing and when the gait reached the wide stretch the outside 4 had to move out so the
inside horses could get on the gait! Needless to say this made for some wild, wacky and wonderful starts!
Of course that top turn was known to everyone as "The Pig Pen Turn".
I raced Quinte Lad in the stake as a 3 year old and the top 4 in each elim went in the final and the rest in the consolation. I knew I had a shot in the consolation
and no chance in the final so in our elim Mickey Coliton and me were about 25 lengths behind the 3rd horse pulling our arms off to try and not finish 4th
and Mickey out pulled me! So I got nothing in the final and Mickey won the consolation!
Lindsay was a super fair to race at and always a lot of fun and good entertainment!
From Philip Stewart
Jockey Club Memories - Ray Gemmill
March 3, 2014
The latest "Jockey Club Memories" addition is that of Ray Gemmill,another in a long line of Ottawa Valley products . He has a most interesting biography but unfortunately I have been unable to find the details of his special day at the 1959 Cobden Fair in which he reportedly won 10 of 12 heats . Sometimes the results from the small fairs were not recorded and reported properly and thus are not easy to retrieve .
I did find some results from the 1960 Cobden Fair and that year Ray recorded 6 victories in two days of racing which consisted of 8 heats in total .The purse for each race is shown in brackets . On day one he won 4 heats, driving Barbara Gold ($125) to two wins and also scored two wins behind Tom C Henley ($80) . On the second day September 21, he again scored two wins behind the same mare Barbara Gold racing for a purse of $200 .
In later years ,shortly after this bio was written ,Mr. Gemmill made his way out to B.C. where I have read fairly recently that he was still active in the business he has spent a lifetime enjoying .In 1976 he etched his name in the record books by winning the first race contested at what was then called Cloverdale Raceway . His winning drive was with a horse named Guy Dominion that was owned by a group of Vancouver Canuck hockey players .
Ray is proud to be a very long time close friend of Keith Waples .
Thanks to Ray for a long and colourful career ......
Readers Comments re Ray Gemmill :
Hi Robert ,
Nice article on Ray Gemmill .It did not mention that he lived just outside Owen Sound for a while .That's likely how he ended up in B.C. .Jim Keeling from Owen Sound was the head of operations out there with Keith Waples,Tommy Burlington,Harry Lumley the retired goalie for the Maple Leafs and also a man named Doug Gillespie .They were all partners in the two racetracks out there .I went to school with Jim Keeling Jr. who was also out there but he drowned in a boating accident .
From Paul Warwick
I read with interest your piece on Ray Gemmill. a family friend for close to 50 years, a bear of a man with a heart of gold, a top horseman and master storyteller. We shared many an excursion and created some memories back in the day.
From Brian Webster
From The Scrapbook - An Old Labatt's Truck
February 13, 2014
As a one time "Up and down Hiller" ( polite name for a truck driver) and a fancier of vintage things, I have included a picture of an old restored truck today . At one time the Labatt's Brewing Co. in London were quite involved with the sponsorship of harness racing events .They were long time sponsors in the earlier years of the Ontario Sires Stakes and dating back to 1972 they were behind London's signature race " The Labatt's Pace" which was first won by Key Ones Uno owned and driven by Jack Kopas .That race was held late in the fall on October 27th, and carried a purse of $ 7500 which was considered at that time to be a sizable sum . Following Key Ones Uno home in the short 5 horse field were Canny Choice (J.Findley) 2, Hava Good (Greg Wright) 3,Springfield (Ron Feagan) 4 and Mr Peter Ray (Ray McLean) 5 . In later years this race became The Molson Pace .
The Labatts Company took great pride in the appearance of their vehicles and their drivers . As I recall they were instructed by the Company to stop along the road and offer assistance to stranded motorists, particularly when a flat tire occurred . The drivers wore nice uniforms and were trained in the basics of PR .I guess they hoped that people would repay the favour by becoming a consumer of their great brews.
The vehicle shown on this old postcard is a 1948 White WA 122 Cab over Engine model powered by a White Mustang 6 Cyl. 386 C.I.D. engine and the trailer was by Fruehauf with a single axle . This old gem was restored over a 7 year period by two brothers, Joe and Bob Scott of London .This series of trucks were known as "Streamliners" and were on Ontario roads from 1932 until 1955 .
Jockey Club Memories - Andy Avery
February 12, 2014
The latest post in the "Jockey Club memories" section is Andy Avery .I believe Andy is still active in the sport as a trainer ,racing mainly at Flamboro Downs .Andy must have had his name called first a lot of times as he has both a first and last name at the front of the alphabetic order . [Courtesy of G H C 1974 Fact Book]
Jockey Club Memories - Bill Troy
January 30, 2014
The latest post in the "Jockey Club memories" section is Bill Troy . As the attached bio shows ,Bill was a pretty good athlete in a number of sports prior to becoming a full time sulky sitter .[Courtesy of G H C 1974 Fact Book]
Bill passed away at the Grand River Hospital on May 21,2007 leaving behind his wife Josie, daughters Kathe and Tracey and a son Leo .
From The Scrapbook - Champ Herbert Wins at Dresden
January 24, 2014
Today's " From The Scrapbook " entry is a photo taken track side at Dresden Raceway on August 14, 1971 .On the far right driver Jack Herbert receives a trophy following his win with Champ Herbert,while members of the W .J. Hyatt Society and others are on the left. The occasion was the annual Three year old Supertest Pacing Stakes .The Herbert's had tremendous success in the annual colt classics and captured victories in 4 successive decades, dating back to 1944 ,the year the Supertest races started .Their operation was unique in that they bred ,raised,trained and drove all of their own horses .They were among the neatest and best organized outfits in the business and even had specially made brow bands for their horses ,colour coded to match their temperament .
Due to the large number of entries that year ,the race was contested in two divisions with each going for a purse of $ 6,148 . The winner of the second division was Prima Laddie, a Royal Rick 3 year old owned by Don and Vera Corbett and driven by Don . This meant that all of the silverware returned to nearby London as both division owners resided there . The winning times were almost identical with Champ Herbert pacing in 2:06 flat and Prima Laddie in 2:06.1 .
From The Scrapbook - Winter Racing Comes To Greenwood
January 18, 2014
The front cover of the once popular Star Weekly magazine dated March 13,1965, profiled the popularity of harness racing in all types of weather with this shot taken at Greenwood Raceway . The lead horse (3) is Beverly Dillard, a well known performer of the day owned by the father son team of Earl and Bruce Shea of Bethany Ont. .
My thanks to Recollections follower Glen Tiffin of Dresden for this vintage shot from his collection of "clippings" .
From The Scrapbook - "Horse Power"
January 7, 2014
I came upon this old photo and am showing it in hopes that at least a few in the audience will enjoy seeing it . I grew up around a logging and lumbering environment as my father ran a sawmill for many years and I was there from about the age of 4 .I know that a number of people engaged in the Forestry Industry have also been involved in harness racing .
From my experience this is a rather large "jag" of logs ( as we called a load) .In fact it looks like at least a half day's work or maybe a full day where I came from . We had some pretty good teams but this load looks like quite a challenge .There is even some question as to the possibility of some tampering with this old 1890's photo ?? . In any event, it is at least a good conversation piece .
Following the interest shown in the first picture I have added another
Jockey Club Memories - Cliff Hie
December 17, 2013
The latest addition to the "Jockey Club Memories" collection is the late Clifford Hie . Mr. Hie hailed from Cobourg Ontario and first entered the sport when it was truly a sport ,not yet a business . A farmer and cattle drover by trade, his love of horses led him into harness racing in his native Eastern Ontario . In the early days he often partnered and worked with another noted area horseman Jack Gordon who came from a similar background .
Today the Hie family headed up by sons Carman,Roger and Doug are very skilled and highly respected horsemen who have each made their mark in all areas of the sport their father introduced them to many years ago .
Back in 1968 somewhat of rarity occurred at Kawartha Downs the Hie's "Home Track" .Cliff and all three of his driving sons went postward in the same race which was that year's renewal of the Orval Fallis Memorial Pace for 3 year olds . Winning the race was 17 year old Doug behind Ace Hal while Carman was third,Roger fourth and father Cliff was sixth .All were driving home bred products sired by Superior Hal .
Stories such these remind us of bygone era when things were much different than they are today ;let us call it a simpler and gentler time .
Cliff Hie passed away in August of 1989 ;his legacy lives on .
Courtesy of OJC Fact Book - 1974 Edition
Jockey Club Memories - Bill Carroll
January 2, 2014
The latest Jockey Club Memories personality is William Carroll . As the attached bio states "Bill" came from a very well known racing family who hail from the Orangeville area . A couple of his brothers and other family members are still very active in the sport .
Following a very successful career in the sulky he died at a rather young age ,an unfortunate victim of cancer . Following his death and cremation ,his ashes were placed in the infield at the old Greenwood track in downtown Toronto .
Courtesy of Golden Horseshoe Circuit Fact Book 1974
A Little About Keith Quinlan -40 Years Ago
December 9, 2013
Driver Keith Quinlan (far right) is shown in the Windsor Raceway winners circle in November of 1973 following a win with Bedford Jet in the Philip Brian Memorial Pace .On the left is Al Nagler Track publicist and the winning owners Mr. and Mrs. Ed Weber . This race was held to honour a horse named Philip Brian who at one time held the Windsor track record .He recorded the first ever sub 2:00 mile in the track's history, 1:59.3 in 1968, and also helped to popularize winter racing at the Windsor oval.
Today's scrapbook picture features long time horseman Keith Quinlan , a native of Midland Ontario . He was born into a horse family and grew up around the sport with his father Ray, brother Bert and others all involved .
Keith Goes To work For Keith
At the tender age of 15 Keith accepted a summer job as a groom with Keith Waples a long time family friend who lived near the Quinlan farm. His new calling immediately took him to Montreal and soon he embarked on the Quebec stakes tour as he became the caretaker of a colt named Two Lumps .He recalls heading to Quebec City shortly after arriving in Montreal and that Gilles Gendron then a groom for the famous Miron Bros. Stable was also there with one or two of their colts .
Keith shared an interesting story to do with his going to work for the Waples Stable in far away Montreal .His mother was reluctant to see her young son be so far away from home and living on his own ,so a compromise of sorts eased the situation . Young Keith was to take up residence at Keith Waple's apartment in the big City . However the young Mr. Quinlan was immediately sent off on the road and never even got to see the apartment .(Probably better when mothers don't know absolutely everything)
Keith eventually moved on to a succession of jobs including looking after the outstanding three year old of 1965 Jerry Hal owned by Langford Farms of Kent Bridge Ont. which is just East of Chatham .He trained and drove for a lengthy period of time and headed west to British Columbia .Here he ran a stable for many years and then became Director of Racing at Fraser Downs in BC for some 20 years .
Keith is now retired from the racing "wars" and lives in Atlantic Canada .
Jockey Club Memories - Clarence "Sugar" Gagnon
December 5, 2013
The latest entry in the " Jockey Club Memories" section is Clarence "Sugar" Gagnon . His career led him to many parts of the country and I heard that in recent years he was living in British Columbia where at one time he operated his own stable .[Bio below Courtesy OJC Fact Book 1974 Edition]
I have been informed by Recollections follower Keith Quinlan that Clarence passed away in August of 2011 .
Jockey Club Memories - Rick Moffatt
November 25, 2013
The latest post for the "Jockey Club Memories" section is "Rick" Moffatt . When this photo and bio was written, he was one of the youngest members of the backstretch colony .[Courtesy of OJC Fact Book 1974]
From The Scrapbook - Chappy and Bruce
November 20, 2013
The Voice Of Harness Racing Since 1870
Today's old picture depicts two former editors and well known print media personalities from days gone by .This photo was taken many years ago in 1976 when "Chappy"(left) handed the reins of The Canadian Sportsman over to new owner Bruce Johnston on the right .The recent announcement of the upcoming closure of this 143 year old publication is a sad event for an already beleaguered sport .[Sportsman photo]
From The Scrapbook - Jimmy "Red" Holmes
November 18, 2013
Many old time horse people remember a gentleman named Jimmy "Red" Holmes a resident of Milton Ont. . This photo was taken at the O.H.H.A Annual dinner dance in 1981 . Association President Les Ehrlick is shown making the presentation for "Outstanding Senior Citizen of the Year" to Jimmy and his wife Margaret .
Jockey Club Memories - John Bosworth
November 15, 2013
Today's personality for the "Jockey Club Memories" section is John Bosworth . Mr. Bosworth had a long and interesting career in harness racing which saw him involved in many different areas,for a very long time .His activity in the sport along with his operation of his rather famous potato farm and the brand "Big B" made him a "busy man" .He still found time to drive a lot of his own horses .
John passed way recently on June 13,2013 ,just a couple months short of his 90th birthday .Despite his years ,he was still breeding,racing and raising trotters up to the time of his passing .At one time he was also on the Board of the O.J.C. [ Photo & data courtesy of OJC Fact Book 1974]
From The Scrapbook - Dresden Reunion -1987
November 12, 2013
Earlier this year I did a story recalling the 1987 Dresden Raceway .Here is another photo .
From left Jack Campbell,Duncan Campbell, Gordon Lawrence and Ray Campbell [
Authors Collection
]
Jockey Club Memories - Chas. Lawson
November 6, 2013
Today's Jockey Club Memories personality is Charles Lawson . When "Charlie" left us in May of 2010 at the age of 77 ,the sport lost a very unique personality and a man who was extremely well liked and respected wherever he travelled . In the years that followed this O.J.C. bio, Charlie's career as a driver blossomed with the advent of the Ontario Sires Stakes program . He drove many fine performers throughout the Province and was sought after as a driver even more than in previous years, a tribute to his ability with young and developing horses .
From The Scrapbook - Old Time Fairs
October 27, 2013
Many years ago a large portion of the population of Canada lived in rural areas .Much of every family's daily lives was confined to activities close to home,including attending a nearby school .Farm life was often arduous and required a lot of dedication and hard labour .
In the fall of each year, most communities engaged in social activities such as Fairs,Festivals and other agricultural based gatherings .I recently came across some what I think are extremely interesting and fascinating pictures of those long ago days . While they do not have to do with horse racing I still think they should be of interest .If you don't like these ,chances are you don't like old pictures .
Later this week one of the truly great fairs begins as The Royal Winter Fair opens in Toronto on November, 1 . It was first held in 1922 .
Note -These photos are courtesy of The Archives of Ontario with the group entitled " Strength In Community "
Ottawa 1930 -Twin brothers Boyd and Lloyd Hampton show their prize Southdown sheep .
Around 1920 these school boys and their teachers display their sheaves of finest wheat and other grains. Take note that just one boy in the group is not wearing a hat .
Two Port Hope gals display some giant Italian marrow squash at the Royal Winter Fair in 1955
More On Old Time Fairs
October 29, 2013
Recollections follower Phil Stewart sent in an interesting and very old cartoon pertaining to my recent piece on old time Fairs . He didn't say so, but I believe he is somewhere in the picture .
From The Scrapbook - Mervin Kirkness
October 29, 2013
Today's "From The Scrapbook" features a "young" horseman who turned 80 earlier this year on May 7th . His name is MERVIN KIRKNESS .
Mervin was born in Saskatchewan and later moved to Virden Manitoba .While in Virden, he developed an interest in harness racing as there were a number of racing enthusiasts in this hotbed area . He first began driving in 1954 while in the employ of Ray Dryden . Shortly after, he journeyed to the Quebec Circuit where he eventually settled and married ,racing for a number of years at the Three Rivers Track .
He later hooked up with the legendary Wilbur Thompson of Weyburn Sask. and trained and drove for him for a number of years .In the mid to late 1960's he moved to Ontario, settling in Leamington .He still resides there and assists some of the local trainers such as Rod Duford and Reg Mullholland .
I just had a visit with Merv during the recent Leamington 4 day race program held in October .One subject we touched on was 5 mile racing in Quebec .He said he recalled it being almost like Little Brown Jug Day with so much excitement and people taking "perches" wherever they could .Barn roofs were a favourite spot to get a bird's eye view .
1958 - Brandy Hal owned,trained and driven by Mervin Kirkness at Three Rivers Quebec
Ken Carmichael Passes
October 29, 2014
Condolences are extended to the family of the late Ken Carmichael of Milton Ont. who passed away on October 25th 2014 . "Kenny" was well known and well loved by the many people he encountered over the years . He was fortunate to have enjoyed a number of years of retirement after his long career . He was active until the end and was able to attend the recent 90th birthday gathering of his mentor Dr. John Findley which was held in September of this year .
I have reposted a biography and photograph from the 1974 Golden Horseshoe Fact Book which contains a short narrative as it applied some 40 years ago .It originally appeared on this website in October 2013 and will remain under the "Jockey Club Memories" section.
Today's Jockey Club Memories personality is Ken Carmichael . One rather important facet of Ken's long career in the sport followed the writing of the attached biography. Ken spent a number of years as part of the Wm. Wellwood stable as a trainer and developer of a large number of fine colt performers .(Courtsey of OJC Fact Book 1974)
Jockey Club Memories - Jim Muttart
October 11, 2013
Today's Jockey Club memories post is about Jim Muttart .Jim won a number of driving honours over the years at various OJC tracks .He drove quite a few good horses, but somehow I remember the name Jo Dale Liner owned by Della Maltby as one of his better ones .(Data shown below courtesy of OJC Fact Book )
Jockey Club Memories - Ken Webb
September 27, 2013
Today's Jockey Club Memories page features Ken Webb ,a horseman remembered by many I am sure . (From OJC Fact Book 1974) Note : Previous Jockey Club Memory entries may be found in the section "From The Scrapbook "
From The Scrapbook - Racing In Vermont
October 17, 2013
This great old photograph taken many years ago at Rutland Vermont(see the name on the grandstand roof) shows a field of horses entering the first turn . The infield with cars parked close to the track made a great vantage point for race viewers .Because of the closeness of the northern border of Vermont and the Province of Quebec , many Canadian horsemen competed there especially at Fair time .Towns such as Essex Junction,Barton, Tunbridge and Lyndonville were stops in The Green Mountain State .
Jockey Club Memories - Serge Dubord
October 3, 2013
Today's Jockey Club Memories photo probably should contain a slightly "Belated " birthday wish as Serge Dubord just notched another year on September 23 rd. According to some authentic information recently received, Mr. Dubord now lives near Fort Erie Ont. where he and his wife Ruth are enjoying their retirement years .I am also pleased to learn that he is a reader of Recollections ;the place where you get the oldest news in town.
Information below courtesy of OJC Fact Book 1974 Thanks to bill Galvin
From The Scrapbook - Ron McGee
October 7, 2013
Today's scrapbook picture features the late Ron McGee of Goderich Ont. . While Ron is remembered by many as a long time O.R.C. Judge ,he began his career in the sport as a trainer and driver . He first drove in 1951 at the tender age of 16, when he piloted an old trotter named Joe Bunter at many one day meets across Southwestern Ontario . Many of the horses he drove were owned by his father Reg McGee an automobile dealer in Goderich .His greatest single day in the sulky came in September of 1959 when he piloted 7 winners out of 8 drives at Goderich including that year's 3 year old Supertest Pace winner Poplar Flash C .
In later years Ron gave up his training and driving and became a judge , a position he truly enjoyed and pursued for some 20 years .He passed away at the age of 75 on December 7,2010 . I am indebted to Ron for the assistance and encouragement he gave to me right up until the time of his passing .
Ron McGee is in the sulky as his father Reg McGee holds Lenas Boy in the Old Woodbine winners circle back in 1955 .
From The Scrapbook - Racing At The Orono Fair 1976
September 20, 2013
This old ad from 1976 shows the details for that year's Orono Fair . This Central Eastern Ontario town held harness racing for many years and was always a popular stop on the fall schedule . A number of noted and accomplished horsemen and horsewomen hail from this area . The program includes a remembrance of a couple of popular figures associated with the town .
Jack Reid of Orono was a highly respected horseman who always maintained a very small but quality based stable . He was also at times called upon by other trainers to drive their stake trotters . A race was named after Muddy George a horse from this area owned by Mr. Lawrence Hooey ,who went on to stardom at many Canadian and U.S. tracks .
Jockey Club Memories - Laurance Geisel
September 11, 2013
Today's Jockey Club Memories is an excerpt from the 1974 OJC Fact Book .It is a short bio for Laurance Geisel who in later years became a judge .
From The Scrapbook - Wilcos Comet -1984
September 9, 2013
Sept. 15, 1984 - Driver Trevor Ritchie is alone at the Mohawk wire as he establishes an all-time O.S.S. speed mark for rookie pacing colts. WILCOS COMET sired by Armbro Splurge paced to a 1:58 mile in the $ 53,075 second Division of The O.S.S.that evening .The first division went to Twin B Playboy (Doug Brown) in a slower time of 1:59.3
Wilcos Comet was the property of The Golden Horseshoe Stable of East Detroit Mi and trained by the late Lew Clark
Steve Tambosso photo
Jockey Club Memories - 1967
September 3, 2013
Way back on July 29,1967 Ontario Harness racing finally recorded its first Two Minute Mile .The "Miracle Mile" was turned in by Good Time Boy in rein to Quebec born teamster Jimmy Larente . The winning time was 1:59.2 and came in that year's Canadian Pacing Derby at Greenwood Raceway .Prior to this memorable event Richelieu Park was home to 4 miles in 2:00 or under and Blue Bonnets recorded the other 5 .
While this was Ontario's first sub 2:00 score, it was the 10th in Canadian history following the first ever recorded in a race when Mighty Dudley first did it in 1959 for Keith Waples at Richelieu Park scoring in 1:59.3 .
It is interesting to note just how scarce two minute miles were as the second two minute clocking in Ontario did not come until August 24, 1968 when Blaze Pick toured the Mohawk oval in 2:00 flat for owners Jean and Russell Miller of Dutton Ont. driven by Ron Waples .Later that fall two more scores were recorded in Ontario when St James Street (Duncan MacTavish) paced in 1:59.4 at Garden City and Philip Brian (Jim Merriman Jr.) recorded a mile at Windsor in 1:59.3 .Faster miles continued to be logged at Quebec tracks with a total of 8 in two minutes or less during 1968 .
In 1969 only two sub 2:00 miles were added to the list for all of Canada, but by 1970 the tempo picked up and has never stopped .The "shine" that once accompanied a 2:00 mile is now just a distant memory for most .
Jimmy Larente and Good Time Boy enjoy the moment as Ontario racing recorded its first "Miracle Mile" .
From The Scrapbook - Mystery Skipper
August 30, 2013
Mystery Skipper and trainer-driver Doug Arthur are all alone at the wire in this 1984 photo taken at Greenwood .The three year old son of Senor Skipper - Laura Lobell was the top performer in his class that year for owners Kim & Danny Husted of Tillsonburg and The Kingfish Stable of Norwich Ont. .His record of 1:55 made him the fastest performer to come out of the O.S.S. program up to this point .(Brian Smiley photo)
NEW FEATURE -Jockey Club Memories
August 29, 2013
Recollections has added another new regular feature entitled "Jockey Club Memories" . This ongoing section will feature mainly profiles and biographies of the horse people who were involved in the sport in the early 1970's .
Thanks to the generosity of former Ontario Jockey Club Public Relations personality William Galvin who has provided this material, I am able to reproduce many great pieces of his work in their original form .
This feature will include many pictures of the people who were then household names and even a few who are still active today .Read on ......
From The Scrapbook - Allan Walker
August 26, 2013
Thoroughbred trainer Horatio Luro and Allan Walker, leading collector of silver trophies at the Mohawk fall meeting. Canadian Intrusion regained his winning ways with a record-breaking performance in the $3,980 Fort George Trot before 5,421 fans as The Intruder-sired gelding, who races in the silks of Ross and Colin MacKinnon of Owen Sound, trotted in 2:47 and reduced his own track record by three and one-fifth seconds for the one and five-sixteenths miles test. (Courtesy of Harness Horse)
Canadian Intrusion and driver Allan Walker are greeted in the Mohawk winner's circle by noted Thoroughbred trainer Horatio Luro a native of Argentina .This horse was a foal of the family owned mare Lady Pearl and sired by 1961 Hambletonian winner The Intruder .This was one of 10 season's wins for this horse who also finished second in that year's Maple Leaf Trot . During his career he was driven by a number of different well known horsemen including Harold and Bill Wellwood ,Peter Thibaudeau and the ill fated Wilbert Hopkins who was in the seat for many of the 1964 victories .
A number of descendants of Allan and Viola Walker are still very involved in the sport .This past Saturday evening August 24th, the annual "Walker Memorial Trot" was held at Hanover Raceway .It is a fitting gesture to rekindle the memory of such nice people .
From The Scrapbook - Vernon Downs -1953
August 23, 2013
Shown here is the Vernon Downs track layout with the chute formation (to the left) which was a new innovation at the time .(Harness Horse Photo)
60 years ago in July of 1953, Vernon Downs opened its doors to racing .Its unique track which featured a chute where the horses
started and proceeded onto the main track which was 3/4 miles long . The track was designed to produce speed as the horses had the advantage of a long straightaway at the start and with a larger track, there were less turns .
Most of the sport's top trainers and drivers appeared at the inaugural meeting . Names such as Delvin Miller,Wayne "Curly" Smart,Ralph Baldwin,Jimmy Arthur, Joe O'Brien and Frank Ervin joined in the first year proceedings . A number of Canadian horsemen were there as well .The first week's top driver was a young Canadian Wm. "Buddy" Gilmour who scored 6 wins in the shortened 4 night program .
The Diplomat and driver Vic Rowntree were first year participants .This horse who raced for many years on both Canadian and U.S. tracks was owned by Alex Parsons of London Ont. (HH Photo)
Alfreda Hanover and driver Joe O'Brien appear in the Vernon Downs winners circle (H H Photo)
From The Scrapbook - Norwood Fair Pictures
August 12, 2013
Following an earlier post regarding harness racing at the Norwood Ont. Fair I received a very nice note along with two very good quality pictures which I have shown below . My thanks to Mr. Dornan for his thoughts .
Hello Robert :
I enjoyed browsing through your website ;it is very interesting to see such history preserved and appreciated .
I have attached a couple of photos that you are free to use if you wish .
One is of an actual race during the Fair while the other is included more as an example as it is not a harness racing picture ,however it is a unique shot of a prize winning horse and cart .
Both shots are late 1950's and are a little unusual due to the fact they are in colour .Both came to us from the grandson of a former Norwood Methodist Church choir director who dabbled in photography as a hobby .
From :
Jeff Dornan
Vice President
The Norwood Agricultural Society
Archivist, The Norwood Fair
Publicity and Advertising Director
Vice President
The Norwood Agricultural Society
Archivist, The Norwood Fair
Publicity and Advertising Director
A great shot at about the Judges Stand . Note how close the spectators are to the action
A very nice picture of "Driving Horses" on display at the Norwood Fair .
From The Scrapbook - Helicopter's "Crew"
August 4, 2013
As a follow up to the recent story about Helicopter's outstanding victory in the 1953 Hambletonian .
From left - Driver Harry Harvey,Helicopter, Elgin Armstrong & Mrs.Vivian Armstrong (Hoof Beats Photo) Courtesy of Don Daniels
From The Scrapbook - Young Boys At Old Woodbine
August 2, 2013
Long before the days of video games,I Pods,texting,etc.,etc. youngsters entertained themselves in various ways .
Recently a few discussions have taken place about young boys and girls on the backstretch at Old Woodbine in Toronto .This photo shows a couple of young boys empowered with the latest technology of the day ,each with a set of binoculars trackside at the downtown Toronto oval .(I do not know the identity of these lads)
From The Scrapbook - Jimmy Cruise
July 24, 2013
Famed U.S. horseman Jimmy Cruise (on the right) appears with his father Hardy Cruise in their native area of Bullitt County Kentucky .(photo reproduced with permission from the Bullitt County History Museum)
In a recent post regarding the 1968 Maple Leaf Trot won by Earl Laird ,mention was made of the horse's trainer and driver Jimmy Cruise . He is shown here in an early picture taken with his horseman father . Jimmy Cruise's first major victory came behind a Canadian owned horse named Blue Again trained by Will Fraser of Ridgetown Ont. .
In 1946, right after WW II ,a major race meeting was held at Hollywood Park in Santa Anita California . The two biggest races held were The Golden West Pace and Golden West Trot ,both of which carried a purse of $50,000 .
Jimmy Cruise had travelled to California to drive his father in law's horse but unfortunately the horse suffered a broken leg . The owner of Blue Again, Mr. Warren Leatherdale then of Windsor Ont., decided to engage the services of driver Cruise and the pair ended up winning this huge money event .The race was at a distance of 1 and 1/4 miles and had a huge field of 20 starters ! .The clocking of 2:32 1/2 set a new world's record at that time .
I had the pleasure of meeting Jimmy Cruise at Ben White Raceway in Florida around 1985 and enjoyed a lengthy visit with him, reminiscing about many of his lifetime accomplishments and memories . Mr. Cruise died in 2002 at the age of 84 .
From The Scrapbook - Allan Volo
July 23, 2013
Recollections follower Paul Warwick sent in an old family picture of his grandfather's horse ALLAN VOLO . His grandpa, "Doc" Warwick, was reportedly a well known veterinarian from the Brussels Ont. area many years ago .
Paul relates that Allan Volo was noted for "being able to go the distance" ,meaning that he excelled in longer distance races .I was able to find a 1945 race summary from Quebec City where Allan Volo won a 5 mile race .Time for the extended distance event which carried a purse of $100 was 13:14 . Incidentally two other races that day carried purses of $50 and $75 each, so being able to go the extra mile (or in this case extra 4 miles) paid a handsome dividend .
In the old books ,limited information is given but I am guessing this was the pictured horse .He was sired by Bennett Volo a noted sire from Southwestern Ontario who stood around the Parkhill area .
From The Scrapbook - Grand Circuit Drivers Coming
July 4, 2013
Today's Scrapbook picture shows 6 top drivers scheduled to appear during Grand Circuit Week at Greenwood Raceway in 1970 .This was usually considered the highlight of the summer season as the best horses and drivers from both Canada and the U.S. appeared each night for a week's time .(Harness Horse Happenings)
After many year's absence from Ontario, the Grand Circuit returned to Greenwood in 1969 .
Readers Comment :
Leroy Copeland reported (via Bill O'Donnell) that he recalls this week and winning with his good horse Jeffferson Time .
From The Scrapbook - "Rail Birds"
June 26, 2013
"Rail Bird" ,a species not likely to be found in most editions of the Audubon Book of Birds ,was once a common sight around all Racetracks . Today their sightings are somewhat rare .
This photograph was taken on the backstretch at Leamington Raceway around 1988 ,hence 25 years ago . "Railbirds" pictured are all locals . From Left - Reg Mullholland (wearing silks) a local horseman,Hector Armstrong horseman, R M Smith (Author of Recollections), Wm. James horse owner, George Rogers horse owner, Norman "Bucky " Platford horseman and ORC Racing Judge .
(Dennis Smith photo)
From The Scrapbook - Old Scorecards
June 21, 2013
I have displayed some interesting old "scorecards" as race programs were once known . These early version of programs contained minimal information beyond a horse's name, owner and sometimes the driver . One interesting feature of many programs was the "sponsor" list . Businesses and individuals paid $1.00 (the amount sometimes varied) to help finance the race day and in return had their names printed on the scorecard .(courtesy of B Lawson)
These old artifacts are great pieces of history and nostalgia .
This is the Free For All from the Orangeville program of 1959 .
From The Scrapbook - Mohawk Program -1971
June 11, 2013
Pictured as today's "Scrapbook " item is a copy of a November 19,1971 Mohawk Program cover which then cost 35 Cents . I have included a page to show a featured race of the day .
With Mohawk now 50 Years in business this could be classed as "An Early Year's Program" .....
From The Scrapbook - Brent Davies
May 30, 2013
Brent Davies ,brush in hand ,tends to a member of his stable in this 1967 Photo
The following item is from the October 1967 edition of "Harness Horse Happenings" .Thanks to Editor Bill Galvin
" One of the finest success stories in modern day harness racing centres around Brent Davies ,a mite sized sulky sitter from Regina Sask. .Just 21 years of age and a light 123 pounds, Davies arrived at Greenwood Raceway last Jan. 2 with a three horse outfit .He won races with his trio but they soon became sidelined with lameness .In the meantime,veteran trainers noticed Davies hustling style of driving and since then his catch-driving services have been in constant demand .Davies drove his first race in 1963 and the following season won 13 races and $2,151 in purses .This year the amazing young teamster has visited the winners circle 90 times .His drives have netted $ 95,046 in purses ."
From The Scrapbook - Top Drivers -1969
May 23, 2013
By the end of the decade of the 1960's ,horsemen racing in Ontario were able to record some very substantial earnings as illustrated by this photo .(Courtesy of Harness Horse Happenings -OJC)
A group of very talented young drivers had emerged at this time .At the age of 45 Keith Waples was the elder statesman followed by Wm. Wellwood (29) ,Ron Feagan (27),Allan Waddell (26) and Brent Davies (24) .
From The Scrapbook - "Sonny" Geisel
May 14, 2013
This great action photo of Jacob "Sonny" Geisel Jr. graced the front cover of the September 1968 issue of Harness Horse Happenings .The horse is Pat's Lightening a pacer owned by John Rier of Elmwood Ontario . The then 38 year old Geisel was part of a well known harness racing family that competed regularly on the Ont. Jockey Club Circuit as well as in their home area of Hanover .
Unfortunately Sonny's career was ended at a very young age when he was killed in a farm related accident .
Comment From Phil Stewart :
Robert: Just a little sidelight - One time in 1960 Bernard Hunt, Jack Jeffreys and myself went to Connaught to watch Allan Pacey race Jack's 3 yr old "JMJ" . At the time you needed Horseman's passes to get in the grandstand and Allan had borrowed them for us. He handed 'em out and I got "MRS. Jacob Sonny Geisel Jr"s pass!! I said Whoa and Allan said They'll never pay any attention but if anything's said just tell 'em you grabbed the wrong one off the dresser!From The Scrapbook - Ron Waples
May 3, 2013
Today's Scrapbook picture seems to be proof of two things .....Ron Waples Sr. (of course) was once not only young but also serious and thankfully I have been able to come up with a picture to prove it .
Ron is one of the last of the old time story tellers and the fact that they are becoming a dying breed concerns me .
He once told (probably quite a few times) of a happening way back at the old Greenwood Track .I believe it was one of those memorable and exciting Saturday afternoon matinees when this happened . Ronnie had won several races ,maybe 4 or 5 and the crowd was going wild ...cheering and just having a grand old time .At this time Ron was still working for his cousin Keith Waples who also served as his mentor and teacher of course .
Ron was certain after a performance like this that a Royal Welcome would be in order when he returned to the barn .Perhaps a red carpet reception ,maybe he would hear the popping of champagne corks !!
As he entered the barn only Keith was there .He sat on a stool ,reading the condition sheets for the upcoming day's races .Not a word ...Ronnie walked up and down the aisle ...still not a word ..
Finally the silence was broken as Keith calmly said " You better check those horse's water pails ;some of them might be dry ...."
From The Scrapbook - Guy H Sets Record at Batavia -1948
April 26, 2013
Gene Krupa, noted orchestra leader and drummer, presents a cooler to H. LaRochelle who drove Guy H., Canadian free-for-all pacer, to a spectacular win at Batavia Downs August 25th, setting a new track record of 2:05 and 1/5 for the mile distance. Race Secretary John Maas (center) looks on. (Harness Horse photo)
Looking Back to 1948 -Racing fans at Batavia Downs have long realized that Canadian horses and horsemen have performed well over their track . On the evening of August 25,1948 GUY H owned by Elzear Cournoyer of Sorel Quebec and driven by Honorat Larochelle, set a new track record bettering the old mark which had been in existence for two years .While this speedy mile was a new standard for Batavia, Guy H sported a lifetime best of 2:00 3/4 taken earlier in his career at Lexington . Guy H was among the very best horses of his era ,performing at the Free For All level for years as well as being successful in a number of match races .At one time a special Memorial Race was held each year at one of the major Montreal Tracks to remember the contributions of this famous steed .
From The Scrapbook - Two Bills and the "Roarin' Grand"
April 21, 2013
These two gentlemen should need little introduction to anyone familiar with Canadian harness racing in at least the past 50+ years.
Back about 1972, the camera lens caught "Two Bills" engaged in a light hearted conversation during Grand Circuit Week at the Old Greenwood Raceway .
From left (both looking only slightly younger than they do today ) are Bill McDonnell and Bill Galvin .
I feel personally blessed to know both of these fine fellows and appreciate the assistance they have given me in the production of "Recollections"
From The Scrapbook - Bill Rowe
April 10, 2013
This 1964 photo shows a trio of very well known personalities of the day engaged in conversation .On the left is William Rowe ,centre is famed U.S.horseman Stanley Dancer and on the right John Hayes Sr. .On this occasion Mr. Dancer was a guest of honour and speaker at the annual meeting of The Ontario Harness Horsemen's Association in Toronto .
Congratulations to the family of the late Wm. Rowe who was elected this week to The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in the builders category .This is a well deserved honour for a man who did so much for the betterment of the sport during his extremely long career .
From The Scrapbook - Ice Racing
March 27, 2013
This wonderful old undated picture shows Ice Racing with a picturesque background,the setting believed to be in New York State in the Adirondack Mountain Region .
In the older days of harness racing, Ice Racing was a popular wintertime form of the sport .It seemed to be most prevalent in the Eastern regions of Canada and the U.S. .Horses were usually what was called "Sharp Shod" which meant that their shoes were equipped with "caulks" (normally pronounced "corks" ) to give better footing and reduce slippage . While the "corks" were advantageous for negotiating the slippery ice surfaces, they could also at times be dangerous if a horse struck itself .
From The Scrapbook - Top Drivers of 1959
March 20, 2013
Pictured today in the latest post on "From The Scrapbook" are the two top drivers from 1959 .
In the upper photo is Wm. "Buddy" Gilmour , a native of Ridgeway Ont.. At the very young age of just 27, he had already escalated to the top of the national ranking of drivers by winning a total of 165 races during the 1959 season .
In the lower photo is Wm. R. "Billy" Haughton originally from Gloversville in rural New York State .(True to its name, at one time 90% of all gloves sold in the U.S. were made there ) At this time, he was just 36 years of age and was the top driver in the sport .He led all drivers in earnings during the 1959 season, taking home $695,296 in purse money for his public stable owners .
As most long time fans of harness racing know ,both of these gentlemen went on from here to long and highly successful careers .
From The Scrapbook - Johnny Chapman 65 Years Ago
March 13, 2013
Above photo shows 19 year old driver Johnny Chapman in the winner's circle with The Count B following a win at Buffalo Raceway . Presenter is Roscoe Holmes Racing Commissioner for N.Y. State .(Harness Horse)
Above photo was taken during a horseman's get together at Buffalo Raceway in 1948 .The young gentleman in the foreground of the picture is 19 year old Johnny Chapman ,the youngest driver at Buffalo Raceway that season .(Harness Horse)
Above photo shows a portion of a large crowd during the early days at Buffalo Raceway .(Harness Horse)
Canadian Stables Doing Well at Buffalo - 1948 Season
A sizable number of Canadian based stables are currently campaigning at Buffalo Raceway in Hamburg New York .On most race nights, Canadian teamsters are among the busiest and most successful .One of the most talked about drivers at the border oval this season is the young 19 year old Toronto born Johnny Chapman .The son of noted horseman Clifford Chapman Sr. ,Johnny won his first race at his "home" track Dufferin Park driving a horse named Cyrus Martin,trained by his father for owner James Brown of New Liskeard Ont.(father of Dr. Glen Brown) .
One horse that the young teamster has steered to the winner's circle on several occasions this season is Canada's most famous horse The Count B ,a 4 time winner of The Canadian Pacing Derby held annually in late August at Fountain Park in New Hamburg Ontario .This unmistakable roan gelding was the property of J.W. Brown mentioned above. The Count won this then prestigious race 4 out of 5 years ,1944,1945,1947,1948 .His dominance was interrupted in 1946 when Blue Again (Harold Wellwood) won all 3 heats for owner Warren Leatherdale of Windsor Ont. .
A number of the Canadian horsemen stabled at Buffalo are currently driving for U.S. owners as it would appear that they like the way the "boys" from north of the border handle the reins .
Follow Up - Johnny Chapman went on to a long and successful career in harness racing which eventually saw him capture most of the major races and honours in the sport . In 1980 at the young age of just 52, he passed away suddenly from a rare illness which curtailed an even more illustrious career .He is a member of both the Canadian and U.S. Halls of Fame along with his father and the aforementioned The Count B. .John's brother Clifford Jr. (affectionately known as "Chappy Jr.") was involved in many facets of the sport, most notably as a publisher and a bid spotter . Another brother Carl, spent a lifetime as a trainer of Thoroughbreds .
My thanks to Don Daniels for the pictures .
From The Scrapbook - Two Georges
February 25, 2013
Two Georges - On the left is U.S. Hall of Fame driver George Sholty ,sharing a light hearted moment with his somewhat " larger " friend George Rattenbury of Muncie Indiana .[Roosevelt Raceway archives]
Over the years much debate has been offered regarding the size and weight of a harness driver affecting a horse's performance . As far as I know, no one has ever actually come to a definitive conclusion that a "smaller" driver is more likely to win than a "larger" driver .I believe that it would be a logical conclusion that a horse might have to work a little harder to pull a larger one .....
In any event this old photograph illustrates that harness drivers can and do come in all shapes and sizes .(See also below)
Someone found this picture of George Rattenbury reportedly taken in 1991 that stated he was still driving in a handfull of races each year (perhaps 10) .
He was just 92 Years of age at the time ! Not too difficult to believe he was stated to be "Oldest Known Harness Driver" .
From The Scrapbook - Harry Eisen And Dave Wall
February 20, 2013
In my opinion one of the greatest honours that anyone connected with Canadian harness racing can have bestowed upon them is to be inducted as a member of the Western Fair " Wall Of Fame " . This prestigious group was started back in 1977 when William Herbert was installed as the first "Wall" member .From that time onward, many deserving people have been honoured .
In 1980, London Free Press columnist and horse fancier Harry Eisen became the first non horseman to be inducted .
The photo which was taken a number of years ago shows Mr. Eisen with Dave Wall ,himself a Wall inductee from 1988 .
February 11, 2013
Photo shows pacer Royal Blackstone and driver Harold Wellwood at Northville Downs during the 1952 season winning the meeting's top race .
Royal Blackstone Wins The Michigan Pacing Derby -1952
When night racing first started at Northville Downs in Northville Michigan during WW II in 1944 ,a sizable number of Canadian horsemen ventured across the border to join in on this new format . Among them were such names as Harold Wellwood , Marshall Moore, Alfred Moore, Joe Hodgins, Floyd Milton, Harold Carr, Gordon Ramsey ,Leo Charlesworth,Russell Miller and numerous others .The opportunity to race several times a week without having to move was an enticement in itself . The availability of secure stabling,good training facilities,an on site blacksmith shop and a Track kitchen added to the likability of this whole new way of racing .All things that have been taken for granted for many decades .
As night racing became more popular and successful ,the benefits of pari mutuel wagering translated into larger purses for the competing horsemen .Fairly early in the process, tracks began to establish feature races with much higher purses and accompanying trophies . Dignitaries from local, State and Federal offices were often invited to participate in the after race presentations . As purse offerings rose, top horses from other tracks shipped in to compete with local talent .
In 1952, Northville's most prestigious race was called "The Michigan Pacing Derby " .It offered a then large purse of $10,000 . On the evening of Friday August 1 ,1952 the race was held in front of a standing room only crowd and attracted a total of 7 starters . A Michigan owned horse ROYAL BLACKSTONE won the race, taking both heats .He was driven by then 46 year old Canadian horseman Harold Wellwood whose talents attracted several U.S. owners who hired him as a catch driver .This top flight horse was at the peak of his career at the age of 6 and during this season he won 12 of 19 starts, all in Free For All competition .His season's earnings amounted to $ 16,875, boosting him to a lifetime bank account of just over $ 100,000 .The mile times were 2:05.3 and 2:06.1 .Royal Blackstone who sported a lifetime mark of 1:58.3 taken at age 5, was owned by Brown Stables of Detroit Michigan and Mr. Brown was a Ford automobile dealer for many years .
Just one Canadian entry was in the field and that was Carter Hy owned by Moore Bros. of Sarnia and handled by Marshall Moore . While their final standing was a disappointing 7-5 ,they proved that horses from north of the border belonged in the season's top races .
An interesting event arises out of this story which I will include in an upcoming edition of "Recollections" .
From The Scrapbook - Peaches Atom
January 6, 2013
Ten year old Helen Brooke K ,profiled recently with driver Clint Galbraith (No. 5) is unable to catch another great Canadian trotting mare Peaches Atom (No. 2) driven by Dr. John Findley in this 1964 race at Buffalo Raceway . Two years prior to this, Helen Brooke K miraculously escaped a huge fire at Batavia that claimed the lives of 25 horses including 4 of her stable mates .
Peaches Atom was a standout performer for many years racing for Dr. Findley and owners MacBurney and Altman of Ottawa Ont. and later joined the broodmare band at Madawaska Farm in Arnprior .
From The Scrapbook - O.H.H.A - 1984
December 28, 2012
Early in 1984 Directors & Officers of the Ontario Harness Horsemen's Association gathered for their annual meeting and this group photo was taken .(the Standardbred)
From The Scrapbook - Windsor 100 Years Ago
December 19, 2012
Just recently an elderly lady in Windsor Ont. discovered quite a treasure on her bookshelf that she had not noticed in many years . It was a pictorial collection from the Windsor area including some adjoining communities such as Walkerville,Ford City,Sandwich and Ojibway .It was compiled by The Evening Record . Its slightly over 100 pages contain some pretty amazing historical pictures .
On page 27 is a picture of what people were doing in Windsor 100 years ago . What else ?....They were attending the races .
Windsor Ontario has been home to at least 5 Racetracks spanning the past 3 centuries . At one time Windsor Driving Park or Windsor Jockey Club was situated at the current location of Jackson Park in down town Windsor . A bit further south on Howard Ave. were the two very famous tracks Devonshire and Kenilworth .The Devonshire Mall is now where the track of the same name once stood .Across the road a housing area still bears the name of the once popular Kenilworth track .
In later years Philips Park staged standardbred racing on Matchette Road where today Mic Mac Park is located .
Then in 1965 Windsor Raceway was built in the area once known as Ojibway and it of course closed its doors in recent months . Now there is further talk of yet another Racetrack just in the planning stages east of the City at a still undetermined location .
From The Scrapbook - Maritime Memories
November 13, 2012
The Canadian Maritime Provinces have produced many great horsemen down through the years and the current edition of From The Scrapbook carries a fine yesteryear representative from that region .Harley Harrison began his career racing at all of the major tracks throughout the entire Maritime area and raced a number of first class horses for several decades before his travels took him further afield .
He moved on to Quebec and eventually he and his family moved to Ontario .In a later chapter of his career he plied another of his talents when he did the shoeing for the then large Del MacTavish Stable . I can recall in the early 1960's delivering firewood to his backstretch blacksmith shop at the Leamington Fairgrounds .
The sons of Harley and his wife Albina also followed in the footsteps of their father serving in numerous capacities within the world of harness racing .Son Paul has been an O.R.C. Judge for many years as well as other sons Norm ,Murray who passed away in 2005 and also John or "Gene" who died in 2009 .Gene trained for a number of top stables including those of Bud Gilmour and Bob McIntosh .
Harley Harrison passed away in 1981 after a long and productive career in harness racing .
Also shown below is a photo of the racing officials who presided over "Old Home Week " in 1946 .I notice that years ago everyone was always dressed in a suit and tie and also to be kind they all had a "senior" look about them .Also the old felt hats were "Standard Issue" for several generations of well dressed men .
Officials at Charlottetown Old Home week, left to right. Front row--Wilfred Boulter, Secretary; Col. A. D. MacKinnon, President; Dr. F. C. Dougan, Starter. Back row--W. J. Brown, Clerk of Course; Thane Belyea, Judge; Walter Brown, Presiding Judge; Harry Silliphant, Judge.
From The Scrapbook - Floating The Track at Old Woodbine
October 26, 2012
From The Scrapbook - Paul Wisniewski
October 21, 2012
Photo shows Paul Wisniewski (far left) in the Flamboro Downs winner's circle on January 20,1985 .Present on a bitterly cold night to welcome the winning connections is also Race Secretary Jack Harris at horse's head along with driver Carman Hie and owner Dr. Donald Wood .The winning horse was Minto Jaye a 6 year old gray mare by Smog .The race was "The Matchmaker Series" final for a purse of $20,000 and the winning time was 2:04.3 .
We recently lost a long time supporter and all around "Good Guy" with the passing of Paul Wisniewski on September 18, 2012 .Paul was involved in harness racing for many decades in organizing , promoting and working for the betterment of the sport .He held numerous positions within several governing bodies but his first love was the preservation of grass roots harness racing . His tireless efforts and countless hours spent on saving Fall Fair racing made him a friend to many communities across Ontario .
At the time of this picture, Paul was Flamboro's Director of Special Promotions .
From The Scrapbook - Feagans Breaking a Colt
October 9, 2012
At the head of the horse is noted horseman and top notch driver Ronnie Feagan and his father Keith Feagan (with the reins) both of Goderich Ont. .This photo was taken at Garden City Raceway in St. Catharines Ont. in 1968 .No report on how the colt turned out ....
From The Scrapbook - Lindsay Fair Ad -1967
From The Scrapbook - Leamington 1980's
September 3, 2012
A free hat included with a $2 admission sounds like a pretty good deal !
From The Scrapbook - Memories of New Hamburg
August 26, 2012
Lower - A granite shaft erected at the finish wire at New Hamburg's Fountain Park marks the final resting place of 4 time Canadian Pacing Derby winner The Count B., owned throughout his illustrious career by James Brown of New Liskeard Ont. father of Dr. Glen Brown .
I would like to thank Recollections follower Terry Mullen for graciously supplying these excellent photos from his personal collection .
From The Scrapbook - Ladies At The Track
Is it possible that the way ladies dress while attending the races just may have changed slightly ??.
From The Scrapbook - Bill Habkirk
May 7, 2012
Driver Wm. "Bill" Habkirk appears in the Thorncliffe Park winner's circle with the trotting mare Peggy Lee in this 1952 photo . Habkirk was a leading figure at most Ontario and Quebec tracks for nearly half a century and often raced during the winter months at the old Dufferin Park in Toronto . He was publicly recognized in many areas and fittingly in 1987 he and Sadie his wife and "work" partner for many years, were inducted into the WFR Wall of Fame .
From The Scrapbook - The Pie Table at New Hamburg Ont.
May 6, 2012
Racing in the "old days" was not always just about the races . This great picture shows the "Pie Table" that was part of the great meals that were served at the New Hamburg Ontario track on their annual race day . Once the races were completed, which included the season's most prestigious race" The Canadian Pacing Derby", many of the visitors gathered for a delicious meal served by several local groups such as Church and Civic organizations .Pictured here are members of the New Hamburg Women's Institute.
I can't tell for sure what flavour of pies are available but " I'll have Rhubarb ,or apple or cherry or lemon or ...... "
Note : On this day the annual Canadian Pacing Derby was won by the great Dr. Stanton from Forest Ont. -August 1950 .
From The Scrapbook - The Greenwood Backstretch
March 29, 2012
From The Scrapbook - Dr. John Findley
March 23, 2012
Top Photo - Spud Volo hustles to the wire a winner at Thorncliffe Park in 2:13.3 for his season's record .
Bottom Photo - Photographer Michael Burns captures a winner's circle picture of Spud Volo and driver Dr. John S. Findley .
In 1951, Thorncliffe Park was in its second season of operation and many of the day's top horsemen and horses were stabled at this quaint Toronto Track . Among the driver's colony was Dr. John S. Findley of Arnprior Ont. who at the time was nearing his 27th birthday . Included in his stable, which he co-owned with his father under the ownership name "John Findley & Son ",was Spud Volo shown above . That season the 4 year old gelded son of Corporal Lee won a total of 7 races from 36 starts and put $ 925.41 in the Findlay bank account .
It was quite a luxury to only have to go a single heat for a $300 purse .
From The Scrapbook - Drivers Room at Roosevelt
February 29, 2012
From The Scrapbook - When The Infield Was In
December 30, 2011
Top Photo - Taken at Libertyville Illinois in 1908
Lower Photo - Parking around the inner portion of the track at an undisclosed location
In the early days of racing, the track's infield was an important location . It not only housed the judge's stand, it was also a favourite parking area as well as one of the prime places for people to position themselves to watch a race . Today the infield is just a barren wasteland and not an integral part of any racing operation . The old pictures shown, display how it was once used . I am sure that safety concerns played a huge role in its demise .
From The Scrapbook - Harrowing The Track
December 13, 2011
These old photographs capture some very interesting aspects of the early days of racing .Thankfully someone had the foresight to take the pictures and also it is fortunate that they are still around for us to enjoy .
Top - Teams of horses were used to condition the track long before the days of tractors or other motorized vehicles .
Lower - This picture was taken at the New Orleans Louisiana Track presumably around 1920 and shows how ornate and elaborate the old racecourses were .
From The Scrapbook - Accident At Alvinston
October 27, 2011
This rather "fuzzy" old photo taken many years ago at Alvinston Ont. (Lambton County), depicted what was not an uncommon scene at some of the old Race days . Narrow tracks,sometimes in bad condition,old and worn out equipment and a number of other factors often led to accidents . It was not unusual for well meaning bystanders to leap out onto to the track to catch a runaway horse ; unfortunately that was about the worst thing that could happen . With few security measures such as barriers or fences in place, coupled with ineffective PA systems, it is a wonder that more people were not injured .
Such were the times .............
From The Scrapbook - Tillsonburg Ont.
April 30, 2014
Scenes such as this were once commonplace across the country as most small Towns in nearly every Province had a half mile track and many staged annual race days ,often held in conjunction with the Fall Fair .This photo was taken at Tillsonburg Ontario the scene of many hotly contested races over the years . The range of ages of the spectators was fairly wide as evidenced by the two small youngsters at the bottom of this photo .
In these bygone days, not only the finish but the entire race was under the jurisdiction of the folks pictured in the judge's stand . Certain individuals were assigned to watch for interference or other rule violations and most importantly they had to have a keen eye to try to properly place the horses at the finish wire .Traditionally judges were available from the local "horse" population, but also a small group of judges traveled about their home territory offering their expertise based on years of experience and fairness .So much of the sport depended on a group of "unsung" people who loved the sport so much that they annually volunteered their time and energy to see that good quality racing was the order of the day as often as possible . Suffice is to say that no one did it for financial gain .
Today, even those people who have gone on to stardom and reached financial security through the modern day version of the sport remember these "matinées" as they were sometimes called with a deep and abiding fondness .
From The Scrapbook - Clint Hodgins
October 10, 2011
The horse is Now and driver Clint Hodgins in front of a packed house at Stratford in 1954
Despite his rise to National prominence in the sport, the great Canadian horseman Clint Hodgins never forgot his roots . Although he moved to the U.S. and presided over a huge public stable,driving and training a large contingent of all types of horses, he was not above returning "home" to help promote the sport . This photograph was taken August 2,1954 at the old now defunct Stratford Track as he participated in that year's Civic Holiday races hosted by his good friend Dave Pinkney .He is shown with race winner Now owned by Mr. Pinkney and Robert Hales of Chatham Ont. .Now, a 6 year old son of Chief Abbedale ,won 12 races during this season racing mainly in the stable of Vic Lutman .
It is interesting to note the vast difference in driving styles portrayed by Hodgins as compared with today's top drivers .Clint and for that matter most of his contemporaries, sat "tall" and erect in the sulky as opposed to most of today's drivers who lay way back and have the hand holds set far back . I was always told that the old driving style was a reflection of being poised and ready as by sitting straight up a driver had a clear and immediate view of all of the important angles that needed to be in sight .
I suspect that the old rule ... "whatever works " applies .
From The Scrapbook - Strathroy Judges Stand
September 29, 2011
Strathroy Judges Stand - 1940's
In the old days of racing the Judge's Stand as shown here was an important part of the sport and found in the infield at the wire of every track . Prior to the coming of the mobile starting gate, the Starter was positioned here and officiated over the start of each race . Additionally the timers,the announcer,placing judges and anyone involved with the officiating of the races was "perched" here .They were in plain view of everyone .
As time went on, Judges stands disappeared from the infield and a symbol of early racing was removed forever . Beginning with this era the Judges functioned out of view of the spectators as they moved to the top of the grandstand .
From The Scrapbook - Jack Herbert
September 26, 2011
Today's Scrapbook picture embodies some important people and stories . The pictured horse and driver are Bobby Herbert and driver Jack Herbert .It was taken in 1951 at Thorncliffe Park in Toronto following a victory by the then two year old .As a freshman, Bobby Herbert started four times and won all of his engagements en route to a mark of 2:10.4 and earnings of $ 768 for owners Wm. and Jack Herbert of London . This young chestnut son of Alpha Hal was later used as a sire and all of his offspring bore the "Belmont" title .
The picture was taken by the world class Toronto based photographer Michael Burns who passed away just last year after spending over 60 years taking great photographs of both Standardbred and Thoroughbred performers .The hand scripted lettering on the photo was found on many of Michael Burns offerings of this era .Apparently the person who did this beautiful script work lived less than a glamorous life style and was at times hard to locate as he moved frequently about a rather questionable neighborhood in the Jarvis Street area of downtown Toronto .Reportedly there were times when his "etchings" appeared on the wrong pictures but he was always willing to correct his errors and his work warranted a second chance .
New Feature -From The Scrapbook
September 16, 2011
This picture of the first starting gate used in Western Canada was taken at Virden Manitoba . Its owner and operator was Andy Foster of High River Alta. -Photo courtesy of Mervin Kirkness
I am going to begin showing some old pictures of drivers and other assorted photographs from my archives . Some may contain a short story or brief explanation depending on the subject . They will be displayed in a section called " From The Scrapbook" which is listed at the left side of the Welcome page and can be accessed by clicking on that heading .It is my hope that seeing some of these old photos will bring back some pleasant memories for the viewing audience .
