Create your own site

Jan.-Apr. 2013 Archives

Subscribe to our Newsletter
January 2013 Archives
 
The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of January 2013 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .
 
1. Clint Galbraith - A Rising Star 50 Years Ago
2. Welcoming In 1986
3. Horsemen Telling Stories
4. A New Name - 50 Years Ago
5. Race Days At Bothwell
6. Canadian Tattooing Begins
7. Adios Butler's Personal Tattoo
8. Jockey Club Publicity Dept. Recalled 
9. The O'Brien Awards & Joe O'Brien

Horsemen Telling Stories

January 9, 2013
Above photo shows famed Ohio horseman Howard Beissinger (in the blue silks) standing with his back to the camera . Seated from left to right, Robert Walker, Stanley Dancer and Clint Hodgins . Mr. Beissinger is the winner of many great races, including 3 Hambletonians in a 10 year span 1969-1978. Take note of the stopwatch in his left hand . (Hoof Beats)
 

The great art of "Storytelling" is something that has been with us since the beginning of time . It is a universal means of teaching and thus learning ,and a great way of passing down valuable information ,like family folklore .While not all horsemen are storytellers and not all storytellers are horsemen ,the two similarities do often co-exist .I think there is something about the very nature of horse racing that makes it the perfect scenario for people entertaining others by relating their tales of bygone days .

 
This old photo taken quite a number of years ago shows a familiar scene . One person is standing and he would presumably be telling the story . The others either out of courtesy or interest, are eagerly listening . And then like many other times in life, we see a departure from the norm and something else is happening .
 
While I have no inside knowledge of what was actually occurring here, it appears as the moral of the story is if your name happens to be Clint Hodgins you are allowed to doze off because maybe you've heard this story before !!
January 10, 2013

50 Years Ago - Killean Name Becoming Popular 
A fairly new name in Canadian harness racing is beginning to emerge with more regularity as the "Killean" tag is being applied to a growing number of horses currently competing on both U.S. and Canadian tracks .This "new" breed of pacers are being introduced by the McNiven Brothers ,Jack and Don of Ingersoll Ont. Their nursery seems to be turning out some pretty good performers, and their future plans call for an even larger operation  .
 
In last year's 1962 summaries, a few of the Killean horses that raced successfully are listed below with their owners names and also their season's record .
 
Frisco Killean - A three year old owned by Killean Acres took a record of 2:08.2 over the Batavia half mile track with 22 year old Wm. Wellwood at the helm . In 16 starts during 1962, he earned $ 1,071 .
 
Chief Killean - This now 5 year old gelding took a mark of 2:09.4 at three and is currently racing for the partnership of Vern Evans of Brantford and Cecil Coke of Petrolia . Cecil does the training and driving .
 
Keystone Killean - This Keystoner sired colt now three is owned by Chas. Burrison of Harwood Ont. and in 23 season's starts he won two races driven by Carman Hie. At two he took a record of 2:08.4  .
 
Byrd Killean - Now a 4 year old, this horse had a very productive campaign for the same ownership as above and Mr. Burrison had the pleasure of 12 trips to the winner's circle in 1962 out of 28 starts .In the process he took a new record of 2:12.1 at Connaught Park and added over  $2500 to his lifetime bank account . Osler Burrison is the regular pilot .
 
Reportedly an up and coming colt named Nibble Killean may add to this farm's successful performers shortly .
 
Undoubtedly this name will be a factor in racing circles down the road .

Race Days At Bothwell

January 11, 2013
Shown above is a "scorecard" from the 1964 Races held at Victoria Park in Bothwell Ont. These old pieces of history are always quite interesting to see. On this card ,although not shown, are the names of no less than 65 sponsors or advertisers who purchased a "spot" to help the cause .
 

In days gone by, the small town racing groups played a major role in keeping the sport alive at the local grass roots level .These groups went by various names such as "Turf Club" , "Driving Club" ,and so on . The management of these organizations were most often comprised of volunteer people who loved racing and being around the local racetracks .Undoubtedly there was little or no financial motive as in those days people did things for the sheer joy of doing them ,not for pay. 

 
Their first and most important duty was to organize the races on one or more race days each season .On the actual day the races were held ,additional people came on site to oversee the races but the local folks did a lot of the "leg work" . One of the highlights of each year in most "clubs" was the annual banquet or gathering to honour the locals and just have an evening of dining and socializing .Not unlike other organizations ,often a guest speaker was invited to add a further dimension to the gathering and to address those assembled .These get togethers were usually held in the non racing season and they provided a time to visit,reminisce and enjoy being with friends and those who loved harness racing .
 
I recently received an old newspaper clipping from 1963 that described that year's Bothwell Community  Driving Club banquet .I would like to thank veteran horseman Glen Tiffin of Dresden for supplying this interesting piece .Because of the quality of the clipping and taking into account that some 50 years have passed, I hope it can be read without difficulty . It is interesting to note as so often happens, that many people mentioned in the write up are either still with us or are remembered through remaining family members .
 
Your comments are always welcome at oldrecollections@gmail.com
 
The newspaper clipping appears below .
 
With the Bothwell judges stand in the background ,driver Glen Tiffin drives Miss Lady M Chief to victory, partially obscuring the "Pepsi" advertising sign . This 4 year old mare won 12 races during the 1962 season for owner Bob McFadden of Tupperville Ont. but her total earnings  failed to reach the $1,000 mark .While the purses were small , the enthusiasm was enormous .

Canadian Tattooing Program Starts - 1961

January 14, 2013
The above photo from 1961 shows Bernard McEnaney (left), horseman Dale Dufty (centre) and Murray Graham Bridges (right) as the horse Little Johnny Can receives a lip tattoo at London's Western Fair Raceway .The horse's owner was Roy Inch of St. Thomas Ont. .[ LFP photo]
 
The practice of tattooing horses dates back a little over 50 years ago to 1961 .It was first introduced in the U.S. a couple of years previous to this time to give positive identification to harness horses as a precautionary measure to guard against the use of "ringers" which is a term used to describe the substitution of one horse for another . In the old days of racing, it apparently happened with some regularity ,especially when a horse came in from a "foreign" jurisdiction .This set up made any improper "juggling" of horses almost impossible .
 
In 1961, the practice of tattooing was adopted by Canadian authorities and a crew of technicians started at Old Woodbine in Toronto and eventually went out to various locations to begin the huge task of tattooing each horse . The first such crew consisted of three men, Bernard McEnaney and Murray Graham Bridges both representing the O.R.C. while J Harry Dunlop the third person acted on behalf of the Canadian Trotting Association .At this time, Ontario was  only the province to adopt this system but eventually all of the others followed suit .While its primary aim was to provide a safeguard for the public, it also soon became a useful tool when horses crossed the border as well as numerous other functions aiding in a horse's identification .
 
Once a horse was tattooed and the proper documents were completed including a picture of the tattoo, they were placed on file at the CTA office in Toronto. Then periodically the same data was sent to the U.S.T.A . headquarters. Thus began a major step in the identification of horses beyond a simple registration .

 Tattooing Crew Visits Western Fair Raceway -London 

When the crew arrived at WFR a few questions were posed regarding the safety and well being of the horse following tattooing . This fear was quickly dispelled as a number of horses went out and won a race on  the same day as they were tattooed .The actual process was very simple and probably fairly painless .It involved using an iron bar twitch ,resulting in very little discomfort as the tattoo was placed on the animal's upper lip. One stipulation was that horses under the age of two were not tattooed because their lip tissue had not yet matured . A number of well known owners based in London had their entire stables done immediately ,even those not currently racing . Some of the owners who made this decision included Dr. L.E. Haryett, Alex Parsons, Dr. A.G. Morris, and Clayton Brock .
 This is an early example of the technical advances that made their way into the sport as it embraced a huge time of growth from around 1960 onward .

Jockey Club Publicity Dept. Recalled

January 18, 2013
Shown above is an attractive cover of the publication "Harness Horse Happenings" a once popular item produced by The Ontario Jockey Club Publicity Dept. . This particular shot is from an issue dated October 1969 and shows the horse MERRYWOOD BABS in a restful pose .This horse was owned by The Merrywood Stable  (Mr. & Mrs. Eric McIlroy) and was trained and driven by Don Larkin who was a long time fixture at the Merrywood Farm located just at the edge of Grand Bend Ont. .
 

Looking Back to the era around the late 1960's, The Ontario Jockey Club as it was then known was a pretty potent force in the world of harness racing.They attracted the best racing talent around both in terms of horses and also those who owned,trained and drove horses as a livelihood .Their presence was well known around the globe and the stature they enjoyed was well deserved .

 
The O.J.C. also had some pretty talented and well organized people "running the show", many behind the scenes . One area that I want to highlight today is the O.J.C. Publicity Department as it was then called .Their duty was to promote,organize and in short "sell" the racing product to the general public . Their aim was to try  to hold the audience that already existed and also to attempt to drum up novel ways of attracting new customers who would eventually swell the fan base and even bring others on board through their word of mouth.The folks who worked in this area were truly dedicated to their work and enjoyed mingling with the many different people who were involved with the sport, both on and off the track .
 
One important albeit small "tool" the publicity personnel used back then was a small  publication called "Harness Horse Happenings " .It was a regularly printed publication that was available through the mail . One of its biggest selling features in addition to being "darned good" , was that it was FREE !!  .What more could anyone ask for ??? Once on the mailing list which came about by sending in a form, a "subscriber" could expect to receive these extremely well prepared and informative books whenever a new issue came out . As a matter of interest,in 1968 the postage stamp required to transmit a copy within Canada amounted to 3 Cents !! . I guess things have changed just slightly .
 
A short list of the actual personalities involved will probably bring back more than a few fond memories of the great people who so eloquently chronicled the sport as it then existed . Here are a few names associated with this time period . Bill Galvin (Editor) ,Trent Frayne, Jim Lampman ,Norm Defelice, Ralph Hubbell, Ursula Pidgeon .
 
Backstretch Beat by Bill Galvin
 
My thanks to Mr. Bill Galvin for his assistance and encouragement in supplying so much useful information .Mr. Galvin possesses a unique perspective on the sport and has served in more capacities than I can list .A native of the Ottawa Valley, which is great horse Country indeed, he gained his early interest in harness racing through another "Valley" native Dr. John Findley . Early in his career, Bill worked as a groom for noted yesteryear horseman Floyd Milton .
 
Rather than me try to deliver any further explanation about this publication's contents,  I think it would be much more helpful to reproduce an edition of the  ongoing feature named "Backstretch Beat" as it appeared back then .This was from July 1970 .Bear in mind this was just a small "snippet" from one issue . Enjoy the reading .......
February 2013 Archives
 
The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of February 2013 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .
 
1. - Before The O'Brien's
2. - Remembering Wm. Wellwood
3. - Dufferin Park 3 Horse Match Race
4. - Hon. Earl Rowe Remembered
5. - More On Hon. Earl Rowe
6. - Star Weekly - Bud Gilmour
7. - Elmira Season Closes -1983
8. - London Free Press 100 th Anniversary
February 1, 2013
Before The O'Briens 
 

For the next short while I am going to display some "older" photographs taken at awards night celebrations prior to the now famous "O'Brien" awards that have become the most prestigious in the sport . In years past it was customary for several bodies to give out annual awards . Such organizations as The C.T.A. (Canadian Trotting Assoc.) ,C.S.H.S. (Can. Standardbred Horse Society) and later the O.H.H.A . (Ont. Harness Horsemen's Assoc.) all gave out awards . At times the award ceremonies were held together .
The first time the O'Brien Awards were presented was January 1990 .From this time on the multiple awards were discontinued .
I will be adding new photos at the top of the page and leaving the older ones on ,so if you miss any you can just scroll down the page to view those previously posted . The years and categories will be varied and also may include some pictures from other smaller track's award nights .
 
 1984 - Harry Eisen and his wife Maxine are recipients of two special awards for his long time dedication to reporting the happenings of Harness Racing. Eisen who worked for many years with the London Free Press receives an award as "Citizen Of The Year" presented by Gordon Sherwin(far right) representing O.H.H.A . .He also received the CTA Media award .
 
1984 -Harold Thompson Special Events Co-ordinator of The Rothmans Co. (centre) presents an award to Eileen and Bill Stuart of Ilderton .Their filly Segriff won the trophy as the top of her class as a three year old trotting filly in 1983 .
1990 -Mark Etsell needed three victories on the closing day of the 1989 season at Elmira to take home the award for top percentage trainer ending with an average of .4619 . Assistant Race Secretary Althea Peddle does the presenting to Mark .
 
1984 -Dr. Rolly Armitage representing the CTA presents a silver tray to John Kopas a multiple award winner on this evening .This award was captured by Armbro Bramble 3 year old pacing filly who was honoured by both the OJC and the CTA for her 1983 accomplishments .
 
Elmira Awards 1990 - Track announcer Ken Middleton Jr. (left) presents the leading driver award to Brian Holmes who steered the winners of 44 races  during the 1989 season .
 
1990 - C.T.A. Field Rep. Jane Belore is shown presenting the award for the top dash winning trainer to Bob Ellis who recorded 17 wins during the 1989 season. This marked the second year in a row for the young Ellis winning this title .Breezin Babe ,a member of his stable scored 10 wins in 17 starts and in the process dominated the $4-5,000 claimers .
 
Jan. 1984 - Ron Waples centre accepts an award for "Horseman of the Year" from Beverly Smith Globe & Mail writer .On the right is Ed Bradley of the Ontario Jockey Club .Waples made an uncustomary speech prior to acceptance and thanked Mr. Bradley for his encouragement over the years .Young "Ronnie" who turned 40 in 1984 received this award from both the OJC and the CTA .
 
 
Jan 1984 - Fred Hoffman is presented with the OJC "Trainer of the Year" award by OJC Racing Secretary Barry Hewson .
 
 
 

Remembering 10 Years Ago - Wm. Wellwood

February 4, 2013
Photo - Sept. 4,1986 - Members of The Wellwood Stable celebrate the victory of RIDE THE WAVE an outstanding 2 Year Old trotting colt who had just won The $122,460 Champlain Stakes at Mohawk to kick off Grand Circuit Week . Pictured from left to right -  Lenore Armstrong ,Paula Wellwood,Wm. Wellwood,Jean Wellwood, Tim Twaddle and Charlie Armstrong (holding the lamp) who co-owned the colt with Wellwood Stables. This marked  the 7th win in a row for the son of Balanced Image -Hurricane Honey and established his supremacy for age and gait that season .A 2:01 clocking set a new lifetime record for RTW . (Smiley Photo)
 

Ten Years Ago this week, Canadian Harness Racing lost one of its best known and most successful practitioners with the passing of William Wellwood .He was just 62 years of age and had been a very active participant in all phases of the sport until just prior to his death  .His departure on February 3,2003 saddened many including this writer who had known him for all of his years in the sport .

 
William had spent nearly 50 years in the world of harness racing ,having joined his Uncle Harold Wellwood's stable as a groom back in 1957 when he graduated from High School . He apprenticed with his uncle for a number of years which was the path followed back then . In 1966 he opened his own public stable and within a relatively short time, established himself as a top horseman in every regard .He not only operated a large public stable ,he also purchased and developed stock under his personal ownership as well as with partners .In time, his record of producing outstanding colt performers was added to his list of accomplishments .While not the typical perfectionist, he strived to be the best at whatever he did .Despite his personal successes, he always worked for the betterment of the sport and the people who worked in it .He was truly a "grinder" ,a man who worked very hard for everything he ever got in life .
 
Bill not only developed top equine performers he also trained numerous horsemen in his well rounded stable . Many individuals who went on to long and successful careers in the sport studied under his watchful eye . A few names such as Bill O'Donnell , Tom Artandi , Ben Wallace, Fred Tracey, Barry Drury, Norm McKnight Jr., John Pentland,Andy Avery and others are alumni of the Wellwood operation . As he lessened his driving activities in later years he handed those chores over to a few others including especially Paul MacDonell who handled a number of the stables top achievers as did Ross Battin. Yet another long time contributor to the Wellwood successes was veteran horseman Ken Carmichael .
 
Will added a lot to the "game" of Harness Racing ,none the least of which was "colour" . He was a story teller ,a man who had definite opinions and was anything but shy in sharing them . We often talked about the "old days" and he loved to reminisce about the early days of his driving career at the then Old Woodbine which later became Greenwood . I will forever remember his laugh and his smile and above all else the way he treated me .
 
As an ongoing tribute to the late Wm. Wellwood, a Stake for 2 Year Old trotters is named in his honour and raced annually on the WEG Circuit .This year the Final will be staged on September 14 . His family continue to race horses and perpetuate one of the oldest and most respected names in Canadian Harness Racing history . His memory continues ......

Dufferin Has 3 Horse Match Race - 1947

February 7, 2013

Race organizers at Dufferin Park in Toronto continue to come up with new and interesting ways of entertaining their fans .

 
On the January 25th ,1947 afternoon card a rather unique 3 horse Match Race was staged .While Match Races are somewhat rare they are usually staged between just 2 horses .On this day it was billed as a 3 Horse Match Race. The race which carried a purse of $250 featured 3 horses that had all campaigned successfully at the current Dufferin meeting which started last November .The winner of this special race was Sir Peter M. a bay gelding owned by noted sportsman C.B. Lawrence of Durham Ontario and driven by Cliff "Chappy' Chapman .The results are shown below :
 
Sir Peter M. Wins 3 Horse Match Race - Official Results 
 
Sir Peter M         1-1-2
Chief Siskiyou     2-2-1
Daisy Grattan F   3-3-3
 
Times : Ist Heat    - 2:21
             2nd Heat - 2:22
             3rd Heat  - 2:22 1/2

Elmira Season Ends - 1983

February 18, 2013

Organizers at Elmira Raceway used their final day of racing to good advantage and following the matinee card on Saturday November 19, 1983, an awards night dinner and dance was held . An approximate crowd of 300 horsemen,employees and racing fans joined in to pay tribute to the year's outstanding performers .It was a great evening of dining,dancing,reminiscing and the sharing of a memorable time .

 
Ross Battin Wins All Driving Categories
Photo shows horseman Ross Battin of Monkton Ont. who made a clean sweep of all driving categories during the 1983 season at Elmira Raceway. 
 
Topping the list of honorees was not a horse but rather a horseman . A young 29 year old driver from Monkton Ont. named Ross Battin made a clean sweep of all categories and in most cases won by the widest of margins over his closest competitors .The busy man who combines dairy farming with racing a large number of horses had 377 drives over the 50 date season which amounts to about 7 1/2 entrants per program . He led all drivers in races won as well as UDRS   standings. Battin entered the winner's circle 83 times along with 61 second place finishes and 68 thirds .His driving average of .370 edged out Mike Schaefer who had .363 and George Henry at .336 .In the race for dashes won, his closest competitor was Bill Lambertus with 40 wins and George Henry who had 30 .To the surprise of no one, Ross also earned over $69,000 to complete the sweep of the purses won category . A pretty good showing for "The Battin Boy "  which coincidentally was the name of a horse once raced by the man of the same name .It is perhaps appropriate for someone from the Perth County village of Monkton to be involved with horses as reportedly the first building ever erected there was a Blacksmith shop way back in 1857 .
 
Earlier in the season on Labour Day weekend, a Barbecue was hosted by Elmira Raceway,Molson's Breweries and Seagram's Distilleries as the summer portion of the racing season ended and the fall session began .
 
Summary Of Other Categories 
  • Horse Of The Year - Sean Hanover Owned by Ben Shain & George Henry 
  • Pacer Of The Year - Blazing Shot Owned by Larry Jeffrey
  • Claimer of The Year - Waving Carol Owned by Wayne Beitz
  • 1983 Bill Oehring Memorial Race - Won by Wilvan Duke (Dr. Jack Radcliffe) Owned by Ted Clarke
MOLSONS CUP PACING Series Winners :
 
Words Of Wisdom (Dennis Duke)
Duff's Duke ( Dale Dufty)
*Count Mike ( Chas. Lawson ,Bill Megens,Bill Lambertus )
*Series winner with 3 different drivers for owner Wayne Carleton 

London Free Press 100th Anniversary -1949

February 22, 2013
The above photo was taken at the Strathroy Dominion Day Races on July 1,1949 .Tom Yearley of Crediton Ont. ,owner of Amber Grattan 2nd was presented with a commemorative blanket by The London Free Press  .The driver is Lloyd Turvey of Exeter . This remarkable  horse won 49 races that season .(LF Press photo)
 
Back in 1949 The London Free Press celebrated their 100th Anniversary of publication . From the earliest years, they were always known for their great coverage of the sport of Harness Racing .During this Year long celebration, their representatives visited several local tracks and presented beautifully lettered coolers to winners of their sponsored races .I have included the picture of one such event today taken at the great racing town of Strathroy  .
 
For many years the great writer and columnist Jack Parks covered harness racing on the London Free Press sport pages .He took a keen interest in the sport and frequently travelled to small Town race meets to take in the races .Most often pictures and his observations appeared in the paper's pages the following day as well as the results .Many people cut out his articles and archived them in scrap books or simply stored them away as mementos of days gone by .Following in Mr. Park's footsteps was Harry Eisen , who for decades kept Free Press readers up to date on happenings in the world of Canadian Harness Racing .
 
As part of the Free Press special Editorials that year of 1949, Mr. Parks wrote a very comprehensive story about the then sport of harness racing and its rising popularity focusing mainly on Ontario .He listed the names of many of the people involved in building the sport at that time ,and also gave special credit to the small town race organizers that helped to keep the sport a popular pastime .His story appeared in the Saturday June 11,1949 edition under the heading "Enthusiastic Crowd Follows Trotting And Pacing Events ".
 
 I happen to have a very yellowed copy of that now vintage commentary but its quality is such that I cannot properly reproduce it in its entirety .A very old picture of a legendary Canadian Grey horse "THE EEL" a foal of 1902 who is described as "Handsomest Horse In The World " appeared as part of the story and I have shown it below .
 
 
The first part of his article reads as follows ....
 
"IF YOU TELL a baseball man or a hockey promoter that harness racing is Western Ontario's major sport ,you will run into quite an argument , but you would not be far off the mark .Springing from a humble start close to 100 years ago the sport of the trotters and pacers now commands one of the largest and easily the most enthusiastic followings in this section of the Province .
 
Once the "national" sport of the rural population, the harness racing game now counts among its most rabid followers men and women from all walks of life .The breeding end of the game ,once exclusively in the hands of farmers, now embraces doctors,lawyers,butchers,bakers,manufacturers and hotel men .
 
Oh my how things change ......


March 2013 Archives

March 2013 Archives
 
The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of March 2013 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .
 
1.- Stan Bergstein "On The Record"
2. - Remembering The Provincial Cup
3. - A Nice Note From Bill Galvin
4. - Carpet Bagger "Winning Tired"
5. - Happy St Patricks Day
6. - Jerry Hal - "Off to a Fast Start"
7. - The Overnight Sheet
8. - Looking Back at 28 Years Ago
9. - Gordie Howe Turns 85
10. - Easter Greetings

Bill Galvin's Note

March 8, 2013
 
 
I recently received a very nice letter from Bill Galvin ,a gentleman who is well known throughout the world of racing and one of the few people to combine a lifetime interest and expertise in both standardbreds and thoroughbreds  .With his permission I have reprinted his very thoughtful note below and I thank him for taking the time to be in touch .
In the photo above Bill offers  greetings to Herve Filion on the occasion of the famous driver's 29th Birthday on Feb. 1,1969 in the Greenwood paddock .
 
Dear Robert:
         Thanks for the Memories!!
       Your excellent piece on remembering the Provincial Cup, Stan Bergstein, George Rattenbury and Harry Eisen was special to me.
        My good friend, Fran Smith was the longtime publicity director at Windsor Raceway. I attended its opening and many Provincial Cups. 
 
       Bill Rowe was a fine gentleman. I spent many afternoons at his farm in Newton Robinson discussing the state of horse racing at the time .
 
       I remember Stan Bergstein first calling the races at Maywood Park. I worked for Floyd Millton at the time. Stan and I were members of the North American Publicists for many years. He was always was a big booster of my work, and many years ago, when I was just starting out in OJC publicity, he recommended me for the publicity job at Rockingham Park, a  job I eventually turned down.
 
      Your mentioning George Rattenbury brought back some great memories. When I was attending Wayne State University in Detroit I always worked nights  taking horses to the paddock  at Hazel Park, or the Detroit Race Course.  I paddocked many horses for George Rattenbury. He always had a modest stable run by himself and his wife (I think her name was Florence - a nice woman).   One cold November night I had a horse in a late race for George and by the time that I had put my horse away, the buses had stopped running, and I ended up sleeping under the shedrow on on three bales of straw with plenty of horse coolers.
We all remember Harry Eisen. Harry consistently  did a great job reporting on Harness racing  over the years in the London Free Press.
 
Keep up the wonderful and important  work you are doing.
 
bill
 

Jerry Hal -Off To A "Fast" Start in 1965

March 19, 2013
Above photo shows owner John Langford of Chatham Ont. with his prized colt pacer JERRY HAL in a 1965 pose .
 

As recently as 1965, the racing season was much shorter that we have come to expect in the years that followed . By mid March of 1965, the sport was still awaiting the first 2:00 mile of the season .A mile in 2:00 or less ? so what was the big deal about that ? At this time two minute speed in the sport and especially in Canada was pretty new .It was not until 1967 that a 2:00 mile was logged in Ontario when Good Time Boy and driver Jimmy Larente stopped the Greenwood timer in 1:59.4 .

 
According to many so called experts, a Canadian owned and bred horse named JERRY HAL was the most likely to eclipse that elusive barrier in early 1965 .The then 3 year old chestnut son of Honest Jerry out of the Alpha Hal mare Miss Beverly Hal was the "talk" of the racing world despite his somewhat limited racing experience. This young speedster was the property of Langford Farms of Chatham Ont. and was racing out of the stable of James "Roach" Mac Gregor , a Canadian Maritime driver of note who had handled him in all of his 3 year old starts up to this point. The Langfords, John and his wife Audrey, really enjoyed their horses; and while they operated a large Transport Company to make a living ,they derived their "off work" enjoyment from following their stable stars .Their trophy collection showed that they had owned some pretty nice performers .
 
Undefeated as a Two Year Old in 1964
Following a relatively short but highly successful two year old campaign that saw him win all of his 7 starts, Jerry Hal continued his winning ways into his sophomore season .His 7 wins at two ,which were mainly overnight events at the Metropolitan Michigan tracks, netted his owners just under  $3000 .Undoubtedly the highlight of his first season was a two heat win at Dresden in the annual colt stake .The Dresden race carried a purse of $2,000 and the joy of winning close to home .A total of 21 colts and fillies were divided into two divisions and the Langford colt turned in the fastest time of 2:08 and change to take top honours with Gordon Fraser driving  .
 
Racing at Pompano Park
 
Jerry Hal Paces to victory at Pompano Park
 
His 1965 season actually started on December 31,1964 at Pompano Park in Florida where he won his final start as a 2 year old in the record time of 2:03 .From here, the wins continued to come .On the evening of March 17 everyone at Pompano Park believed they were about to witness the season's first 2:00 mile .While it was a close encounter with the elusive barrier , Jerry Hal turned in a magnificent mile but fell just short .MacGregor took the blazed faced colt to the front just past the quarter-mile pole and from there it was clear sailing .Following a half mile in 1:01.4 his lead lengthened with a 5 length advantage at the head of the stretch which was widened to 11 1/4 at the wire . His mile time of 2:00 2/5 made it 11 victories in a row and as yet he was undefeated . 
 
At this point his connections were somewhat disappointed that he was not eligible for the top 3 year old events on the U.S. side . MacGregor stated " He has surprised all of us ,we never dreamed he'd be capable of competing in any triple crown events so he was never nominated" ,but he is well staked .
 
While the mile was the fastest of that young season to that point, it fell just short of the 2:00 mark . I have no idea of what horse did score the first "miracle mile" in 1965 but it was not Jerry Hal .Though he would experience a highly successful 3 year old campaign, this would stand as his season's best clocking .
 
I plan to do another piece about Jerry Hal in a few months when he makes a triumphant return to race in Canada later in 1965 .

The "Official Entry Sheet"

March 22, 2013

 Today's pictured item (shown below)is not exactly a "collector's item" but it probably does qualify as an item of interest and certainly an oddity . I didn't think that I would ever marvel at the sight of a piece of paper with typewritten words on it and think of it as anything but commonplace . With the introduction of computers, we have almost completely forgotten about how important and essential a typewriter once was . How quickly we forget ....

 
At one time ,in fact not many years ago ,the " Official Entry Sheet" at any racetrack was a very important piece of daily information . As soon as the positions were drawn the sheet was typed and set out in the Race Secretary's office ready for pick up .
 
The sheet I have reproduced is from Buffalo Raceway and is now well over 50 years old .At this time, a large number of Canadian stables were headquartered at the Buffalo track as evidenced by the entries .It is interesting to note that both the Invitational Trot and Pace were heavily represented by Canadian owned and driven horses . While the results are not shown here I can report that both feature races on this weekend were won by Canadian entries . The Trot was won on Friday evening by Helen Brooke K (not shown here) and the Pace was won by Captain Wright .Four of the seven starters in the $5000 featured Invitational Pace were Canadian owned .
 
Among the entries were the following Canadian horsemen who were all perennial participants at the border oval .Ed Arthur ,Clint Galbraith, Bill Gardner,Bud Gilmour,Joe Hodgins,Jack Mehlenbacher,Hughie McLean,Harold McKinley,Harold Wellwood ,Wm. Wellwood 
 
As a matter of interest the winner of the 5th race was Royal Aileen driven by a then 19 year old Wm. Wellwood who was driving in about his third lifetime start .My thanks to Glen Tiffin for this interesting piece of memorabilia .

Looking Back at 1985 - 28 Years Ago

March 24, 2013
A variety of events and personalities from 1985 are featured as this edition of "Recollections" takes a look back to 28 years ago ,a glimpse of the rather recent past .
 
 
Twin B Playboy was a most dominant performer in O.S.S. action all season long in 1985 and is shown here with Dave Wall driving
 
 
Grand Nader trots home a winner over Odd Bowl during 1985 O.S.S. action in late season at Mohawk with Charlie Lawson aboard .
 
O.S.S. Highlights
  • This was the 12 th year of O.S.S. competition and most successful to date
  • In 1985, 89 Ontario sired 2 and 3 year olds earned over $25,000 exclusively in Sires Stakes action
  • Six participants earned over $100,000 (4 trotters,2 pacers)
  • Cranberry Hill 3 YO filly trotter led all OSS entrants in earnings at $118,859 (OSS only)
  • Fastest mile in OSS by pacer Twin B Playboy 1:56 (5/8 ths) and 1:56.2 (1/2 mile)
  • Fastest mile by trotter Lou Macs Dream 3 YO colt 1:59.2
  • Fastest mile by 2 YO pacer - Ratso 1:59
  • Fastest mile by 2 YO trotter - Nadirs Pride 2:00.3
Major Events Of The Season
 
 
Wm. "Magic" O'Donnell had a career year scoring victories in both the Hambo and The Jug during 1985 (U.S.T.A. photo)
  • Staff Director (Dave Wall) wins Pepsi N.A. Cup in 1:55.2
  • On The Road Again takes Can. Pacing Derby in 1:55.3 for Bud Gilmour
  • Falcon Seelster victorious in Provincial Cup at Windsor
  • Staff Director wins $35,00 Labatt's Pace at London in 1:57.4 trained and driven by Dave Wall
  • Brees Brief wins Fan Hanover in 1:55.4 for Doug Brown and trainer Stew Firlotte
  • Manfred Hanover wins Maple Leaf Trot in 1:58.1
  • Nihilator driven by Wm O'Donnell captures The Little Brown Jug ,fastest heat in 1:52.1
  • What's Next wins Confederation Cup after Armbro Dallas is disqualified
  • Prakas takes Hambeltonian in record time of 1:54.3 for Bill O'Donnell
  • B Track Happenings
  • Barrie -Much of the season was obliterated when a tornado swept through on May 31 and closed the Raceway for over 4 months . It reopened on Oct. 16
  • Clinton - 14 dates of racing were held .Ross Battin was the dash winning leader with 20 wins,beating out Fred Sadler and John Muir .Wayne Dupee won the percentage crown. Top trainer award was shared by Dupee and Paul Taylor .The Fleming Feed Mill Invitational was won by Springbank owned by Harvey and Nadia Neff of Delaware .
  • Dresden - Average wagering  was $105,146 .The Canada Day Pace went to Action Seelster driven by Doug McIntosh and D A Dariel for Dennis Duford .John Campbell won the $6000 Shelly Goudreau Memorial in front of 3000 fans with Split Image owned by The Lawrence family of Blenheim .Ken Quirie was leading dash winner with 64 wins over Terry Kerr's 57 victories .
  • Elmira - Ross Battin won his fifth straight driver's title with 59 wins over Brian Dunbar (37) and Dave Duncan (34) .Terry Newman led all trainers with 32 wins . Nadirs Pride made a winning visit taking the Trillium Trot despite making a break and having to make up 20 lengths .Bills Bunny was voted Pacer of the Year .
  • Goderich - Several "give away" nights were held with race winners receiving either a halter or a cooler donated by local merchants . The Ron Feagan Memorial was a feature of August 29 and Springbank was the winner under the urging of Fred Sadler .Ross Battin led all drivers in wins while Randy McLean took the trainer award as he won 7 races from 31 tries .The top percentage teamster was Clarence Young with a .528 average .
  • Hanover - Gerald Sloan drove in 208 races making him the busiest driver by far and he made the best of it . He won the dash title with 52 victories .Paul Walker and Mark Etsell were a distant second tied at 25 wins each .Rosies Glory won the Allan Walker Memorial driven by Bud Fritz
  • Kingston Park - This eastern track saw its first $100,000 mutuel handle in history when 4 OSS events attract a huge crowd that wagered $ 117,033 .KP drivers prevailed over Rideau Carleton with Sam Mullholland and Chris Storms finishing 1-2 in the competition .A rarity occurred when TJ Taxi a 2 year old was involved in a dead heat for win twice within 3 days
  • Orangeville - Lloyd Spinks led all drivers with 135 wins .The track celebrated its 15th anniversary and held the Waples Family reunion with 6 members driving .Kyleakin Lass with Robert Walker driving won the Dr. Riddell Memorial . Wagering and attendance was up 15% from 1984
  • Leamington - Mark Williams was the leading dash winner with 47 victories .Five new track records were set including a 1:59.1 mile by Soccer driven by Mike Jarvis .The stable of Pat and Darlene Kelly led the training department with 37 wins
  • Woodstock - Rod Roblee led in both driving and training wins,followed by Fred Sadler and Ross Battin .Barry Graham won the UDRS award,beating out Alan Morrison . Annie Ivy won the $3500 Labatt's Invitational over Dovers Fancy and Roger B Quick on the final day of the season .
 
Fuchsia in rein to Larry Walker shows the form that earned her the honor of OJC Aged Trotting Mare
 
Other Highlights of the 1985 Season
  • Brees Brief (Doug Brown) wins OJC Harness horse of the year ,On The Road Again second
  • Dave Wall 38, selected as OJC horseman of the year,over Steve Condren,Doug Brown
  • Bill Robinson named top non driving trainer over Bob McIntosh and Fred Hoffman
  • Herve Filion records his 9000th career victory in January of 1985
  • Glen Garnsey 52 is killed in an auto accident
  • Jerald Sulkies can be purchased in Canada from Larry & Colleen Gibbons at McIntosh Tack
  • Me Gotta Bret a $3900 yearling purchase nears $100 M career at Northlands
  • Hy Class Minbar rewrites the record book for Western breds winning $339,183
  • Nihilator sets 1:49.3 world record on Hambo day for Bill O'Donnell
  • Bridger two time Maple leaf Trot winner is retired in ceremonies at Greenwood
  • Staff Director 1:55 named OJC 3 YO pacing colt of the year
  • Canada's nominee to International Trot General D Brook has to be euthanized
  • Lloyd Gilmour records his 2000th career win at Vernon Downs in May
  • Fuchsia is voted OJC Aged Trotting Mare .Owned by Barb Lennox and Don Lawson,trained and driven by Larry Walker ,groomed by Keith Klages
  • The Christmas Issue of The Standardbred Magazine carried a feature article on the long and interesting life of Duncan Campbell who at the time was 85 years young
Popular  Sires Standing in Ontario
  • (This list is alphabetical , not based on performance or service fee )
  • Armbro Splurge -$3000
  • Coal Harbor - $3000
  • Dallas Almahurst -$ 2500
  • Dream Of Glory - $7500
  • Fundamentalist - $3000
  • Kawartha Skipper - $3500
  • League Leader - $2000
  • Legal Notice - $10,000
  • Rabbit Road -$2000
  • Springfield - $2500
  • Willow Wiper - $2500
  • Worthy Bowl - $3000

Gordie Howe Turns 85

March 30, 2013
Show above is my own personally autographed picture of Mr. Hockey - Gordie Howe #9
 

A few weeks ago I read that Gordie Howe, "Mr. Hockey" was turning 85 on March 31,2013 . So what does that have to do with a website that deals mainly with Harness Racing history and nostalgia ? Well I guess the short answer is "not much..."   But as so often happens, it made me think of a story that occupies a small but special spot in my memory bank .


The Era of "Hero Worship"
When I was growing up, I think we lived much more in an age of hero worship .Hockey players,Baseball players,Cowboys,Well respected people in one's community,even harness horse people ....take your pick . Starting back in the late 40's my older brother and I sent away  Bee Hive Corn Syrup labels for Hockey Pictures . We hung them above our beds with thumb tacks .He collected Toronto Maple Leaf stars like Turk Broda and "Teeder" Kennedy and across the room above my bed hung pictures of those who wore "The Winged Wheel", members of the Detroit Red Wings .These old black and white pictures were available by mail order from 1934 thru 1967 and are quite collectable today .
Above the Bee Hive collection was my favourite .It was a coloured picture of Gordie Howe .No it wasn't a big poster bought for me by my parents ; it was a page torn from an old copy of Sport magazine .I found a well used old black frame pretty close in size and there it hung for many years .Oddly enough although my personal copy faded into the wild blue yonder many years ago, I actually found the exact replica on the internet and it appears below .
 
Meeting Gordie Howe
Quite a few years ago ,(I would guess about 25 at least ) I read in the local paper that Gordie would be in our City to sign autographs .At the time he was allied with the Speedy Printing Company and so made public appearances on their behalf .His schedule  was published and stated that he would be at a few different locations during that particular day .Shortly before noon, I quietly left work for a slightly longer "lunch hour" than I usually took .My hope was that if ever I was confronted about my absence from work that my explanation would stand me in good stead .
 
As I entered the room where Gordie was signing autographs , a small but steady line of people came and went .Most just shook hands,exchanged pleasantries,accepted their autographed picture and left happy to have met a true legend .As the initial crowd lessened I approached the man who I had never seen any closer than on the ice at the venerable old Olympia Stadium . We began to chat and go over a few old stories . As people came in, I stepped back until he was again available .They all left but I stayed ....
 
Somehow I think close to an hour and a half passed all too quickly . We chatted as old friends might .He readily told a joke or two and was even "upset" in a good natured way when I told him what someone had said about him .Pierre Pilote an old Chicago Blackhawk once said he liked to shake hands with Gordie on the banquet circuit because it was the only time he ever got to see the inside of his elbow !! He said that !!!
 
I look back with fondness and respect for a time somewhat simpler than we know today ;a time when we all had our heroes and among mine (and still is ) was Gordie Howe . Happy Birthday !! and thanks for a life well lived and for being a great  role model for many , a man of class ........

Easter Greetings

March 30, 2013

Happy Easter To Everyone .......This year with a relatively early observance of Easter Sunday, we are supposed to have an early spring according to folk lore .So far it hasn't happened but maybe that is not all bad . Last year we were elated to have such beautiful spring weather so early in the year ,only to find that so many precious orchard crops were either ruined or almost wiped out .Catastrophes such as that we do not need !!

 
The observance of Easter is a wonderful way to start a new season .Experiencing the rebirth of everything living is a miracle in itself .To see buds emerge from previously dormant trees and shrubs is inspirational .The warmth of the sun and the greening of the landscape gives new hope once again .The birth of farm animals is always a special occurrence .I love to drive across the countryside and see the spring planting ;it brings back special memories .Hopefully that will be soon .
 
In the old days of racing there was seldom any racing yet at Easter but by that time the winter training season was over and some horses were being "turned" as they used to say as they were being trained the right way of the track and some speed was being asked for . 
 
I hope everyone enjoys their Easter season and many will observe it by gathering with loved ones this Sunday to savour  the many foods associated with this time of year  .
April 2013 Archives
 
The following items are listed below as they appeared on this website during the month of April 2013 . To view each item, simply scroll down the page and it will appear in the order shown .
 
1.- The Clubhouse Era Begins
2. - Congratulations To Hall Inductees
3. - Remembering Proximity & Clint Hodgins
4. - The First 5/8 Mile Track 
5. - Single Shaft Sulky Debuts 1970
6. - Thorncliffe Park Scheduled to Open
7. - Robert Stewart Remembered
8. - The Peninsula Stakes Begin

Congratulations To Hall Of Fame Inductees

April 9, 2013
I would like to offer my personal congratulations to ALL of the successful individuals who have been chosen as this year's Inductees into The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame .This is an honour above all others .I would also add a congratulatory message to all who were undoubtedly equally deserving but may have to wait for another time .Every person and every horse on the ballot is a winner regardless of the voting outcome . 
 
A New Category
 
I was pleased to see that a brand new designation was added to the list of honours this year .It is an area so richly deserving and carries the title of "Communicator Category" .
 
The very first winner in this new category for the Standardbred section is the late Doug Harkness who so capably covered the sport in the Maritimes for many decades .
 
I have chosen to display a couple of vintage photos connected with Maritime racing in the 1940's Again my thanks to Don Daniels for supplying these old Harness Horse gems .

Tracey Hanover, p, 2.03 (t, 2.10), by Sandy Flash, 3, 2.141/4, one of the top performers of the Maritime region, shown with John Scott, owner at head, and John Conroy the driver.

 Anti-Aircraft, p, 2.03, winner of the Old Home week free-for-all at Charlottetown, with Cobb Miller, driving.

Robert Stewart Remembered

April 24, 2013
Robert (Bob) Stewart long time Secretary Manager of the Canadian Standardbred Horse Society who passed away suddenly in March of 1987 (SC Files)
 
A little over 26 years ago the world of harness racing was shocked by the sudden death of Robert Stewart .At the time, he was the secretary and manager of The Canadian Standardbred Horse Society, a position he had held for close to 16 years  .Just 38 years of age at the time, he collapsed during a recreational hockey game on the evening of March 25,1987 and succumbed to a fatal heart attack . It was a sudden and sharp blow to all who knew him and also a reminder of how fragile life can be .His years in the sport and his impact on so many facets keep his memory alive despite the passage of time .
 
A native of Collingwood Ont. ,Bob was born into a "horse" environment which paved the way to his future involvement at many levels in Canadian harness racing . He took an early interest in his parent's Ray and Edna Stewart's horses, and by the time he was in his early teens he began training along with his father .They owned such horses as Spencers Pride C, Muddy Heel,Success Curl and Trivue .The Stewart horses raced at many local tracks and soon the young Robert became a licensed driver ,competing at such places as Owen Sound,Barrie and his home track at Collingwood .In time, his resume included being  licenced as a starter and an associate judge. Additionally, during the summer months he groomed horses at the larger Raceways for such well known horsemen as Pat Crowe and fellow Townsman Clarence Lockhart . Later on his own, he trained horses for Russ Irwin and Jack Smith who also hailed from his home area .
 
Following his local education in the Collingwood School System, Bob graduated from Toronto's Ryerson Polytechnical Institute majoring in Business Administration .He later attended and graduated from the Akron School of Business and was on the Dean's list each year .From here he began his career in the administrative area of the sport .Although his time in the sport preceded what might be considered the "Computer Era" ,he worked on many programs and procedures aimed at streamlining and enhancing the sport's record keeping systems .He was an eager learner and was always on the lookout for a better way to do things .He was also always one to help out others .
 
Among his proudest achievements was the fact that he was responsible for ensuring that the 3 horse sales held annually by the C.S.H.Society were among the best in North America .He was also a firm believer in establishing and maintaining programs such as blood typing and freeze branding to ensure proper identification from foaling onward .The arranging and conducting of the sales were clearly his passion .It was said of him "Bob wasn't just an administrator ; he was a good horseman who spoke the language of the horsemen. Above all, he was everybody's friend ...."
 
In addition to his work with the C.S.H.S. Robert was involved in his own right with the co-ownership of a number of accomplished horses through his Adanac Farms  that included such performers such performers as Happy Little B ,Mon Vieux and Saunders Alpine Lobell to mention a few .
 
Stewart Becomes a Member of Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame 
In June of 1990 Bob Stewart was inducted into the Collingwood Sport's Hall of Fame ,a fitting tribute indeed .He joined fellow horsemen Clarence Lockhart and John Burns in the Harness Horse category .The Hall also has a fourth member well known to harness racing people. Larry Gibbons who excelled in several sports and  was inducted in 1982 as a hockey player but who has also spent a lifetime in the harness sport .
 
Annual Stakes Races Held in Honour of Mr. Stewart 
Each year a special series of stake races for two year old Trotting fillies is held on the WEG Circuit to honour the memory of Bob Stewart .
 
Many years have passed since Robert's passing ;now over a quarter of a century .Many things have changed during that time but a handful of his co-workers remain now as part of the more recently formed Standardbred Canada .Heather Reid Manager of SC Sales & Stakes, recalls "Bobby" fondly as a close friend and co-worker and remembers that she started at about the same time as Stewart,in fact the same year . She recently stated as she reminisced about her long departed friend " I always wonder what he would think of the Industry now ...." 
 
Robert Stewart was survived by his wife Nancy ,two sisters Sharon Simpson and Donna Merrifield as well as his parents Ray and Edna .On the occasion of his funeral in Collingwood, a huge throng gathered to pay their last respects and a media account stated that "hundreds of people travelled thousands of miles" to say their final goodbyes .Like so many people, his life ended much too soon but in his relatively short earthly journey he made many friends,accomplished a great deal and left many happy memories .
 
A portion of a written reminiscence of his life stated " never have so many people lost a friend all at once " .
 
Readers Comments:
Robert:
Thanks for remembering Bobby - lovely article.
Thanks for taking me down memory lane!
From Heather Reid