Clare MacDonald is the real deal

I’ve been lucky enough to travel extensively in the world of harness racing, and along the way I’ve met many top trainers and drivers in North America, Europe, and Down Under. By now, I think I can discern those who are the real deal from those who are mere mountebanks.

Let me tell you something: Clare MacDonald is the real deal.

I don’t remember when I first met Clare, but it was many years ago and certainly at some track in the Maritimes. If you didn’t know she was the real deal, all you’d have to do is stand back and watch her handle a horse, both on the track and off the track. The lady is a pro.

That’s why I was so dismayed to hear about the serious injuries Clare suffered in a racing accident this summer. I’m not surprised, however, to learn that the Truro Horse Owners Assn. is hosting a fund raiser for Clare. I know Maritimers well enough to know how they stick together and support one of their own. And far better than the rest of us, Maritimers know that Clare is the real deal. They’ve witnessed her achievements year after year.

The fund raiser will be on Oct. 25 in Truro and, while I don’t think I can attend, I am sending a few small items for the auction. If they can raise a few bucks to help a good cause, I’ll be happy.

I’ll be even happier when Clare has recovered and is once again in the sulky, but surely not nearly as happy as Clare will be when that happens.

It’s been a few years since I’ve seen Clare, but I’ve never forgotten the professionalism she displayed. I hope she’s back doing what she loves soon.

For more information on the fund raiser, contact Cindy Christie by phone at 902-893-3947, email [email protected] or Kelly Smith by phone at 902-895-6646.