This weekend the harness racing industry in Atlantic Canada lost one of its true unsung heroes as Frank Robertson of Halifax, N.S. passed away on Saturday, November 8 at the age of 80.
Although not well known in the recent harness racing scene, Robertson was not only very active in horse racing, but also a catalyst in the Maritime Harness Racing Industry.
Robertson was a true horseman participating as an owner, a trainer, a driver, and a breeder. He was also past president of the Halifax County Horse Owner’s Association and was instrumental in bringing winter racing to Sackville Downs during the glory years of Maritime Harness Racing in the 1970’s.
While at Sackville Downs he founded Tomwood Stables and trained and piloted many successful horses including Tilly Finesse and Flying Adios. In more recent years he watched from the stands as an owner as Falstaff and Elm Grove Noelle became major stakes winners.
Outside of racing Robertson left school early to proudly serve his country in the Navy towards the end of World War II. While in the Navy he competed in amateur boxing and remained active in amateur sport coaching minor hockey for many years.
After a successful sales career he founded Atlantic Fund Raising Services Ltd. in 1969, a true Maritime success story still operating almost 40 years later.
Robertson was very active in his community in many ways but his true passion was harness racing both in the avenues of competing and improving the industry as a whole. He was a husband, father, and a good friend to many. He will be sorely missed.
A memorial service will be at the United Memorial Church, 5375 Kaye Street, Halifax, on Thursday, November 13 at 2:00 p.m. His ashes will be buried at a later date on Prince Edward Island.
Please join SC in offering our condolences to the family and friends of Frank Robertson.