I overuse the wet-paper-bag analogy. “I couldn’t find my way out of a wet paper bag. I couldn’t handicap my way out of a wet paper bag. I couldn’t sing my way out of a wet paper bag.” Whatever...it’s a stupid analogy. Think about it: The bag is wet; just pick a spot and tear through it. Geesh

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For several reasons (including an inclination to be blissfully delusional), I remain optimistic that the harness racing industry will eventually enjoy an absolute upswing. Just as Picasso had his Blue Period, we have our Wet Paper Bag Period. Picasso’s lasted four years. Ours ... is ... kinda ... longer than that, yes, but Picasso was just one crazy man, and we are an entire industry of them, so please — a little patience.

Of all the initiatives poised to help find our way out of the wet paper bag, the TROT Canada National Handicapping Championship is definitely a step in the right direction.

I’m not suggesting it’s the Messiah. I’m merely saying it’s a smart idea that incites cooperation from industry stakeholders and a desire from bettors. Superbly executed three years running by Standardbred Canada, the TCNHC unabashedly promotes wagering (hurray!), glorifies winning (hurray!) and bestows a champion title — providing the consumer with something tangible ($25,000) and fantastical (the crown) to pine for (hurray!).

Kudos to Standardbred Canada and the 2009 TCNHC host, Rideau Carleton Raceway in Ottawa. The event was fab, as confirmed by the 39 players and their guests representing tracks and industry associations from coast to coast.

When we talk about real efforts that make a real difference in the future of our industry, this is one of them.

TCNHC victor Roy Sproxton and his wife Vadeo are graduates of the 2009 Standardbred Xtreme Adult Harness Racing Camp at Grand River. That program was developed in partnership a few years ago by Standardbred Canada and the Ontario Harness Horse Association, and the camps are held at any track willing to host one. Another smart idea with good execution and a clear objective for the longevity of the industry.

Roy’s big win this past weekend is a clear illustration of how wet paper bag exit strategies are fashioned from multiple steps in the right direction.