Trot Insider has learned of the recent passing of long-time horseman Bill Keeping. He was 57.

Keeping, a native of Woodstock, Ont., was a respected trainer who plied his trade in the early 80s at Windsor Raceway before eventually moving to Florida where he assisted in the Peter Wrenn Stable. He moved to the U.S. to race at the Meadowlands, but returned to Ontario in 2002 where he married his wife Tracey. In 2019, Keeping relocated to Florida.

Keeping was well-known for picking out inexpensive yearlings, developing them and then selling them in the early stages of their careers.

One of his greatest accomplishments was picking out, developing and racing Native Born. He produced a 7-for-11 campaign as a rookie before going on to be a multiple stakes winner that banked over $1.1 million.

Keeping is survived by his wife Tracey, daughter Charlsey, mother Sara (Sadie), sister Joanne (Don Neil), brother Brian (Margaret) and many nieces and nephews and their families. He is predeceased by his father Alec (2003). Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held once travel conditions allow.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Bill Keeping.