After having just been named the 2009 Rising Star by the Maine Harness Horsemen’s Association, 20-year-old Brian Blanchard is basking in the mainstream media

spotlight.

The resident of Thorndike, Maine has been featured in an article by the Bangor Daily News.

After having driven in 84 pari-mutuel dashes in 2007 and 2008 combined, Blanchard faced the gate for 168 wagering affairs in 2009. He recorded 13 wins, 19 second-place finishes and 19 thirds. Blanchard steered his mounts to over $40,000 in purses during the campaign.

“It’s special. Harness racing’s really the common man’s pastime,” Blanchard was quoted as saying. “It’s carrying on. And, hopefully, it’ll keep on.”

“He’s got nice, young ambition. He goes out and tries each time,” Bruce Soule was quoted as saying. “He learns from the other drivers. He makes a mistake here and there ... but he’s getting better every year. He’s got that natural hand, that natural ability.”

Click here to the read the Bangor Daily News article in its entirety.

(With files from Bangor Daily News)