Three Generations Of Jamiesons To Race At Clinton
Harness racing is built on family traditions, and this weekend at Clinton Raceway, perhaps no story will embody that spirit more than that of the Jamiesons.
Three generations of one of Canada's most respected harness racing families will each have their own moment in the spotlight during Legends Day, the National Driving Championship, and the Junior National Driving Championship.
The story begins with Carl Jamieson.
Born in Pugwash, N.S., Carl made the life-changing decision in 1986 to move his family and racing stable to Ontario in pursuit of greater opportunities. Alongside his wife, Debbie, and their children, Brandy and Jody, Carl built more than a successful operation—he established a family legacy that has become synonymous with excellence in Canadian harness racing.
On Sunday, July 26, Carl returns to the sulky to compete in the Legends Day Invitational Trot, joining fellow Hall of Famers and legendary drivers who helped shape the sport, as part of Clinton Raceway's signature event.
His son, Jody Jamieson, has carried his legacy forward, becoming one of Canada's most accomplished drivers. On Sunday, he'll compete for his third National Driving Championship title and the opportunity to represent Canada at the 2027 World Driving Championship, an event he has also won twice.
Adding another chapter to the family's remarkable story is Jody's daughter, Siara Jamieson, who will compete in the Junior National Driving Championship with her miniature pony, Looney Tunes, on Saturday, as part of the weekend festivities.
Seeing three generations of the same family compete on the same weekend is a rare and special moment.
"This weekend is pretty special for our family" said Jody. "It's really a full-circle moment. It all started with my dad, and now to have him driving in the Legends Day Invitational Trot, while I'm competing for a chance to represent Canada at the World Driving Championship, and then seeing Siara taking part in the Junior National Driving Championship — it's something we never could have imagined. To have three generations of our family all participating in one weekend at the same racetrack is incredibly meaningful."
When asked who gives the best advice and who listens the best, Jody answers quickly.
"I'd like to think I give the best advice," Jody joked. "Whether dad or Siara actually listen is another story."
"I agree with dad," said Siara. "Because he's one of the best drivers, he gives both good advice and listens too."
For Carl, Sunday comes with another chance to experience the thrill of race day while sharing the track with fellow legends. For Jody, it's an opportunity to chase another career achievement. And for Siara, it's the beginning of what everyone hopes will be a lifetime of cherished memories in the sport that has shaped her family for generations.
"I'm incredibly proud that we have three generations of our family racing at Clinton Raceway this weekend," Carl said. "I learned from my parents, then Jody learned from me, and now it's rewarding to watch both (Jody's son) Jett and Siara learning from the two of us. That's what makes this sport so special—it's a tradition that's passed from one generation to the next."
With a smile, Carl doesn't hesitate when asked who gives the best advice in the family.
"That would be me, of course," he said with a laugh. "And they always listen... at least I'd like to think they do."
Carl said one lesson has guided him throughout his career in harness racing.
"Always be willing to listen to new ideas," he said. "Don't knock it until you try it. That's something I've always believed, and it's served me well over the years."
The Jamieson story is about more than championships, accolades and who gives the best advice. It's about taking a chance on a dream, building a life around horses, and passing that passion from one generation to the next. Along with great racing, this weekend at Clinton Raceway, fans will witness a family's legacy coming full circle.
(Clinton Raceway; photo shows (L-R) Carl, Siara, Jody and Jett Jamieson)