Trot Insider has learned that Standardbred racehorse owner John Ferguson of Belleville, Ont. has passed away.

Ferguson passed away at Belleville General Hospital on Thursday, July 14.

John owned many horses with son Todd that raced at Quinte Raceway from the mid-1970s to the final night of racing on September 29, 2006 (as well as racing at other tracks).

John was the inaugural president of the Quinte Sulky Club. John and Todd also had many horses with trainer/driver Doug Bowins, including Winning Smile A, who, at one time, held the track record at Kawartha Downs.

Dear father of Todd (Debbie), Tracy (Jake Vandervelde) and John Ferguson, all of Belleville. Proud grandfather of David Ferguson.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of John Ferguson.