On October 28, 2016, John T. Mayo of the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame was presented an Individual Award of Excellence by the Greater Hudson Heritage Network for dedication and service to New York State history.

The peer-reviewed award program recognizes and commends exceptional individuals and projects which exemplify creativity and professional vision, resulting in a contribution to the preservation and interpretation of the history, culture and diversity of the region.

As operations manager of the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame, Mayo has contributed to the museum’s mission to preserve and celebrate harness racing’s presence for more than 19 years. Despite a number of additions and renovations which have augmented and enhanced the structure – which now totals 36,000 square feet – the original 1913 horse stable has remained virtually unchanged since its transformation into a museum in 1950. Preserving the stable and maintaining the more modern rooflines and facilities that connect to it are ongoing challenges for Mayo and the Museum staff.

Mayo also supervises the museum’s education department and junior docent program. A favourite of his fellow staff members, Mayo is regarded as an outstanding ambassador for the museum and much deserving of this award.

The Greater Hudson Heritage Network serves the museum and history communities as a catalyst to advance professional standards and practices, build capacity of organizations to meet their missions, and create a network of effective and professional stewards. John Mayo and other awardees were honoured on Friday, October 28 at GHHN’s annual conference, convened this year at Locust Grove Historic Estate in Poughkeepsie, NY.

(Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame)