Writer Robert Smith recreates a story that would have probably appeared 44 years ago as a watershed event was about to occur in Canadian Harness Racing history
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North America's newest and undoubtedly finest racetrack is set to open on Thursday, October 21, 1965 at Windsor, Ontario. It will be officially known as Windsor Raceway.
Several years in the making, it will be unrivaled in its features and facilities, designed specifically for wintertime racing. It boasts a lightning fast five-eighths mile Tartan covered racing surface intended to remain in first class racing condition throughout even the harshest of winter weather. The stables are all insulated, with hot and cold running water and wash stations in each section. Paved pathways connect all areas. Another extremely useful amenity will be the installation of a telephone in each barn connected with the Race Secretary's office. The grandstand is totally glass enclosed and heated, to create a summer-like atmosphere all winter long. In a word, nothing has been spared in the way of comfort for both horsemen and the paying public.
This opportunity for virtual year-round racing will serve as a tremendous boost to all horsemen as well as providing a chance for a potential market of 5 million people who live in the Windsor-Detroit area to watch harness racing all year long. Ever since the legendary Dufferin Park in Toronto closed its doors in March of 1955, the Ontario racing season has been limited to basically a Spring through Fall season. Someone once said "no race of any consequence is ever held at a time when there are no leaves on the trees"....That is all about to change.
The Raceway's opening has attracted a huge number of stables from both sides of the border. Those Canadians asking for stalls include veteran Herb Craig from Chatham, Jack Gordon, Bert Madill, Pat Crowe, Fred Goudreau, Keith and Murray Waples, Clarence Lockhart, Harold Wellwood, Wilf Duford, Merv Kirkness, Fred Roloson, Henri Filion, Brian Webster and dozens more. From the U.S. side such names as Gerry Bookmeyer, Wally McIllmurray Sr., Bud Foster, Don Keeton, Gordon Norris, Don Hall, The Merrimans - Tom & Jim Jr., Jack Betts and Bert Amos Jr. are but a few who will be on hand.
A roster of top horses includes pacers Barbara Johnston, Bobby Axland Jr., Philip Brian, Windy City, McCarr Hanover, Dusty Lightning, Championdale, Scat Time, Trotwood Bob and Billy Bayama. The list of trotters includes Ardee, Flash Gordon, Gay Worthy, Star Bell, Dutch Dillard and Penny Scot.
A rather unique part of the opening night ceremonies occurred in the afternoon of opening day. Horseman John Sutherland drove a horse across the Ambassador Bridge. It was intended to symbolize the closeness of the two Countries as well as the transfer of the racing season from Michigan to Ontario. On hand to greet the former Maritimer Sutherland and his horse, were Raceway officials Vice President Wm. Rowe and President Al Siegel, as well as parade marshal Helen Derenoski.
A great deal of the design at Windsor was a result of input by The Hon. Earl Rowe and his son William who along with Race Secretary Joe DeFrank designed virtually every detail. The Rowes' extensive racing experience became evident in all areas. They knew what fans and horsemen would enjoy. Intense attention to sight lines for the crowd from every level was important. As for the horsemen Mr. Rowe Jr. said "we were tired of washing our faces in horse pails and believed no horseman should have to do so. Everything will be first class."
Paddock judge "Black Jack" Stewart, starter Tom McDonnell, presiding judge Don Perfect and announcer Jack Riggs are all ready for the word GO. Post time is 7 p.m. for opening night Thursday, October 21, 1965.
I think Robert Smith should
I think Robert Smith should write another article about Windsor Raceway in 2009. He could even use the same title, "Windsor Sets New Standard".
Sounds like Windsor may land
Sounds like Windsor may land on the same scrap heap as Hippodrome de Montreal (aka Blue Bonnets). In fact, it may be the same group of pathetic characters who frequent.
One almost feels dirty with the admittance of enjoying harness racing.
I have had the experience of visiting over forty harness and t'bred track on North America. Unfortunately, the ones that work hard, try hard and actually have a clue, still struggle. A shame, because there is no finer entertainment than an afternoon/evening of handicapping and picking a winner or two. A few drinks and decent food to compliment the experience make it an event.
Unfortunately, most racetracks are operated by dinosaurs, cheapskates or blind visionaries. Take a page from the winners of the hospitality industry. Start rebuilding the industry from the bottom up. Oh, a problem. That would require a broad base industry team effort. I still believe it can be done. That said, if I had a few extra million, would I invest it in a harness racing facility? Wish I could
say "yes" before Happy Hour.
In 1966 limos would drop off
In 1966 limos would drop off their black-tied and long gowned fares for an evening of racing and luxurious dining. Now, ladies seldom venture past the slot parlour. Little wonder. Since security is non-existant, the boorish patrons curse at the top of their lungs with total impunity. Since the maintenance staff has been cut to one person the washrooms stink and the fresh spit remains on the floor mixed in with the losing tickets. Since the mutuels staff has been cut to a single seller, the handful of bettors still get shut out. No food is available on non-live nights. Many of the dirt encrusted TV's don't work. The air conditioning system broke down last summer and was not repaired. The clientele is virtually all seniors; no young people will tolerate the total lack of creature comforts.Current management does nothing to enhance the racing experience.Indeed, it's almost as if they'd prefer that no one be there. They say racing is important, but in reality, it would appear that the slot revenue is the main concern.Al Seigel and Tom Joy are likely still rolling in their graves. This one-time jewel of Ontario racing has become a dump.
In reply to In 1966 limos would drop off by Uppy
There is more than one track
There is more than one track you can call a dump. No food worth eating or an inside place to sit if you do venture to eat. Every track owner has racing only because they had to and yes, if they can make it miserable enough for the participants so harness racing dies, they would be quite happy. Dont look to the track owners to be part of any marketing strategy unless they can be forced to. Too bad horseman cant stick together.
as the recession begins to
as the recession begins to take a greater grip in canada over the next 2 years, all provinces will keep a greater share of slot revenues from the tracks portion and even woodbine and mohawk could turn into dumps. it's just a matter of time.
casino windsor and niagara are dying, profits down over 30% and sinking fast.
the racetrack slots have to be way down too.
Yes, I was there too. The
Yes, I was there too. The track had ushers and box seats were sold at a premium always full. Now the place is a dump, the Tvs don't work and they even closed the concession stand in the clubhouse (which is the only place to sit). Al Siegel would be shocked if he saw what they have turned his gem into. The management doesn't care about the horses or the horseman, only the slots. The ORC should step up and force the track to shape up or take away the slots.
I was there for the Windsor
I was there for the Windsor opening .What a glamorous track. For several years the place was crowded. Many great horse raced on its track such as Niatross, cardigan Bay , fresh Yankee ,and of course Albatros. Now the place is a dump. non horse people own it and it is in need of serious renovations. Sad to see. I had many happy moments there when i race my horses.