Many harness racing participants are remembering the late Phil Pinkney as one of Atlantic Canada's most admired and successful participants. The highly respected Nova Scotia-based horseman passed away on Saturday, Nov. 13 at the age of 84.
"He had a reputation for class, and he had a reputation for hard work, and [he's] just an all-around gentleman," Lee Drake, Racing & Broadcast Manager at Red Shores Racetrack in Charlottetown, P.E.I., was quoted as saying in a CBC News article. "It's an honour to know him and what he's done over the years for harness racing in Atlantic Canada, and harness racing in general."
"Horses can't talk. They can't tell you what their problem is or what they're struggling with. You have to figure it out. Phil was very good at that and was always very willing to help the young people, or anybody coming to look for advice. He was always good to give it," said trainer Brent MacGrath of his mentor. "He was always very open-minded."
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, Nov. 20.
To read the CBC News article in its entirety, click here.