Veteran Rideau Carleton Raceway pilot Howard Portelance celebrated his 3,500th career driving victory Thursday, December 18 at Rideau with two-year-old Modern Art gelding Told On You in Race 11.
Told On You recorded a one-length victory in 2:00.1.
"Harness racing is a team sport, beginning with owners, grooms, trainers and finally the driver," Portelance explained, "but only the horse and driver are the only ones seen in the photo crossing the wire -- it took a team effort to get me there!"
Portelance, 52, said that it felt good to hit the milestone in his hometown for local owners Brian and Stephanie Cassell and trainer Robbie Robinson.
Portelance also wanted to convey his thanks to everyone involved with his career over the past 35 years for the opportunities to get to the Winner's circle.
Nice to see you back Howard.
Nice to see you back Howard. Those hands have more millions left in them. Show the kids how its done with your lie in wait, off the pace style.
Andrew
A gentleman both on and off
A gentleman both on and off the track. I miss the days when Howard, Darrell and Jacques duked it out night after night. Congratulations to the Million Dollar Hands.
Rick
Congrats Howard, from day
Congrats Howard, from day one a class act. Always able to get the job done and bring back a horse for next week. Thanks Howard for the thrills and the memories.
Best of Racing
G.Mitzlos