I have had the pleasure of visiting the majority of standardbred racetracks across Canada. From Newfoundland to British Columbia, every one has made an impression on me. They are not all palaces, but the character and history in each grandstand and on every backstretch is unique and extremely special.

As spring approaches, many Canadian horsepeople are packing up and heading back home from the U.S. TROT caught up with some of this year’s snowbirds to discuss the benefits and challenges of wintering in Florida. Story by Bob Carson

For decades, George “Butch” Ward has been the paddock judge at Red Shores Charlottetown. And for the same number of years, he’s been respected and appreciated by everyone he’s come into contact with. Story by Melissa Keith

Croyez-vous aux miracles? Non? Peut-être devriez-vous parler à Robert Montgomery. Le vétéran horseman peut vous prouver que les miracles se produisent, et vous n’avez qu’à regarder son poulain miraculé, Phoos Boy, pour en avoir l’évidence. Par Norm Borg. Avec la contribution de Brittney Mayotte. Traduction Louise Rioux

In the spring of 2012, a senseless act resulted in a gunshot wound to the neck of young a standardbred horse named Phoos Boy. What followed was a truly remarkable story of heroism, bravery and the will to live. Story by Norm Borg with contributions by Brittney Mayotte