The inaugural Most Valuable Trainer Award was won by trainer Ron Burke at the conclusion of the Breeders Crown races this past Saturday night
. Burke accumulated 38 points in the scoring and bested 62 other trainers that all put on another thrilling show for harness racing fans all over the world.
Burke sent 10 horses postward in the $6 million Crown finals, and brought home a win (Sweet Lou, in the freshman pacing division), a second (Foiled Again, in the Crown Pace) and a third (Foxy Lady, in the sophomore filly pace.) Only two of his 10 charges failed to hit the board.
“For us, Sweet Lou was the best win of my career,” said Burke.
“People mention the Artsplace-Die Laughing [Crown] race as the only one to come close in memory. When you are in that company, when you get mentioned with horses like that, that’s really something”
As part of his award, Burke will receive $2,500 in racing tack and equipment from Walsh Harness and Saddlery and a commemorative trophy.
Paul Treiber, president of Walsh Harness and Saddlery, was extremely happy with the outcome.
“Ron Burke has been a leader in the sport for years and comes from a family with deep roots in harness racing just like Walsh. I congratulate him on his MVT performance on Breeders Crown night, and look forward to presenting him with his award.”
(With files from the Breeders Crown)