Each year the members of the upstate New York chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association look to honour someone that adds to the racing experience by being a constant resource for those who participate and who is willing to pitch in when help for any event is needed. Paul White has been doing just that locally for the last 12 years, and for that he has been named the 2013 Good Guy Award recipient.
White is the track photographer at both Batavia Downs and Buffalo Raceway and is a big part of the racing community. As the area's pictorial historian, he documents the nightly events that occur at these tracks for all that participate. Through all kinds of weather, he is at his post at the finish line to capture each victory as they occur and the celebration of the winning connections afterward. And if you want a special shot, just ask and he’ll take care of that, too.
Besides chronicling the races, White makes himself available to photograph the various parties and groups that are hosted in the clubhouse in order to make the experience of those race goers even more memorable. White also comes in early or stays late when the need is there, to cover any functions or charitable events to help anyway he can.
From a media standpoint, White always makes his work available for press releases or magazine articles and does it in a timely manner. This is vital in the continuing promotion of the sport both in print and on the web. He has added to the quality of racing in western New York and for that reason he is receiving this award.
Paul White will be presented his award during the UNY-USHWA ‘Night of Distinction’ this Saturday night in the winner’s circle at Batavia Downs. Other year-end award winners including horses and drivers of the year will be announced later this week.
(USHWA)