Former driver and trainer Renald Filion passed away in Lachute, Que. on Jan. 13, 2026 at the age of 87.
Renald was one of eight Filion brothers who were active in driving and training Standardbred racehorses. He was a brother to Herve, Yves, Henri, Gilles, Rheo, Denis and Marcel.
Over five decades of racing, Renald drove winners of 942 races and $2.8 million in purse earnings and trained winners of more than $1 million. At one point in his career, he worked hand in hand with brother Herve at Herve's Capital Hill Farm in Englishtown, New Jersey, driving and training some of Herve's horses.
Renald's most exciting day in the winner's circle took place at the Rideau Canal Ice Races on Feb. 4, 1979 in Ottawa, Ont., where he won a race between the eight Filion brothers. Greeting him in the winner's circle was Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau along with son Justin. Renald saw that Justin was interested in touching the winning horse so he hoisted Justin in his arms to pat the horse. That photo was carried around the nation and gave great exposure to harness racing.
In accordance with Renald's wishes, there was no funeral or celebration of life.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Renald Filion.