Pennsylvania breeder George Hempt, who has operated Hempt Farms and campaigned such notables as last year's top stakes performer Keystone Horatio, died Saturday morning at age 65 after a battle with cancer
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Hempt's father, Max, a Hall of Famer, founded Hempt Farms and George continued the family tradition after his father's passing. In 2007 and 2008 George followed Keystone Horatio's career with enthusiasm, traveling to Ontario to watch the Ontario-sired colt compete in such events as the North America Cup. John Kopas trained Hempt's horses in Canada. Keystone Horatio earned $1,033,578 as a two and three-year-old and took a mark of 1:50.2 last year.
John Kopas trained Keystone Horatio and many other horses for Hempt. "During the last year or so he would be in Ontario three or four days a week," said Kopas. "It will certainly never be the same again without George. He was always at the barn in the morning and he was very good to my staff, who is already missing him as well. The whole industry has lost a giant fan and supporter, and I've lost a best friend."
George Hempt's son, Max J., serves on the board of the Hambletonian Society and has been active in the sport, attending races and sales with his father.
(harnessracing.com)
The Standardbred Horse
The Standardbred Horse Owners Panel wishes to express its condolences to the family of George F. Hempt.
George made a significant contribution to harness racing through his ownership and breeding of horses. George was a founding member of SHOP and his many friends at SHOP will miss him.
Dave Drew
Executive Director
SHOP
What sad news. George was a
What sad news. George was a giant in the industry as both a both owner and breeder. I met George for the first time at Lexington which was my first time there. On arriving at Lexington I sat with John Kopas and Rene Laarman with George in his box at The Red Mile. He truly was a very kind man and a true harness racing fan. This was evident when he would arrive at Rideau Carleton Raceway to watch his horses race aboard his private plane. He will be sadly missed. I send out my condolences to his family and his very good friend John Kopas.
Terry Lantz
Director of Racing
Rideau Carleton Raceway