Trot Insider has learned that longtime Alberta horseman James E. 'Jim' Rogers passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, March 22 at the age of 87.
Jim has been very active in the Standardbred industry in Alberta for over 50 years. For many years, Jim has had prominent pacers in Alberta and across North America. Notably in the early 70’s with partner Ed Tracey, he bred the amazing pacer Herbert Dundee. Though 'Herbert' got off to a slow start, at the age of five in 1979 he came into his own, showing his talent for a lifetime of 101 starts with 63 wins totaling $172,328 in earnings and a mark of 1:58.2. In the 80’s, Jim and Ed also partnered and bred with the stallion Fulmini, who became well known, and they were proud of his offspring. With Ella Rogers, Jim bred and raced another fantastic pacer in E Jay Bullet, who paced in 1:54.1 as a four-year-old in 1988 and accumulated lifetime earnings of $403,114.
Racing was a huge part of who Jim was, and with Connie Kolthammer, he went on to develop the Outlaw Stable. Many, many articles have been written about this well established, well known racing and breeding farm. They are well known not only for the horses breeding, conformation and talents, but also for the care Jim and Connie put into their horses and all animals who call Outlaw Stable their home. Most notably, the stallions Smart Shark and Blue Burner, who have sired multiple Open and Sires Stakes winners, and the pacing mare Outlaw Independance. At three, Outlaw Independance paced in 1:54 and was a multiple Open and Sires Stakes winner herself, earning $515,308. Many of these horses are still talked about often and fondly within the industry.
Jim Rogers had dedicated many years to the industry and the animals he loved. He, his horses and his Outlaw Stable are well known and sought after throughout North America. Jim was never short on a smile, a good story and helpful advice for anyone who happened by. His home, barn and farm were always open to visitors, with a cup of coffee and a warm smile.
Details regarding arrangements have not yet been finalized, but Trot Insider will update this notice when those details are available.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Jim Rogers.
(With files from ASHA)
Jim was a great guy and
Jim was a great guy and always had a great sense of humor.