Don McElroy Passes

Longtime harness racing industry participant Don McElroy of London, Ont. passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023 after losing his battle with cancer.

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan on Aug. 23, 1956, Don's passion in life was harness racing. Considered one of Ontario's top catch drivers in his day, Don posted 4,015 wins and more than $18.5 million in purse earnings during his driving career.

A two-time Lampman Cup winner as the top driver in the Ontario Sires Stakes program, McElroy was added to the Wall of Fame at London's Western Fair in 2010 where he won seven driving titles and captured the track's signature event — the Molson Pace (now the Camluck Classic) — on three occasions.

Predeceased by his mother Thelma and father Ken. Survived by his wife Wendy, daughter Amy, mother-in-law Pat Tanner, brother-in-law Kevin Blanchard, and nephew Thomas Blanchard. Don loved his two dogs Keeja and Rosie who are waiting for him heaven. Cremation has taken place.

Officials with The Raceway at the Western Fair District have indicated that the track will hold a winner’s circle tribute on Monday (April 24) between the third and fourth race. Horsepeople on-track that evening are invited to attend.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Don McElroy.