Robert MacKenzie Passes

Longtime horseman Robert "Robbie" MacKenzie of Sydney, N.S. passed away on April 27, 2023 at the age of 61.

Robbie was predeceased by his father Robert A. MacKenzie (1936-2004) and mother Lorene (1935-2021). He will be greatly missed by his wife, Kimberly, and children Robbyne (Chris), Jordan (Louise), Tony (Michelle), Robert “Bobby” and Matthew.

As children, Robbie and his brothers Francis (Gladys), Rousell “Raz” (Caryl-Leigh) and Jean-Marc received an early education in hockey from their father, whose career as a teacher and a principal would take the family from Sydney to Schefferville, Quebec, and back again.

In addition to varsity hockey, Robbie played 250 games in the Quebec Minor Junior Hockey League and was the team captain of the Sherbrooke Castors in the 1980-1981 season.

Robbie started training standardbred racehorses professionally in 1987. Together with his brother Raz, Robbie raced horses across Canada and the United States, Italy and Germany, winning many races and titles over a career that spanned nearly four decades. In 1989, Robbie was named Trainer of the Year at Blue Bonnets Raceway in Montreal, Que. Robbie credited his early success in Montreal to the hard work and dedication of the grooms and trainers that supported his stable and was proud of their achievements as they went on to become top trainers in Ontario, Quebec and the United States. He was also thankful to Rick Zeron, J.C. Bergeron and Dr. John Hennessey for the role they played in his early career.

Per Robbie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private Christian burial will be held at a later date for family members. Arrangements entrusted to the Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel. Memorial contributions to Hospice Wellington would be appreciated. 

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Robert MacKenzie.