The frigid air was chilling, the frozen track scraped clear.
Out came the mighty reinsmen, all proud from ear-to-ear.
The smiling Swede, the German pro, they stepped toward the track.
The champ from France, the Kiwi kid – both ready to attack.
Fresh pressed driving colours and leather boots all shined.
Gloves and hats and winter gear. Helmets well designed.
Oh, the Stars and Stripes had swagger as he danced toward the start.
His head was in the winner’s circle. His horse behind the cart.
The Aussie kid was confident, this race was in the bag.
His brain was on the podium. His eyes were on the flag.
Their anthems all were playing in the dreams that graced their eyes.
They’d come to visit Canada, and take away the prize.
And as the gate drove slowly by, the drivers took their place.
The noble field of trotters prepared to start the race.
Out flew the eager horses, encouraged to yield their best.
“Heeeee-ahhhhh,” screamed the pilots. Their athletes to the test.
Flying quarter. Blazing half. Battle around the bend.
The group of global drivers fighting bravely to the end.
But somewhere in that grandstand came a hush beyond compare.
And somewhere among that crowd of fans came a finger in the air.
It pointed to the racetrack. They screamed into the night.
We saw him on the outside. It was the Red and White!
We flashed back to Joe O’Brien, saw Keith and Hervé too.
Michel, John, The Magic Man and Ronnie Waples’ blue.
Here comes the Canadian driver sweeping past the pack.
No confident words are needed when the proof is on the track.
And now the anthem’s playing, and the Maple Leaf we raise.
And now we stand on guard for thee, shaking off the praise.
We are who we are. Confident in our stride.
We are Canadian harness racing. Character, strength and pride.
DARRYL KAPLAN
[email protected]
Sincerely wishing all of you and your families a wonderful holiday season, and a great 2016!
