Fourteen years ago the Host Committee of our Atlantic Sires Stakes Championship weekend decided to start the tradition of recognizing one harness racing family from each of our Atlantic Provinces for their significant long term contribution to our industry. While our Sires Stakes Championship weekend has grown to include numerous events, the recognition of our racing families continues to be my favourite.
In our world of rapid change, with families geographically spread out like never before, there is something very special about an intergenerational bond, that one link that is shared over decades. All share a common trait, their family citations read that evening tell a story of a passion for horses and harness racing, which could not be purchased, only nurtured.
Prince Edward Island honoured the Andrew family, whose patriarch Blair started racing in the 1940's, achieved significant success on a regional basis, and competed into his 70s. His son Erwin shared the passion for horses, which has been passed on to Grandson's Brian, Bill, and Rollin. A fourth generation of the Andrew family, Dylan, Rachel, and Blake continue their legacy. Along with their tremendous harness racing and business success, the Andrew family have been generous contributors to numerous charities and industry initiatives within our region.
The Dick Armstrong family of Saint John, New Brunswick can boast of five generations of family involvement. Dick was a successful trainer driver in the New Brunswick -Maine circuit, which continued with his son Donald, a leading participant of his era. Grandsons Rick and Joe continued the family legacy of training and driving. Don's daughter Twila (Steve) Mahar has also been a long time licensed industry official. Their involvement continues with Luke, Matthew, Terra, Bonnie, Rebecca, Jocelyn, and Katelyn .
The MacDonell family legend suggests their Scottish Highland ancestors immigrated to Port Hood, Nova Scotia in a sulky in the 1700s. While yet to be proven, it does illustrate the great affinity for the standardbreds of Angus J. MacDonell. Angus was an entrepreneur farmer and distinguished veteran of the Battle of Vimy Ridge - but at his core, he was a horseman. Along with his wife Mary Ann, he shared that passion to all eight of his children: Donald Alex, Mae, Margaret, Theresa, Vesty, Blaise, Johnny and Bea.
The third and fourth generations of MacDonells continue that tradition, through grandsons Lewis, Bernie, Alex, and Paul, and great grandson Mark. Future generations are sure to maintain the family passion as the Ratchford, Walsh, and MacDonald families are now related via marriage.
Jack McDonald was the first Presiding Judge at what is now St.John's Racetrack and Entertainment Centre in the Goulds region of Newfoundland and Labrador. His son Tom was a dairy farmer, but also worked at the local track over the years. Grandson Paul is an active owner/trainer, and has been involved in the local Horse Owners Association. Great grandson Jack is a passionate groom, and is learning the business from his father.
The story of these families is the story of us as an industry. Shared bonds, the love of horses, and the desire and thrill of competition. Congratulations to all those recognized.