August flew by quickly again this year. It was a very busy month, and as Canadians, we saw many firsts! Canada earned its first gold medal in trampoline at the Olympics. Our women’s soccer team brought home a bronze medal — Canada’s first in a classic team sport at a summer Olympics since 1936. August also saw our very own Casie Colemen become the youngest person — male or female — to reach $40 million in purses as a trainer. What a great accomplishment! Congratulations to Casie and her crew!
Another first by a fellow horseperson was the win by trainer Linda Toscano in the Hambletonian! That victory made her the first female trainer to win the prestigious race. Congratulations Linda!
I’ve no doubt that one day we’ll see both these great ladies inducted into the Hall of Fame on both sides of the border.
The 2012 Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame ceremonies took place in August as well, and alongside three standardbred horses (Astreos, Kadabra, and Mystic Mistress), two deserving harness racing individuals were inducted.
Charles Juravinski built Flamboro Downs from the ground up. He owned the racetrack from 1975 until selling it in 2003. Charlie and his wife Margaret have made many generous donations to the Hamilton health sciences, and have a hospital and a cancer centre (among other things) named after them. Charlie was also the owner of Breeders Crown winner Ellamony. This year also saw the 36th Confederation Cup at Flamboro Downs, which was born with Charlie at the helm of Flamboro Downs.
Mr. OSS — Dave Wall — also joined the Hall this month. He is one of the true horsemen of our sport. He is an all-around horseman who breeds, owns, trains, drives, and honestly loves horses. He’s been associated with many greats — from Staff Director to Goodtimes to Odies Fame to Gloworm. And aside from being one of the best horsemen ever, Dave (and his family) is very generous to our industry. Every year for roughly two decades, the Wall family has hosted the fundraising Walltyme Golf Tournament to raise funds for horsemen that are in need of some assistance due to injuries or sickness. They’ve raised thousands and thousands of dollars for families over the years, and it’s one of the most popular golf tournaments to play in here in Ontario. Dave and his wife Cheryl are truly living legends.
On some SC business, the Taxation Committee met to further discuss the John Craig win at the Supreme Court level. They have met with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture as well as members of the thoroughbred industry to further the strategic plan going forward.
Finally, September is upon us, which sees no end to the busy days! There are two by-elections in Ontario, the beginning of yearling sales, and the Ontario government’s transitional panel will make its report. The Standardbred Canada website is always up to date with relevant news and events, so be sure to check it regularly to stay up in touch!