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General Category => Nostalgia => Topic started by: Admin on March 08, 2011, 10:12:43 PM
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Joseph F. Lighthill.
From a well known Ohio racing family, Joe was born April 22, 1928 in Deshler, Ohio and was known to drive in races with four of the eight starters being Lighthills.
Drove his first race as a 14 year old at Kenton, Ohio, and won his first with "Peter L. Scott" also in 42.
Won his first pari-mutual race in 1945 at Fort Miami Raceway.
Joseph drove 3 year old "Miss Star Chief" to 13 consecutive wins, and 26 of 28.
He always considered "Lumber Dream" the fastest Horse he's ever driven.
Leading dash winner for Ohio in 1956.
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Joseph C. O'brien.
Second man to score more then 2,000 wins since the formation of the USTA in 1939.
Joe drove his 1st race in 1930 at the age of 13.
In 1947 he topped the USTA standings with 128 wins, but 44 were in the Maritime Provinces, so his National ranking that year was 7th.
Joe served with the Canadian Infantry during WW11.
Known as the "Ice Man", Joe won many major races including the Little Brown Jug in 57 & 58, The Harriman Trot and, The Sheppard in 67.
Now, can you name the Horses in those races ??
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Delmer M. Insko.
He drove his 1st race at Albert Lee, Minnesota on July 4th 1946 just a few days before his 15th birthday.
National dash winning champion in 1960, and runner up in 62, 64, 66, and 67.
Piloted "Speedy Rodney" to a word Champion mark on a half mile track in 1966, at 1:58 3/5.
Del recalls Henry T. Adios, Merrie Gesture, Josedale, and Go Lucky as some of his earlier charges with high regard.
Was 50 short of the 2,000 win mark at the end of 1967 and passed it early in 68 when he became the 6th driver to score 2,000 wins since the formation of the USTA.
His trademark was a wooden match in his mouth while driving in the races.
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Norman "Chris" Boring was born in Indianapoils, Ind on June 17th, 1941.
After graduating from High School in 1959, He joined his Dad on a full time basis.
Drove his 1st race in 1958 at the hometown Adrian, Michigan fair.
His only win in his first year of driving was with "Knight Stick" in a matinee race.
Boring "came of age" in the sport with the great "True Dane", with him, he had set a World record, and earned more the $100,000 in a season.
He won many major races including The American Classic in 1966, and teh Nation Pace Derby in 1967, both with True Dane.
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T. Wayne (Curly) Smart spent over 50 years in the Harness Industry!!
Born August 29th 1904 in Ostrander, Ohio he had many great Horses.
Curly often stated that he won more Stakes than He could ever remember, some were the first edition of the Little Brown Jug with Ensign Hanover in 1946, The $75,000 American Classic with Gold Worthy at Hollywood Park in 1946, and the $50,000 Nassau Invitational at Roosevelt Raceway TWICE with Scottish Pence in 1950, & 51.
Other great Horses Curly had were Senator Abbe, Poplar Byrd, Milestone, Smart Money, Tuxedo Hanover, and Meadow Rice.
Meadow Rice carried Curly to his 2nd Jug winner in 1952.
Among his fellow drivers, Curly is known as "canny, resourceful, and bold"
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Alan Myer.
Born in Bridgeville Delaware on June 9, 1926, needed no introduction to Harness Fans as his three well known racing brothers preceded him into the Sport.
His driving record included a great number of National rankings.
Alan first appeared on the National list in 1947, when 60 winning drives ranked him 25th in the Nation.
On the track, he was known as a good horsemen, who suited his pattern of driving to the Horse.
Major wins was the Orange County Cup in 1960 with Chipman's Heel, & The Reading Fut in 61 with Oh You Kid.
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Alfred T. Day.
Born February 13, 1939 in Danville N. H..
New England's leading race driver for many years.
His Dad, a top N.E. trainer-driver let 10 year old "Bucky" drive Rex Volo in a dash on the ice at Beaver Pond, in Derry N.H.
He won his first official race in 1946, at the Cornish Fair, in the fast time of 2:20, with "D.V.W."
In 1948 his career was nearly bought to an abrupt end, as a result of an accident at Old Orchard Beach Raceway, he nearly drowned. A violent storm hit the Raceway during the running of a race. The grandstand floor collapsed taking the lighting system with it. His mount went down, throwing him into a deep puddle, breaking his shoulder, and leaving him helpless to raise his head. A patrol judge, during a lightning flash spotted him, waded out and held his head out of the water for nearly half and hour until help could arrive.
Career highlights include: Driving his 500th win at Bay State Raceway in 1964, being voted N.E. driver of the year in 62, leading N.E. winner in 54, 57, 62, and 63.
Bucky was leading driver at Bay State in 51, 52, 53, Rockingham in 58, Hinsdale in 63, and Gorham in 57.
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Thanks to John1417 for all of these driver profiles. tmbz1
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Edward G. Cobb.
Born in Whitesville, New York on March 1, 1920.
Ed left Dairy farming in 1936 for a life in Harness Racing.
He won his first race in 1938 at the Carrollton, Ohio Fair, with the mare "Blossom Time"
Although far from unknown prior to Adios Butler days, Ed Cobb became a harness racing household name with the development of the former World Pacing Champion.
Career highlights include seasons leading driver at 7 major raceways.
He rates "Jerry The First" as the gamest Horse he ever handled, and of course "Adios Butler" the fastest.
Raced a mile in 1967 with "Honest Story" in 1:55 2/5 at the Red Mile.
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John "Tic" Wilcutts
Born in Magnolia, Delaware on November 23, 1919, Tic has been described by his fellow Horsemen as "One of the top drivers in the Country -- resourceful, adaptable, excellant post man, and has the ability to drive any horse"
John get's his nickname from his size, which was small enough to lead the owner of Man O'War, on three occasions to suggest that Tic leave school for a career as a Jockey.
After graduating from Cesar Rodney High School in Wyoming, Delaware, Tic joined the service, where He saw more then 2 years of South Pacific Action with the Army A.A.A., attaining S/Sgt stripes.
Harness racing began as a hobby with Him when he bought a $700 discard, and eventually began training and driving himself.
After his first win at Rosecroft in 1951, he purchased "True Peggy" which he raced with enough sucess to attract outside owners.
His first 100 win season was in 1961.
Leading driver at Baltimore in 56, 57, 60, 61, Laurel in 58, 59, Rockinghan in 61, and Liberty Bell in 63.
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Sanders Russell, Born April 26, 1900, in Stevenson, Alabama.
His career dates back to 1915, when as a 16 year old He drove in his first race, at South Pittsford, Tenn. That same year, He got his first win, a very fast 2:15 trip with "Frederick C." at Griffin, Ga.
The Public Stable He operated, was in the Russell Family for over 75 years, and was headquartered at the same Farm In Stevenson.
Prior to "getting into the business", Sanders graduated Jackson County High School, and attended Alabama Poly (Auburn).
In his later years, He was best known for his work with "A. C.'s Viking" with which He won the 1962 Hambletonian.
He recalled that in 1944, He won 11 consecutive stakes events on a midwest tour.
Sanders won the Acorn in 1963 with A. C.' s Jennie, The Hambo mentioned above, The Hanover Hempt in 61 with A. C.'s Viking, and the Quaker City in 66 with Fresh Yankee.
He considered Junior Council, Gratis Hanover, and Fresh Yankee, and of course A. C.'s Viking as some of his best Horses.
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Theodore G. Taylor born on April 22, 1927 in Columbus, Ohio.
Ted Taylor has concentrated on Harness Racing since childhood, setting the example for him were his Grandfather, John Taylor who trained while in his 80's, and his Father.
Ted went from School into the Navy, serving from 1944-1948.
He earned Asiatic and Pacific Campaign ribbons, and was a gunners mate 3rd when discharged.
Following separation from the service, he started grooming on a full time basis in his Grandad's stable.
By 1951, He had acquired enough experience to be allowed to start in a race at the Plain City Fair. It was to be a year later, however, at Hillards with "Hope Bingen" in 2:17 for his first win.
Ted did most of his racing in Southern Michigan, although He spent some time at Pompano Park.
Won the Michigan Fut. in 1966 with Sonny Fortune in 2:14 2/5, and in 67 also with Sonny Fortune in 2:10, and with Lovergirlnik in 2:06.
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Hugh A. Bell, born in Delaware, Ohio, on July 27, 1902.
Won his first race at the Delaware County Fair, Powell, Ohio with "Gypsy Girl"
We do not know how many races he won prior to the formation of the USTA in 1939, but can state for sure that he was one of the leaders in his time.
Major race wins include:
American National in 51 with Gander, and 52 with Thunderclap.
Bronx Fut. with Rapid Transit in 60
Goshen Cup in 51 with Gander
Hanover Hempt in 66 with Schatzie Byrd
Motor City Pace with Mr. Dean in 52
Leading driver at:
Detroit, 50
Toledo, 50
Roosevelt Raceway, 53, 59, 60
Yonkers, 54, 60, 61, 63
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John F. Simpson Sr.
Born in Chester, North Carolina on December 26, 1919.
Served with the U.S. Army from 1942-1946, and holding a rank of 1st Lt.
John drove and won his first race at Myrtle Beach, S.C. in 1938 with "My Birthday" in the sparkling time of 2:10.
John has won nearly every major stake that the sport has including both the Hambletonian twice with Hickory Smoke in 57, and Ayers in 64, and the Little Brown Jug three times with Noble Adios in 56, Torpid in 57, and Bullet Hanover in 60.
In the 50's and 60's He drove almost 100 sub 2:00 miles, and set at least 15 Major World Records.
Leading driver at Roosevelt in 50, 52, Laurel in 57, and Vernon in 62.
John was also President and General manager od Hanover Shoe Farm for many years.
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Glen G. Garnsey, born November 1, 1933 in Clayton, New York.
Talented Glen tested out farming, clerking in a store, and a tour as a deck hand before following his Dad, Garland into the sport on a full time basis.
His career was interrupted by a hitch with the U.S. Army from which he was discharged with Sergent's Stripes.
He drove his first race at Saratoga in 1950, and won his first that very same year with "Margaret Eblis" at the Cobbleskill Fair.
Glen had his first 100+ win year in 1963, including 99 wins at Vernon.
Glen and his Dad became the first Farther and Son combination to record 1,000 wins each.
His major race wins include the Bloomsburg fair in 1955, and The NYSS in 1963.
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Herve Filion, born February 1, 1940 in Angers, Quebec Canada.
Herve's first winning drive was as a 13 year, "as a passenger" behind "Guy Gratten" at Rigaud, Quebec in 1953.
Herve had 2,000+ wins by the end of the 60's with his first 200+ win season in 1966 followed up by 256 wins in 1967.
His first ever sub two minute mile was at Liberty Bell with "Scotch Key" in 1:59 2/5.
Some of his greatest races in the 60's were:
Fly Fly Byrd (beating Cardigan Bay)
Meadow Paige (beating Romulus Hanover)
All Aflame (beating Armbro Flight)
Herve likes to race off the pace, and once said "bulk of them race gamer that way"
Probally, the Greatest Harness Driver ever.
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Harold J. Story
Born in Argyle, New York on January 5, 1919.
Harold was wounded in action serving in the South Pacific during WW 11 while in the Army, and then decided to give up farming and Saddle Horse trading for a career in Harness Racing.
He drove and won the first race of his career in 1946 at Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
Since then, Harold had raced in California, Florida, Maine and in Canada.
He drove his first sub two-minute mile on September 5, 1952 with "Josedale Alate" at the Syracuse oval.
His top Horses included Josedale Alate, Congress Glove, Mighty Tarr, and Council Way.
Leading driver at both Fox Valley and Bay State in 1966
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Clint T. Hodgins.
Born June 18, 1907 in Clandeboye, Ontario, Canada.
Since the USTA was established in 1939, Hodgins won more then 1,500 races in the 50'S, and 60'S, and no one, including burly Clint, knows how many He won in the U.S. and Canada prior to that date.
He started a string of world-record settings in 1940 with the 2 year old trotting filly "Acrasia", but gained his greatest fame in the post year wars as driver of "proximity", the great trotting mare who re-wrote the record book in 1948-1950.
He also had Adois Butler in 1959, and Bye Bye Byrd until that pacing stallion's retirement.
Major races won are:
American National with Bye Bye Byrd in 1959.
American Trotting Championship with Proximity in 47 & 50
Cane Fut. three times with Adios Butler in 59, Cold Front in 61, and Ranger Knight in 62.
Hanover- Hempt twice in 62 and 63
Reynolds Memorial six times in 59, 60, 61, 67, 62, and 64
Clint held 14 World Records in the 50'S and 60'S
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Robert P. Cherrix.
Born in Snow Hill, Md. on February 15, 1930.
It took Bob just 12 seasons to soar past the million dollar mark in accumulated purses, and what's more astounding is that at the end of his 6th year of driving, his career total was slightly more then $109,000.00
Early in the 1959 season, New York City fans welcomed Bob with a flood of mutual tickets on anything with 4 legs (even those without good ones), and they were right since his first 8 starts resulted in 7 wins.
His fastest mile in the 60'S was at Lexington with "Doc Hobbs" in 1:57 4/5
Leading driver at Rosecroft in 1958.
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Jovis L. Gerry.
Born in Bidderford, Me. on January 23, 1928.
A member of one of New England's Harness racing families, Jovis was pursuing his driving career with great success since he made his first start at the Cumberland, Maine Fair in 1949.
A time study engineer for Saco-Lowell shops at Bidderford, Jovis confined his training activity to week-ends and after work hours, but did all his driving for the racing stable operated by his Uncle, Perl Gerry.
Jovis drove his first winner "Miss Mabel E. Peters" at Cumberland in 1950.
His career highlights include posting 5 wins, and 2 seconds on a Labor Day card at Lewiston.
Maine fans noticed that the Gerry-trained Horses reached the raceways ready to win, and always finished the seasons strong.
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George F. Sholty.
Born on November 2, 1932.
A graduate of Washington Township High, Logansport, Ind. where despite his size, He co-captained and starred as a guard on the Basketball team.
His first win came in 1951, at Frankford, Ind., a 2:13 trip with "George Jr."
His training came with his Family owned stable, and later as a second trainer for Tom Winn, and Gene Sears.
George was just one of only a few drivers in the 60'S to boast of earning a million dollars in purses in a single season.
His first 100+ win season was in 1958, and since averaged more then 140 wins a year in the 60'S.
George's favorite Horses included Air Record, Coffee Break, Chris Time, Vicki's Jet, Delightful Time, and Riviltime.
Leading driver at:
Yonkers, 62
Roosevelt Raceway, 63, 67
Pompano Park, 64
And many racetracks in the Midwest.
Major races included:
Battle of Saratoga in 1966 with Cardinal Jamie, and in 67 with Poplar Evalynda.
Battle Of Brandywine in 1965 with Rivil Time
American National 5 times
Good Time Pace in 1963 with Royal Rick, and in 65 with Bengazi Hanover.
Space does not permit listing all of the almost 50 Major Races that George Won.
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James A. Morrill.
Born in Hanover New Hampshire on March 1, 1935.
A two-year All State football player at Hanover High, where He lettered in baseball and hockey as well, and captained the football team, Jim Morrill was a natural for Harness Racing.
His Dad, Charles Morrill piled up more then 50 years in the sulky before passing.
Jimmy would say "I was born into it"
His first drive was as a sixteen year old in 1951.
It took him two years to get his first win behind the Mare "Vanity Fair Lee" in the speedy time of 2:26.
He and his Dad combined for a daily double win at Saratoga, with Jim driving the first half.
In 1962 Jimmy purchased a Horse for $400.00, and sent Him to the post for 11 wins the next year.
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Frank Ervin.
Born on August 12, 1904, in Pekin, Ill.
Frank drove his first race at the age of 16, and that same year 1920, won his first race at Charleston, Ill. with the trotter "Black Diamond".
He recalled driving in a race in which all five harness racing Ervin's were among the starters.
Frank's Harness racing credits are legend.
Had 100+ sub 2:00 wins in the 50'S and 60'S topping all drivers in that catagory.
He trained and drive the first two-year old to win more then $50,000 in one season (Our Time)
Scored 19 straight wins with "Sampson Hanover"; 20 straight with "Expression"; 22 straight with "Yankee Hanover"; and 35 straight with "Bret Hanover".
Frank had more then 1,100 wins in the 50'S and 60'S, and probally twice as many before the formation of the USTA in 1939.
"Bret Hanover" was named Horse of the Year three times.
Major races won (I will just list a few of 100+ wins)
The Acorn in 1948, 54, 55, 57, 61, 65
Battle Of Saratoga in 1965
Cane Futurity in 1965
The Debutane in 1949, 53, 58, 62
Good Time Pace in 1950
Hambletonian in 1959 with "Diller Hanover, and 66 with "Kerry Way"
Little Brown Jug in 1949 with "Good Time", 53 with "Keystoner", and again in 65 with "Bret Hanover"
The Messenge in 1965 with "Bret Hanover"
His fastest time recorded in the 60'S was with "Bret Hanover" at Lexington on October 7, 1966 in 1:53 3/5 TT
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Vincent Aquino.
Born in Buffalo, New York on March 6, 1911.
Music was a major interest with Vince Aquino, who organized his own band at Canisius (Buffalo) High, and toured the Country with major bands.
Experience with polo horses while still in school, he worked as an excercise boy for the famed Kellogg Farm, which led him into harness racing.
By the early 50'S, Vince had acquired both the interest and experience to enter the sport on a full time basis.
His first start was at Buffalo in 1952 and had his first win in 1953 at Wattsburg, Pa. Fair with "True Dillon" in 2:12.
Leading driver at Buffalo Raceway in 1967.
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Ken G. McNutt.
Born in Truro, N. S. on October 15, 1933.
Any boy living in Truro, N. S. had to be at least one of two things. a hockey player, or a horsemen. Kenny was both.
Much of his harness racing background was from observing Joe O'Brien and Angus Allen, both of whom were regulars around the track at Truno while Ken was spending his spare time with a lead-shank or a hockey stick in his hand.
Drove his first race at Blue Bonnets in 1954, and in his 2nd start at the same track, came up with a winner in "Royal Grattan", 2:16 in the mud.
Ken came to the USA in 1955, on vacation, and left the sport for 6 months, working with a boot Manufacturing company. Six months was enough, and he went back into the sport of harness racing.
Was second trainer for Theo Turcotte Sr. for some time, then spent nearly three years with Del Hanges before opening his own private stable in 1963.
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Charles J. Fitzpatrick
Born June 13, 1926 in Worcester, Mass.
Graduated David Prouty High, and Leicester Junior College. Charlie started in Harness Racing as a hobby whose Dad "always owned a horse or two to race on the ice at Brookfield, Mass."
Served with the first Infantry from 1944-1946, earning three battle stars, Sgt. stripes, and the coveted Combat Infantryman's badge, and almost was recalled for the Korean Conflict.
Drove his first race at Roosevelt Raceway in 1949, and won his first race a year later at Bay State.
Career highlights include setting two world records, and winning three $50,000 purses with "Speedy Pick"
Credits Clint Hodgins, Del Miller, and Frank Stafford as having been helpful in his career.
Charles stated that he is proud of the fact that three of his assistants, Skip Lewis, Lloyd Davis, and Bob Parkinson went on to further their career's and open private stables.
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Robert J. Brown
Born in Spring Valley, Ohio on August 14, 1924.
Before entering the sport of Harness Racing working for Bob Seabrook, Robert worked as a brakeman for the Pennsylvania Railroad.
Once firmly established in the sport, he needed little time to reach national ranking, making the UDR list in 1955, and the dash-winner's list in 1957.
Career highlights include setting a track record at Florence, Ky. of 2:01 3/5 with "Shawn Hill", developing the sensational 1966 two-year-old. "C.K. Adios", and leading the drivers rosters at Brentlawn and Kentucky Raceways.
Robert considered Scotty's Colt, Shawn Hill, Mr. Chief Forbes, R.K. Giers, and C.K. Adios the top Horses he was associated with.
Leading driver at:
Brentlawn in 1954
Lebanon 1962
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James J. Tallman.
Born July 7, 1941 in Nicholson, Pa.
Selected to the Scranton County All Star team in football, Jim Tallman graduated from Lackawana Trail High, Factoryville, Pa. in 1961, a year after he posted a sensational .556 UDRS average for his first year of Harness Racing.
After working in an auction house, and saddle horse sale, and driving at the county fairs for recreation, Jim decided to enter Harness Racing on a full time basis in 1964.
His first drive and win came with "Eleanor's Last Boy", at the Afton, New York Fair in 1960.
He won 15 of 16 starts with him that year, and 9 of 13 with "Aunt Hattie" that same season.
Jim long remembers his first two pari-mutual starts, which came at Freehold.
Aunt Hattie had won 13 straight at the Fairs, and as she was on the 'Goofy" side, he asked for, and got the 8 post, and proceeded to win handily. In her next start, she drew the rail, and refused to go to the gate.
Danger came to Jim as he drove Clipper C. who grabbed the lead in a race in the first turn only to break a line. Jim credited Bill Haughton's quick reactions with saving the entire field from piling up.
Leading driver at Vernon in 1966 (tie)
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Sacher S. Werner.
Born in Austria on December 29, 1898.
Sacher Werner's harness racing career spaned over 50 years and two continents.
In his native Austria, Sacher was employed in the purfume business.
He was at the same time, as he described it, "horse crazy", lending him in 1914 to train trotters and pacers as a hobby.
Six years, and a world War later, he made his first pari-mutual track start at a raceway in Vienna.
It still was to be two more years before that first win, scored with "Arnried" at Saint Poeltenm Austria.
His initial start in this Country in 1945 at Roosevelt, came close to finding him watching the race from the first aid station rather then in the sulky. Paddock gate guards, not knowing him, and unable to understand him, enlisted the aid of a German speaking bystander as an interpreterer, as Werner tried to enter the grounds. After a few exchanges, they rushed him to the first aid room, as the interpteter told the guards that Sacher claimed to be a driver, but must have gone crazy after losing all his money. Moments before the race, Paul Keim, assistant race secretary came to his rescue, and by the way, Sacher won the race.
Leading driver at Saratoga in 1955.
Held the world record in 1945 with "tru Single G." at 1 1/8 miles in 2:24
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Keith G. Waples.
Born in Victoria Harbour, Ontario, Canada on December 8, 1923.
Keith drove his first race at Canadian Fairs as a 12 year old.
"Grey Ghost", at Sundridge, provided his first win, and his total wins will remain forever buried in the columns of countless weekly papers in those areas where he drove during his early years.
Fans at Blue Bonnets, Dufferin, Richelieu, Thorncliffe, and Woodbine have seen him capture leading driver honors on many occasions at these major Canadian racing plants.
Fair racing fans have boasted watching him sweep entire cards.
Major wins include:
International Trot with "Tie Silk" in 1962
American Nationa at Sportsmans Park with "Choir Boy" in 1963
W.N. Reynolds with "Drummond R. C." in 1966
Battle Of Saratoga with "Zip Tar" in 1967
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William T. Hudson.
Born on July 14, 1915 at Salisbury Maryland.
Bill Hudson was an all around athletic at Wicomico High, Salisbury, Maryland, from which he graduated in 1944.
Bill went directly into Harness racing following the path of his dad, who drove professionally around the Del-Mar Va. area.
Both his first start with "Silver Coin", at Harrington, and his first win came in 1945.
Typed as an agressive, on-the-go reinsman with a tendency to go to the front, Bill was in demand as a catch driver.
Leading driver at Harrington in 1953.
Major races won are:
Grandview-Ohio Fut. in 1960 with "Jorg MacPherson"
Hanover-Hempt in 1960 with "Hogan Hanover"
NYSS in 1966 with "Molly Brook Dean" (twice), and with "Melrose Josie" in 1967.
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Richard H. Thomas
Born in Omaha, Nebraska on August 15, 1921.
His grandfather Al, and father Henry, two of harness racings greats, preceded Dick Thomas into harness racing. Little wonder that Dick, at an early age, choose to make his career in the sport.
Dick's first real experience came when, in his early teens, he spent his summers as his dad's assistant with the Hanover Shoe Racing Stable.
He made his first professional drive in 1938 at the fabled "Kite" track at Old orchard Beach in Maine.
In 1966, he developed "Ember Hanover", season's champion two year old pacing filly on the 1/2 mile ovals, and came up with "Fulla Napoleon" in 1967 who was selected by the Harness Writers as 2 year old pacer of the year.
Stabled at Brookhaven Farm, in Somerville New Jersey, it was there that he winter trained his string for the long and arduous New York City Campaign.
Leading driver at Roosevelt in 1948, and 1954.
Major races won include:
Goshen Cup in 1967, Roosevelt Fut. in 1967, Goshen Cup in 1967, and the Sheppard in 1967, all with "Fulla Napoleon".
The Arden Downs, Bloomsbrg Fair, Debutante Stakes all in 1966 with "Ember Hanover"
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James H. Cruise.
Born on October 12, 1917 in Sheperdsville, Kentucky.
He came into the sport through his father, Hardy Cruise.
Jim's first drives were made on the Kentucky-Indiana fair circuits, while still in High School, and as his father's assistant trainer.
He is known as a superb horsemen in all faucets of the business.
As a driver, knows not only his own horse, but all others in the race with him, and had that uncanny knack of waiting until the right moment to make his move.
As a trainer, he was second to none in his ability to resurect "bad-legged" horses.
Some of his favorite horses included "Mr. Bulldog", "Jimmy Creed", "Stormy Dream", and "Earl Laird"
Career highlights include winning 27 consecutive heats with the pacer "Miss Ruby"
Leading driver at:
Santa Anita in 48, 63
Roosevelt Raceway in 58, 61, 64
Hollywood Park in 62, 63
Major races won include:
Californian in 1961 with "Mr. Bulldog"
National Pacing Derby in 1949 with "Jimmy Creed"
The Nassau in 1948 with "Goose Bay"
The Golden West Pace in 1946 with "Blue Again"
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John J. Chapman
Born in Toronto, Canada on November 25, 1928.
John was destined for a career in sports, although for some time it was a question of which one. He received a hockey scholarship to St. Michael's Prep. and captained the team, But the pressure from family, and his Dad proved to much, so in 1947 he headed to the raceways.
His first starts were at Dufferin Park, where his inital victory came with "Cyrus Martin".
In his 3rd year of racing, he reached 12th place as a winning driver for the season. He maintained his top 25 ranking for 9 straight years, then left the ranks of public stable operators for a private position, with Allwood Stable. In 1962 he returned to the public operation and immediately moved back onto the list of top drivers each season.
As with most busy drivers, John has been involved in several accidents. One of the most spectacular ever was at Buffalo Raceway where he was catapulted high enough to clear the head of Ed Arthur driving in front of him, and came down in Arthurs lap.
Just prior to the 1962 season, his entire stable was wiped out in a fire.
Leading driver at:
Batavia in 1957
Yonkers in 1963
Major races won include:
Castleton Farm, Greyhound Stake, and the Horseman Stake, all in 1958 with "Diller Hanover"
Arden Downs in 1966 with "Flamboyant"
Battle Of Saratoga in 1966 with "Crack Shot"
Bronx Fut. in 1967 with "Meadow Elva"
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George B. Phalen
Born July 16, 1922, in Plaistow, New Hampshire.
For 26 years his dad, James, operated a racing stable and farm in Newmarket, New Hampshire. It was here that George learned the driving skills that added to his very evident talent. His record as a driver and trainer attest eloquently to the depth of that training.
For many New England harness racing seasons, it was a rare summer day that failed to find a Phalen finishing first, often followed by a Phalen in second, third, or fourth position.
After seasoning on the New England fair circuits, George transferred his activities to the Metropolitan New York raceways, and with considerable success, as the record indicates.
He was often ranked nationally in one or more categories, and was in demand as a catch driver, and scored well over 1,000 USTA wins in the 50'S and 60'S.
Leading driver at Yonkers Raceway in 1967.
Major races won include:
The Bronx Fut. in 1965 with "Balenzano"
NYSS in 1967 with "I'm Patty"
Reading Fut. in 1962 with "Ritzy Hanover"
Reynolds Memorial in 1962, also with "Ritzy Hanover"
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Levi B. Harner.
Born in Keelersville, Pa. on May 10, 1909.
One of the great winning drivers in his era, Levi scored his 2,000th USTA win in 1967.
He drove his first race in 1927, but had to wait three years before getting his first win, a 2:17 trip with "Slick Tass", at Washingtonville, Pa.
He father raced at matinees and fairs, accounting for Levi's early interest in the sport.
By the age of 16 he was working as a groom, then assistant trainer to Harry Whitney, followed by time with Herb Roth before opening his own public stable.
Winner of many stakes, Levi has an almost unbroken record of national rankings in all categories.
He twice led the nation in races won for a season. He seldom missed top-25 ranking on the UDR list, and often was near the top as a money winner.
Levi considered "Tar Boy" as his greatest horse, and winning the International Encore with him in 1960 his greatest race.
Leading driver at:
Buffalo Raceway in 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52, 58, 60, 65
Batavia in 46, 47, 48, 51, 58
Monticello in 66
Major races won include:
Motor City Pace with "Tar Boy" in 1959.
Reading Fut. with "Largo Hanover" in 1960, and also with "Darcie Hanover" that same year.
International Encore with "Tar Boy" in 1960.
Seven time winner at the Bloomsburg Fair from 1958 to 1967.
Reynolds Memorial with "Deputy Hanover" in 1967.
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William R. Haughton.
Born on November 23, 1923 in Gloversville, New York.
Graduated from High School in 1942, and attended the New York State Institute for Agriculture from 1943-44.
"The Squire Of Glen Head, New York" got his start helping Billy Muckle at fairground tracks around Upstate New York. He came into his own in 1949 when he was 10th leading dash winner with 77, and accounted for $114,606 in purse money.
Haughton accumulated records like some people collect stamps.
A few include: leading dash winner in the nation for six consecutive seasons starting in 1953, nation's top money winner 11 times with a string of eight straight starting in 1952, 12 times leading driver at a raceway, and over 10 major world marks in his time.
Some of his favorite horses were "Belle Action", "Galophone", "Speedy Count", "Carlisle",
"Hillsota", "Duke Rodney", "Rum Customer", "Nardin's Byrd", "Romulus Hanover", and of course "Meadow Paige".
Leading driver at:
Saratoga in 1947.
Pompano Park in 65, 66.
Roosevelt Raceway in 57, 60, 65, 66, 67.
Yonkers Raceway in 55, 58, 59, 62
Over 100+ major races won, including:
Little Brown Jug with "Bachelor Hanover" in 1956.
National Pacing Derby with "Duane Hanover" in 1958.
American Trotting Championship with "Trader Horn" in 1957.
Battle Of Brandywine with "Vicar Hanover" in 1964, and "Romulus Hanover" in 1967.
Messenger with "Belle Action" in 1956, and "Romulus Hanover" in 1967.
Reynolds Memorial 11 times from 1959 to 1967.
Bloomsburg Fair 13 times from 1952 to 1967.
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Glen O. Kidwell
Born in Hand County, South Dakota, on September 10, 1921.
While in school, football, basketball, and boxing were his sports, although he never was far from harness racing either, as his Dad raced at many Illinois fairs.
From school, he went to work on the farm where the standardbreds became his first love for entertainment.
A five year tour in the service, as a pilot instructor, intervened, but by 1952 he moved into the sulky on a part time basis, winning his first race at Maywood on June 12th with "Roxburgh Iosola"
Career highlights include countless number of $100,000 plus seasons.
Glen's favorite horses were, "Midnight Hardy", "Crystal Byrd", and "Right Time"
Leading driver at Maywood in 57, 62, 63.
Glen won the Illinois State Fair in 1958 with "Roxburgh Leonard", 1961 with "Crystal Byrd", and in 1967 with "Winning Crystal".
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Delbert Manges.
Born on December 29, 1920, in Hutchinson, Kansas.
Del was better known around the upper New York raceways then in his home area, for it was there he developed into star stature.
He first received national attention when he scored 79 wins in 1959, to rank 14th in the nation that year.
Exceeded $1,000,000 in purses by 1967, averaging over 600 starts a season, and in the 60's his UDRS was always at or near an excellant .300 level.
Leading driver at Buffalo Raceway in 1959
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Robert G. Farrington.
Born in Richwood, Ohio on July 15, 1929.
Graduated from Rushville, Ohio, High in 1948, where he lettered in baseball and basketball, Bob combined farming and brick masonry before going into the harness business.
He started in the sport as a hobby, training his own horse after work.
In 1955 he made his first starts, at Hilliard, Ohio, and his first win was a 1 1/8 mile trot, in 2:33 4/5, with "Grand Martha". Since then he has gone on to record almost 3,000 wins in the 50'S and 60'S, reaching that level in a far shorter span of time then did his three predecessors.
Bob was associated with his Dad, Louis, and two brothers, Brad and Richard.
The family operated a large horse farm at Richwood, Ohio, with it's own training track and turn out pastures.
Farrington's driving firsts include, first to win 200 races in a season, first to win 300 races in a season, first to win 300 races twice, and first to win 300 races three times.
An oustanding performance was driving six wins in six starts at Freehold during a 1963 program.
He has been involved in several disabling spills, losing parts of the season each time, yet, bounced right back to continue his phenomenal winning records.
Some of his best horses were "Bosco Rosco", "Vita Flash", "Grandpa Jim", "Dancing David", and "Easy Prom".
Leading driver at 11 major raceways from 1958 to 1967.
Bob won the Illinois State fair in 1967, The Maywood trotting derby in 1962, American trot classic in 1967, and the American Pace classic in 1967.
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James W. Jordan.
Born in Pittsfield, Illinois on March 2, 1905.
Although a native of Illinois, Jordan got his harness racing start in Maine, in 1923.
His initial drive was at Norway, and the first win, with "Frank De Forrest". came that same year, at Waterville.
It was the start of a career that was to bring him the respect and admiration of fellow horsemen, and the affection of harness racing fans.
His career was interrupted by a tour with Patton's third army during WW11, a factor that hardly slowed him down at all.
James rated "Meadow Rice" as the fastest horse he'd driven, Dale Frost the gamest, and Adio Abe, the best all around.
He had put together a career in harness racing that had touched, at one time or another, just about every milestone that there was.
He was an original member of the USTA 1,000 race winners club, he was one of only a few drivers to win more then $3,000,000 in purses in his time, and enjoyed national ranking in just about every driving category at one time or another during his illustrious career.
James held World records with "Sunny Boy" in 1941, and "Meadow Rice" in 1953.
Major races won include:
The Adios in 1952 with "Adio Abe"
Good time pace in 1952 with "Direct Rhythm"
Messenger stake in 1958 with "O'brien Hanover"
The Proximity 1n 1960 with "Meadow Farr"
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Earle B. Avery.
Born in Knowlesville, New Brunswick on February 24, 1894.
Son of a well to do farmer-lumberman, Earle started driving in match races over the main streets of Knowlesville, his home town, long before there was a track in the area.
His first race winner was in 1919, behind the trotter, "Black Peter", timed in 2:19.
For the next 33 years he successfuly combined a professional driving career with large scale potato farming on his 600 acre farm in Woodstock, N. B.
Harness Racing was his first love, and at a time when most men consider retiring to the farm, Earle retired from the farm to full time Harness Racing.
In 1955 he left the ranks of the public stable operators and joined Norman Woolworth's Clearview farm as head trainer-driver. The combination was very successful with such outstanding performers as "Egyptian Princess", "Porterhouse", "Sh Boom", "Muncy Hanover", "Bright Knight", "Winnow", and of course "Meadow Skipper".
Earl received the initial U. S. Harness Writer's Clem McCarthy "Good Guy" award in 1963, and exemplifying the personality that received the award he later, at his own expense, took part in celebrations in the Maratime Provinces, and at Rochester N. H.
At 74, he was still sharp of eye, and firm of grip. His 1967 record of 54 wins proved it.
Leading driver at :
Bay State in 1949.
Baltimore in 1951.
Laurel in 1951.
Major races listed below are just a few of his wins at a late age in life.
American Classic in 1963 with "Porterhouse" and in 1964 with "Meadow Skipper"
American Trotting Championship in 1962 with "Porterhouse"
Cane Fut . in 1963 with "Meadow Skipper"
Empire Pace in 1959 with "Bright Knight"
Lady Suffolk in 1961 with "Speedy Princess"
Proximity in 1967 with "Pompanette"
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Howard W. Parker
Born in Windsor, Vermont on December 16, 1903.
Although He seldom strayed far from upper New York raceways, Howard made a national reputation for himself.
Farming, a restaurant, and an auto delership preceeded Howard's entry into full time Harness racing. Actually, he left the sport twice, once to return to the farm for two years, and in 1956 when a knee was shatted as a result of a racing accident.
Parker seemed to have an inclination for setting world records with geldings.
In 1959 he reined "Victory Lind" to the fastest time ever (at that time) by a three year old gelding on a half mile track. Seven years later, "W.W. Smith" set a new mark for a four year old gelding, also on a half mile track.
While he seldom operated a stable that was large enough for him to score a great number of wins in a season, his strong forte was his UDRS, with his seasonal mark bordering on the sensational at times.
1955 -.451
1963 -.440
1964 -.528
1966 -.417
Leading driver at:
Saratoga in 58, 63, 64.
Orange County in 65
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Kenneth W. Heeney.
Born in Albany, New York on October 17, 1934.
A star athlete at Valatie High in New York from which he graduated in 1953, followed by a year at Trinity College, and then three years in the armed service stationed in Korea.
Ken needed little time to become established as a driver in the harness racing sport.
He started as a groom for Nick Laria, and drove his first race at Hinsdale New Hampshire in 1958, and won his first pari-mutual race in 1960.
Posted three consecutive 100+ winnins seasons in 65, 66, and 67.
Career highlights include:
Driving "Argo Can" to three consecutive invitational trot wins at Saratoga, and training the $1,500.00 purchase "Audey Hanover" from claimers to invitational status.
Ken escaped serious injury in a spectacular 5 horse spill at Saratoga in which Pete Daily received numerous injuries.
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Austin Thomas.
Born on September 18, 1921, in Temperanceville, Va.
After serving in the Merchant Marine for eight years, Austin established his own trucking business.
In 1957, he decided to enter into harness racing as a hobby, and purchased his own horse, working with Charles Carter and Wilford Evans to get the experience needed.
He qualified at Rockingham, and made his first start a week or so later at Cumberland Maine in 1961.
Later that same season, won his first race with "Keen's Jay" at Vernon.
Career highlights include winning four on a single card at Ocean Downs, and a drive in the Reynolds stake which he described "Went to the half in 2:00 2/5 and then whizzed by me so fast that I thought I was tied. "Vicar Hanover" like to have blew me off the track when he went by"
Leading driver at Rosecroft in 1964.
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Clifford R. Boyd.
Born in North Thetford, Vermont on January 25, 1936.
Graduated from Woodsville, New Hampshire High School in 1955.
Started in harness racing through an Uncle, Parker Hill, with whom he campaigned during summer vacations.
Was second trainer for Hill, Earle Avery, and Franklin Safford prior to opening his own public stable.
Drove first race in 1952, at Lyndonville, Vermont with a two year old, "Mattie Alden", and won his first race at the same track in 1954 with "Axworthy Alden" in 2:13 and a piece, fastest time of the fair that year.
Cliff had a sub two minute mile with "Royal Domain" timed at 1:59 3/5 at Pocono in 1966.
Drove "Porterhouse" to six wins, and three seconds in the first nine starts as a three year old.
Very severely injured in a training accident at Hinsdale Raceway in 1959, and was hospitalized for 10 weeks when a filly, loose on the centerfield, jumped the rail as Boyd was finishing a training mile, landing on top of him.
Leading driver at:
Rockingham in 60.
Bay State in 61.
Suffolk Downs in 61.
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William M. Myer.
Born in Bridgeville, Delaware on May 19, 1916.
Along the Eastern seaboard, the name Myer is almost synonymous with the word harness racing.
Available records show him winning 10 starts in the 1939 season, the first year the USTA was formed.
On many occasions his purse earnings topped the $100,000 level, and in 1967 had 189 wins for a total of $854,746, which was 5th in the National rankings.
Leading driver at Laurel in 48.
Major races won include:
Batavia Downs in 1966 with "Toledo Hanover"
Battle Of Saratoga in 1966 with "Romeo Hanover"
Roosevelt Fut. in 1965 with "Romeo Hanover" (world record time of 2:03)
W.N. Reynolds in 1966 with "Good Candy" (world record time of 2:04h)
Sheppard in 1965 with "Romeo Hanover" (world record time of 2:03 2/5)
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Louis A. Rapone.
Born in Caledonia, New York on July 9, 1925.
Living near the fairgrounds in Caledonia led Lou Rapone to his vocation.
Former schooling for the jockey-sized reinsman ended with grade school, and schooling in his vocation started immediately.
As a 13 year old he held his first full-time job in the sport grooming for Mark Kyler, later moving to the Carl Hatchell stable before being called into service.
He served with the Navy, in the European theatre from 1944 to 1946 participating in the Anzio, Palermo, and Normandy landings as a seaman aboard an LST. He was injured during the Palermo landing and was hospitalized for six months.
Discharged in 1946, Lou returned immediately to the sport, purchasing his first horse "Flaxey Girl" and making his first drive later that year at Batavia. His second start produced his first winner.
Credits Billy Haughton, Del Miller, and John Simpson as having been particularly helpful to him in solving the problems that developed from time to time with his horses.
Listed "Bold Colby", and "Grace Frost" as the top trotters he has handled, and "Pole Adios", and "Jimmy Norman" his top pacers.
Leading driver at:
Buffalo Raceway in 59
Major races won are:
Californian in 1964 with "Pole Adios"
Reynolds in 1959 with "Friendly Hal", and In 1963 with "Meadow Lou"
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Eddie T. Wheeler
Born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 24, 1932.
An agressive driver, with quick reflexes, whose horses were always well-conditioned, Eddie Wheeler is proof that horsemen can come from Brooklyn.
One on eight children, Ed was born in Brooklyn, grew up there, and attended Holy Cross High School.
Somehow, despite his location, Ed developed a great love for horses which led him to the standardbred industry.
He first spent a three year apprenticeship as a groom then, at the age of 17 he made his first drive, at Phoenix, and later that same year scored his first win with "Miss Della B" at Freehold Raceway.
A tipoff to his ability is provided by his record of sub 2:00 miles.
Among the horses that Ed handled were "Duke Rodney", Gold Worthy", and "Meadow Skipper".
Leading driver at:
SA in 58, 59
Hol in 58
Brdwn in 63.
Major wins include:
American National in 1963 with "Big John"
Hanover-Hempt in 1965 with "Adios Hostess"
Volomite in 1967 with "Kerry Pride"
Yonkers Fut in 1961 with "Duke Rodney"
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Delvin G. Miller.
Born on July 5, 1913 in Woodland, California.
One of harness racing's great careers started in Burgettstown, Pa., in 1930.
That's where Delvin Miller drove his first race while still in High School. A year later, at Carrollton, Ohio he scored his first win with "Rene Direct", raced timed in 2:09.
Since then there has been only one interruption in the great career that Del was carving, that a three year tour with the U.S. Army, serving with a Remount Battalion in the China-Burma theater. His Asiatic Pacific Campaign ribbons included two bronze stars.
Delvin's in-sport credits are legion. He was among the select few to score more then 2,000 wins from the formation of the USTA in 1939 to the end of the 60'S.
He marked over 50 horses with their first 2:00 mile during the 50'S and 60'S.
He has won nearly every major stake, and has led the nation's drivers one or more times in every category save one, leading dash winner for a season (He had a second).
Delvin drove races in France, Italy, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada.
He owned and operated the Meadowlands Farm.
Delvin, at one time or another, held over 20 Major World records with horses the likes of "Tar Heel", "Dale Frost", "Adios Betty", Stenographer", and "Tarport Jimmy".
Leading driver at:
Yonkers in 1957.
Wolverine of Kentucky in 1966.
Del has won more then 100 major races in his career. Here are but a few:
Acorn three times with "Lively Lady" in 1952, "Stenographer" in 1953, and with "Delicious" in 1962.
American Classic with "Dottie's Pick" in 1956.
Messinger twice with "Meadow Lands" in 1951, and with "Countess Adios" in 1952.
Greyhound Stake with "Mighty Fine" in 1950.
Cane Fut. with "Countess Adios" in 1960.
Battle Of Saratoga with "Campbeltown" in 1962.
Miller Memorial with "Knight Patrol" in 1955.
Yonkers Fut. with "Duke Of Decatur" in 1960.
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Garland J. Garnsey.
Born in Jefferson County, New York on April 4, 1909.
Never operating a large stable, this veteran began to attain national stature in the late 1940'S, reaching top-25 standings as a race winner for five seasons.
Glen reached the 1,000 win milestone mark before the end of the 60'S.
"A good race driver who can sit still", is one horsemen's appraisal of Garland Garnsey, who through the years developed a reputation as one of the best horsemen in upstate New york.
His special pride was his son Glen, who attained national rankings in his own right, and provided the Garnsey family with the honor of having harness racing's first father-son combination on the USTA'S list of thousand race winners.
Leading driver at:
Saratoga in 51
Buffalo Raceway in 53.
Major races won include:
Batavia Downs with "Brevity Hanover" in 1953.
NYSS with "Clever Ward" in 1966.
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Harry W. Burright.
Born on September 26, 1916.
Harry was from one of the premier midwestern harness racing families.
He and his brother Eugene are probably the only brothers ever to finish in a winning dead heat, as they reached the Maywood Park finish line simultaneously with "Bookmar", and Dennis Widower", September 28, 1956.
Career highlights include, topping all dash winners in 1948, when He posted his first 100+ season, and scoring a career high 183 wins in 1961.
Top horses included "Rexall Boy", "O.F.Brady", and "Irish Hal"
Became only the 7th driver in USTA history to win 2,000 races in 1968.
Leading driver at:
Aurora Downs in 48, 50, 51.
Maywood in 49, 51, 59, 61.
Sportsmans Park in 51.
Cahokia Downs in 57.
Kentucky Raceway in 57.
Egyptian in 67.
Major races won include:
Chicago Pacing Derby in 1950 with "Charming Scott"
Illinois State Fair in 1957 with "Anna Reed"
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Howard F. Beissinger.
Born in Hamilton, Ohio, on May 16, 1923.
A third consecutive Beissinger to enter into harness racing, Howard graduated from Hanover High, where he lettered in basketball and baseball before going into the sport on a full time basis.
He drove his first race in 1946, and that same year got his first win with "Lady Argo" in 2:07 plus, at Falmouth Kentucky Fair.
He's known for his ability to drive all types of horses, and was rated an excellent reinsman with the ability to rate his horses well.
Howard was also known as an exceptionally clean driver.
He operated a public stable after serving several seasons as head trainer for Byron D. Kuth.
Howard owned a 100 acre farm in Hamilton, Ohio where his main hobby was rodeo activities.
Howard held three major records in the 60'S with "Widower Creed", "Right Time", and "Tarport Lib".
Leading driver at:
Maywood in 54, 55.
Spk. in 54, 55, 56, 57.
Wstn Harn in 57.
Lexington (Wolv) in 65.
Major races won include:
Ohio Governor's cup in 1962 with "Talent Scout".
International Pace in 1960 with "Widower Creed".
Illinois State Fair in 1957 with "Lakedale Sis", and in 1967 with "John L. Purdue".
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Gene Riegle.
Born in Greenville, Ohio on June 3, 1928.
Gene is "out of a harness racing family" His father was a well known reinsman, His brother Dick was a nationally known manufacturer of driving sliks.
Gene always concentrated on quality. He was never ranked among the top race winners since 100+ win seasons became commomplace, but his UDRS was often among the top 25 for a season, and only twice in the 50'S and 60'S had it slipped below the .300 mark.
He was well known as an excellent colt developer. Some of his best were "Don Parker", "Bank Time", and "Tolson Hanover".
Gene winter trained at Greenville, Ohio, and raced a large stable throughout the midwest.
Leading driver at:
Maywood in 55.
Spk in 62, 63.
Nor in 54.
Fox Val in 63, 65.
ScD in 67.
Major races won include:
Gotham Trot in 1959 with "Mr Saunders".
Governor's Cup Ohio in 1967 with "High N Away".
Ohio State Trot in 1966 with "High N Away".
American National in 1958 with "Mr. Saunders".
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Donald H. Busse.
Born in Portage, Wisconsin on June 6, 1918.
Don not only posted 201 wins in 1963 to lead the nation, but with his 201st win, became the 25th driver to score 1,000 wins since the formation ot the USTA in 1939.
His father before him, Hugo Busse, a German immigrant and a brother owned standardbred horses, leading to his career in the sport, which started in 1933.
For many seasons he combined working on the family farm and mechanical work with agricultural machinery, with county fair driving. A serious accident with a farm tractor in the early 40's, as a result of which he lost a lung, nearly wrote finis to his career before it even got off the ground. Three fractured vertebrae in a raceway accident at Maywood Park in the fall of 1959, hardly slowed him down at all, as he broke the 100+ win barrier the following season.
Don rated "Roxburgh Bob" as his fastest horse, "Pharaoh" as the gamest, and "Frisky Al", a trotter as his best all-around performer.
Leading driver at Maywood in 1960.
Major races won"
Illinois State Fair with "Private Bud" in 1963, "Honey Reed" in 1964, "Reed's Cathy" in 1965, and "Princess Randolph" in 1966.
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James Dennis.
Born in Rexburg, Idaho on May 9, 1923.
The Dennis family was known throughout the Country; Father, Noah, Warren, and uncle, Ted, a brother, and Jim kept the Idaho-Dennis name in the public eye.
Amateur driving at fairs, contesting in rodeos, and a stint with the U.S. Air Force, 1943-46, preceeded Jim's first professional drive in 1948, which, by the way, resulted in a walk into the Santa Anita winners circle with his horse, "Perklan".
Dennis fractured many barriers with such fine performers as "Ozark Chief", "Widower Creed", "W.D. Direct", "Silver Song", "Caduceus", "Shadydale Monitor", "War Councel", "Leader Pick", "Adios Vic", and "Perfect Freight".
Dennis winter trained at Del Mar, California, and found time to pursue his golfing hobby.
James won the "Best Driver" award at the 1958 Western Harness Spring meet, and held a top position on the WHRA leading driver list for three consecutive meets in 1961, and 1962.
Leading driver at:
Chgo Dns in 64.
Egypt Trot in 65.
Hol in 60.
SA in 66
Was in 66
Major races won include:
American Trotting Champ. with "Perfect Freight" in 1967.
Good Time Pace with "Adios Vic" in 1967.
U.N. Trot with "Perfect Freight" in 1967.
Horsemen Fut. with "Adios Vic" in 1965.
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