SC Rewind: Windsor Sets New Standard

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Published: October 17, 2009 07:56 am EDT

Writer Robert Smith recreates a story that would have probably appeared 44 years ago as a watershed event was about to occur in Canadian Harness Racing history

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North America's newest and undoubtedly finest racetrack is set to open on Thursday, October 21, 1965 at Windsor, Ontario. It will be officially known as Windsor Raceway.

Several years in the making, it will be unrivaled in its features and facilities, designed specifically for wintertime racing. It boasts a lightning fast five-eighths mile Tartan covered racing surface intended to remain in first class racing condition throughout even the harshest of winter weather. The stables are all insulated, with hot and cold running water and wash stations in each section. Paved pathways connect all areas. Another extremely useful amenity will be the installation of a telephone in each barn connected with the Race Secretary's office. The grandstand is totally glass enclosed and heated, to create a summer-like atmosphere all winter long. In a word, nothing has been spared in the way of comfort for both horsemen and the paying public.

This opportunity for virtual year-round racing will serve as a tremendous boost to all horsemen as well as providing a chance for a potential market of 5 million people who live in the Windsor-Detroit area to watch harness racing all year long. Ever since the legendary Dufferin Park in Toronto closed its doors in March of 1955, the Ontario racing season has been limited to basically a Spring through Fall season. Someone once said "no race of any consequence is ever held at a time when there are no leaves on the trees"....That is all about to change.

The Raceway's opening has attracted a huge number of stables from both sides of the border. Those Canadians asking for stalls include veteran Herb Craig from Chatham, Jack Gordon, Bert Madill, Pat Crowe, Fred Goudreau, Keith and Murray Waples, Clarence Lockhart, Harold Wellwood, Wilf Duford, Merv Kirkness, Fred Roloson, Henri Filion, Brian Webster and dozens more. From the U.S. side such names as Gerry Bookmeyer, Wally McIllmurray Sr., Bud Foster, Don Keeton, Gordon Norris, Don Hall, The Merrimans - Tom & Jim Jr., Jack Betts and Bert Amos Jr. are but a few who will be on hand.

A roster of top horses includes pacers Barbara Johnston, Bobby Axland Jr., Philip Brian, Windy City, McCarr Hanover, Dusty Lightning, Championdale, Scat Time, Trotwood Bob and Billy Bayama. The list of trotters includes Ardee, Flash Gordon, Gay Worthy, Star Bell, Dutch Dillard and Penny Scot.

A rather unique part of the opening night ceremonies occurred in the afternoon of opening day. Horseman John Sutherland drove a horse across the Ambassador Bridge. It was intended to symbolize the closeness of the two Countries as well as the transfer of the racing season from Michigan to Ontario. On hand to greet the former Maritimer Sutherland and his horse, were Raceway officials Vice President Wm. Rowe and President Al Siegel, as well as parade marshal Helen Derenoski.

A great deal of the design at Windsor was a result of input by The Hon. Earl Rowe and his son William who along with Race Secretary Joe DeFrank designed virtually every detail. The Rowes' extensive racing experience became evident in all areas. They knew what fans and horsemen would enjoy. Intense attention to sight lines for the crowd from every level was important. As for the horsemen Mr. Rowe Jr. said "we were tired of washing our faces in horse pails and believed no horseman should have to do so. Everything will be first class."

Paddock judge "Black Jack" Stewart, starter Tom McDonnell, presiding judge Don Perfect and announcer Jack Riggs are all ready for the word GO. Post time is 7 p.m. for opening night Thursday, October 21, 1965.

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