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PDATE Monday, April 8, 2002
HEADLINE End of era on racing scene
BYLINE * Tom Wolski
SOURCE The Province
Two days ago, before a hall filled with friends and,
yes, adversaries, a wet-eyed Joe Horton, former director of racing for
the B.C. Racing Commission, wished everyone a fond goodbye.
After 26 years with the BCRC, his departure was caused
by antiquated age discrimination regulations that force capable people
out of work at age 65.
In 1972, Horton's initial appointment drew the ire of
trainer Sonny O'Connell, president of the Horsemen's Benevolent Protective
Association.
"For years, I used to stop by Sonny's barn to talk.
One day, he ... told me how it would have been a terrible mistake if I
had not got the job," said Horton.
Other must have felt the same way, as he was appointed
director of racing in 1992.
Horton admits making some decisions which, at the time,
didn't sit well with the racing fraternity.
He was responsible for drug testing of not only jockeys
but also those working with horses.
"As a result of that drug policy, we now have some
people in the barn area who otherwise wouldn't be there -- who are now
leading constructive and useful lives," said Horton, who always
knew that his wasn't a how-to-win-friends position.
"He's been a terrific guy for our industry. He had
a tough job and not everyone loved all his decisions but he made them with
convictions," said Phil Heard, general manager at Hastings Park.
Horton leaves the sport he loves with a wealth of fond
memories.
"Looking back, I will miss many of the Damon Runyon
characters like Jack the Rake, Two-Beer Jack and Gyp the Blood, to name
a few -- people who always made you smile," said Horton.
Good luck, Joe. And thanks for the memories!
FINISH LINES: Former West Vancouver residents John
Toffan and Trudy McCaffery's Came Home is the Kentucky Derby favourite.
... Hats off to Hastings Park for making this year's Thoroughbred Awards
as outstanding as ever... Named B.C.'s Horse of the Year was Linda
and Red Smith's Fancy As. "This truly is a top race horse," said a delighted
Red Smith.
Tom Wolski can be seen on the Sport of Kings, 10 a.m. Saturdays on
CKVU.
twolski@shaw.ca
Source: Vancouver
Province
E-mail Tommy Wolski at twolski@home.com
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