Hoss Talk

   Who would have thought Fraser Downs would ever play host to three of the biggest names in harness racing?
   
   Hall of Fame driver Ron Waples, future Hall candidate Doug "Downtown" Brown and Ontario driver Mike Saftic, who have won more than $189 million combined in lifetime purses, are in town at the invitation of Fraser Downs general manager Chuck Keeling to drive in this weekend's inaugural Western Challenge Weekend.

   The series consists of nine-race runs over the next two days. The WCW format uses the top three drivers in B.C. and Alberta drivers' standings, while the Ontario drivers were picked for their accomplishments.
   
   The Alberta posse includes John Chappel, Serge Masse and Keith Clarke, while the B.C. contingent from Fraser Downs includes perennial champion Bill Davis, Tim Brown and Jim Burke.
   
   A point system will be used to determine the winner in the series, for which $5,000 is up for grabs. Keeling said the series became a reality out of a conversation between Phil Coleman, owner of Fast Lane Cruzin, and Ontario track announcer Frank Salive.
   
   "I just put two and two together and thought, 'If Frank was willing to help us do it, then why not,' " said Keeling.
   
   "I can't wait. To get nine drivers of this stature on the racetrack at once in Vancouver is unbelievable."
   
   Ontario looks to be heavy favourites, yet keep in mind drives are determined by random draw.
   
   Also horses win races, not drivers. But with the quality of talent this weekend at Fraser Downs, that could all change.
   
   Drivers will be available to autograph posters both Saturday and Sunday starting at 12 noon in the main lobby at the Cloverdale track.
   
   FINISH LINES
   
   B.C. Standardbred racing honour its best at the Standardbred Awards Banquet Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Newlands Golf and Country Club in   Langley. For tickets call 604-574-3633
   
 Wolski can be seen on the Sport of Kings, 10 a.m. Saturday on CKVU.

twolski@shaw.ca
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Source: Vancouver Province
E-mail Tommy Wolski at twolski@home.com