Chuckwagon driver eyes reinstatement
Disqualified Harden looking at all options after ‘driver error’ collision
CALGARY Chuckwagon driver Chad Harden, the first driver disqualified in Stampede history after an incident that led to the death of one horse and injuries to three others, is considering applying for reinstatement next year.
The veteran chuckwagon driver was cited for “driver error” following a collision during the seventh heat of the races on July 11. Stampede officials ruled that Harden impeded the wagon of Danny Ringuette, causing it to collide with Evan Salmond’s unit.
He was disqualified for the remainder of the 2019 Stampede and fined $10,000, and must pay an additional $10,000 to cover the cost of Salmond’s horse.
Harden also faces a potential lifetime ban, which other drivers have said is too harsh, and will not be invited to compete in the future. However, he can apply for reinstatement in any given year.
“At this time, we are looking at all of our options, including being reinstated into the 2020 Calgary Stampede Rangeland Derby,” Harden said in a statement, in which he expressed his grief for the horse’s death.
“Thanks to all my great sponsors, committees, fans and followers of the sport of chuckwagon racing that continue to reach out to me morally and financially to get me through these circumstances.”
Harden will continue to compete in the remainder of the World Professional Chuckwagon Association’s tour this year.
There were six horse deaths during this year’s western festival, marking the deadliest Stampede in almost a decade. The incidents prompted protests calling for an end to the sport and have drawn criticism of the annual event.
It was a grim week for Salmond, who lost four horses, one after the crash involving Harden and three more in an incident during the final evening of chuckwagon races.
Another horse, belonging to driver Obrey Motowylo, was euthanized after sustaining an injury during mid-week races and one other died of a “a serious internal medical condition” in what’s considered a suspected heart attack after falling to the track during a race.
The day after Stampede wrapped up, officials released a statement saying they are “committed to initiating a thorough review process surrounding chuckwagon safety,” but did not offer specifics.
Spokeswoman Kristina Barnes said the organization remains confident in its safety measures, which include veterinary checks for each horse that arrives at Stampede Park and before races.