HARNESS RACING IS ALIVE AND WELL ON P.E.I.

The 60th running of the Gold Cup and Saucer race was a success and its many organizers and contributors deserve full accolades. Harness racing is the hallmark of the Old Home Week activities, and although the horse population is reduced and made for challenging classifications, the races were competitive and without incident.

First-time participant Ron Cushing was complimentary about Islander hospitality and the beautiful facilities at Don MacRae’s place in Vernon Bridge. Ron was seen casually walking through the crowds early Saturday evening, probably to think about the race and settle any nerves he might have. Jody Jamieson’s display of his driving skills Saturday night was a pleasure for everyone to see.

Harness racing is alive and well on P.E.I., but the same cannot be said about racing in our neighbouring provinces in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. It is disappointing that industry, municipal and provincial representatives in those provinces do not come together to take advantage of the benefits that are derived in P.E.I. Harness racing and its related activities contribute significantly to our economy by employing several hundred workers and compliment our agriculture, tourism and hospitality sectors.

The horse population plays an important role in the operations at the Atlantic Veterinary College, and rural communities benefit through the purchase of feed and supplies and the activities held at the five matinees tracks.

Hopefully someday soon leadership in our neighbouring provinces will realize the benefits and the potential they are missing. In addition to developing economic activity in their province, a viable Maritime industry concept would also develop.

Michael O’Brien, Charlottetown