The annual Fredericton Horsemen's Awards Banquet was all about family.
The roots of harness racing run deep in the province and it was obvious on Saturday night. The Standardbred Canada Owner of the Year award went to the dedicated Harvey family: Ralph, Jenny, Kathy, Edward and Faith. What a year they had! Ed was named Driver and Trainer of the Year, achieving success from the stable that included Aged Horse and Horse of the Year American Terror.
The Watts family -- Sheldon, Marlene, William (Bill), Terry and Kelly -- was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Over 40 years and three generations, the family's welcoming public stable has had success in developing young horses and racing in overnight events.
Other winners were:
Three-Year-Old Colt - Terra Cotta Lad
Four-Year-Old - Cruise Level
Unsung Hero - Meter Leader
Most Improved - Royal Putnam
Mare of the Year - Couleur Magnifique
Rookie Driver - Dr. Mitchell Downey
Rising Star - Colin Decourcey
Groom of the Year - Rob Sibbick
Pioneer Award - Richard (Dick) Canavan
(With files from NBSBOA)