Joe Malone is counting down the days until he can get his license to drive horses

by Chris Lomon

It’s not just another date on the calendar for Joe Malone. It’s the date – the day he turns 18, the moment he becomes eligible to apply for his driver’s license, and the first step toward fulfilling a lifelong dream rooted in family, heritage, and an unwavering love for horses.

Growing up in Delmar, DE — a town famously dubbed “The Little Town Too Big for One State” — Malone was practically raised in a barn. Literally.

“I was at the barn when I was in diapers, just hanging around because I loved horses,” said the fourth-generation horseman, whose family has competed on the Delaware and Maryland circuits over the years, and on occasion, in Pennsylvania. “I started out helping my dad [Brian Malone] with the horses. I would help my dad and my grandfather [Richard Malone, Jr.] put the horses away and I learned a lot from them and my brother Declan.”

That early exposure shaped not only Joe’s knowledge of horses but also his deep respect for the hard work that goes into caring for them.

“When I first sat behind a horse, I loved the feeling, and I knew I wanted to drive and train,” he said. “I also learned about the care that goes into horses and what you need to do to keep them healthy. It became more than just a hobby for me; it is something I love to do.”

It’s also why Joe has had his eye on that mid-February day for a while.

“I will be 18 in 2026, which is when I can apply for my driver’s license,” he said. “I have been counting down the days for a long time.”

Now, a little less than nine months before he blows out the candles on his 18th birthday cake, Joe has much to look forward to with his racing future.

But he isn’t just waiting for the day to arrive – far from it.

Instead, Joe — whose great-grandfather Richard Malone, Sr. was also involved in harness racing — is ramping up his efforts as he prepares for the next chapter of his life.

“My connection to the horses has grown every year,” Joe said. “I love being out on the track, jogging any type of horse. It is an adrenaline rush and gives you a special feeling. I am continuing to work hard and to increase my knowledge about each horse I work with.”

He’s putting in the work, gaining hands-on experience and learning from mentors — horse and human — at every turn.

At just 12 years old, he began working with Doyouseewhatisee, a pacing mare trained and owned by his grandfather. Bred by Winbak Farm, the daughter of We Will See—Fun Filly was a $15,000 yearling sale purchase and became Joe’s first training project.

“She was a 4-year-old mare when we got her — my grandfather let me train her in time — and she was the first one I ever trained,” Joe said. “I learned a lot from her, including how to time a mile correctly and how to set a bit in a horse’s mouth. It was a very fun experience and I’m glad my grandfather and dad gave me an opportunity at that age.”

He also learned essential care principles: hydration, nutrition, hoof care – all part of the foundation his family laid for him.

Joe is looking to put himself in the best position for success when he launches his own career.

“I would love to be a driver and train some when I turn 18; it is something I have always wanted to do,” he said. “I have always wanted to drive horses. I love being out there on the track. I have driven at a couple of fairs and done alright. But I know it is something I will never get bored of and that I will do for as long as I can.”

And while his passion mirrors that of his family, Joe is crafting his own identity – starting with his driving colors: red, black, and a touch of white.

“I was going to go green and black because my whole family has green, but I have always liked red and black together,” he said. “I always imagined having those as my colors.”

Fashion statements aside, Joe will continue to lean heavily on the teachings of those closest to him.

“I am very fortunate to have so many people supporting me, helping me every step of the way, and giving me the chance to do well,” he said. “I listen to everything they share with me. That is very important for me if I want to do well in this industry. It has been said a lot, but if you listen, you can always pick up something new.”

Just like when he has working in the barn of trainer Scott Warnick, who is based at Shenandoah Downs.

Joe began working for Warnick — his wife Debbie is executive director of the Virginia Harness Horse Association — last fall at Shenandoah and is back again with him this spring at the oval in Woodstock, VA.

“I started paddocking for Scott — my brother Declan introduced me to him — last year,” Joe said. “I started working in the winter for Scott, which was great, too. The more people you learn from, the better off you are.”

His enthusiasm extends beyond the barn. Whether he’s paddocking, jogging horses, or just being around the sport, Joe is all in.

“I will be at the track, paddocking horses for my family or for Scott, which I enjoy a lot,” Joe said. “I just really like being around the horses and feeling the rush that comes with racing.”

And when he’s there, his thoughts often drift toward what lies ahead.

Yes, there will be birthday presents. But for Joe, the biggest gift of all will be stepping onto the track as a licensed driver – the proverbial icing on the cake.

“I can’t wait for Feb. 16,” he said. “I’m always thinking about it and doing everything I can to prepare for that day. Being able to get out there and drive like the other guys; it’s going to be an amazing day.”