Top Stories
HRU Spotlight
Shortly after the end of each month, we will update the top 5 stories for that month. Select the title bar below to see the top 5 stories for each month this year. The 5 stories are displayed in random order to give each of our talented HRU writers some extra exposure.
-
Richard Moreau appeal hearing on the verge of a decision in Ontario
ByMelissa Keith Posted onA pivotal decision looms in the Richard Moreau case as final arguments clash over science, procedure, and fairness. With a career hanging in the balance, the outcome could send shockwaves through the sport and beyond.
-
A conversation with fourth-generation horseman Joe Bongiorno
ByMurray Brown Posted onBorn into one of harness racing’s most storied families, Joe Bongiorno is carving his own path. From early struggles to managing a top stable, he opens up about growth, balance, and what drives him forward today.
-
It’s all about family for horseman Dan Altmeyer
ByMurray Brown Posted onFor decades, Dan Altmeyer has balanced success in harness racing with a deep commitment to family. As the sport evolves, the respected horseman reflects on its challenges, his stable’s philosophy, and the legacy now carried forward by the next generation.
-
The nine lives of Mark MacDonald
ByMelissa Keith Posted onMark MacDonald has endured more setbacks than most, yet he keeps coming back. As he prepares for another return, the veteran driver opens up about resilience, perspective, and why this next chapter might mean more than ever.
-
One master scheduler for North America could save harness racing
ByDave Briggs Posted onCould one bold idea reshape the future of harness racing? A proposal to centralize scheduling across North America is gaining attention, promising stronger handle, tougher decisions, and a level of coordination the sport has never seen before.
-
Jason Ryan is a nomad no more
ByMatthew Lomon Posted onJason Ryan’s journey has taken him across tracks and borders, chasing opportunity wherever it led. Now, after years on the move, the accomplished reinsman has found a formula that’s paying off, and it’s changing everything.
-
Mike Lachance remembers Carmine Abbatiello
ByBob Heyden Posted onMike Lachance reflects on the legacy of Carmine Abbatiello, sharing personal stories, admiration, and the influence of a true original. As tributes pour in, one thing becomes clear, his impact on the sport still resonates deeply.
-
Hawthorne remains in a coma
ByNeil Milbert Posted onHawthorne’s once-busy harness meet now sits silent, tangled in financial strain, regulatory trouble, and growing uncertainty. With mounting debts and stalled plans, industry voices warn this situation runs deeper than it seems, and the fallout could reshape Illinois racing.
-
Stateside shots came quickly for Canadian driver Colin Kelly
ByDebbie Little Posted onColin Kelly’s rise at The Meadowlands has turned heads in a hurry. From steady work to a breakout weekend, the Canadian driver is making the most of every chance, and proving he belongs on one of racing’s biggest stages.
-
Is pari-mutuel betting becoming a bit obsolete?
ByJohn Berry Posted onPari-mutuel wagering faces growing scrutiny as shifting habits, shrinking pools, and bettor frustrations spark debate. From longtime players to industry voices, opinions clash on what’s next, and whether fixed odds could offer racing the spark it desperately needs.
-
A shakeup in the driving colony has produced big payouts and an interesting dynamic at Northfield
ByBrett Sturman Posted onDan Noble’s full-time move to Northfield has flipped the script. Big favorites are battling, longshots are cashing, and Aaron Merriman’s grip on the colony suddenly looks vulnerable. With payouts soaring and rivalries heating up, bettors are watching every mile a little closer.
-
New track rule at Yonkers yet to make an impression
ByBrett Sturman Posted onYonkers’ new 30-second second-quarter rule was meant to spark action. One week in, the results look familiar. Wire-to-wire winners still dominate, outside flow is scarce, and slow fractions persist. If change is coming, it has yet to show up on the stopwatch.
-
Racing halted in Chicago as Hawthorne bounces checks to horsepeople
ByNeil Milbert Posted onFinancial turmoil has forced racing to a standstill at Hawthorne, where bounced checks to horsemen have sparked outrage and regulatory action. With licenses in limbo and casino promises still unfulfilled, serious questions now surround the future of Chicago’s last racetrack.
-
Jean-Michel Bazire speaks after training accident at Grosbois that could end his career
ByThomas Hedlund Posted onFrench icon Jean-Michel Bazire has broken his silence after a devastating training accident at Grosbois left him with neurological injuries and an uncertain future. As his son Nicolas steps into the spotlight, the sport braces for a winter without its dominant force.
-
Illinois situation seems dire
ByNeil Milbert Posted onIllinois harness racing is hanging by a thread. With Hawthorne’s finances unraveling and races repeatedly canceled, horsemen are pinning their hopes on HB 2724 to open the door for a Decatur racino. For many, the spring session feels like a last stand.
