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.
Concerns as handle continues to decline
Handle is down 14.41% in the U.S. and over 20% in Canada. The Meadowlands and Mohawk Park are both seeing sharp declines. Brett Sturman breaks down the numbers and asks what’s next if the trend continues.
The Meadowlands is putting outsiders’ suggestions into action
The Meadowlands is testing new ideas from fans and media, including changes to post drag and CAW wagering. Debbie Little reports on how the track is navigating regulatory hurdles to bring fresh concepts to life.
The axe may fall
Trey Nosrac reflects on the sudden collapse of industries like print media and Jai Alai, drawing parallels to the precarious state of harness racing. He questions whether the sport is prepared for similar upheaval.
Owner Sam Bowie on his two great loves, hoops and harness racing
Sam Bowie, once a towering figure on the basketball court, now finds equal passion in harness racing. Murray Brown explores how Bowie balances his love for hoops with his dedication to the sport of kings.
After 46 years at Freehold Raceway, Karen Fagliarone is still going strong
Karen Fagliarone spent 46 years at Freehold Raceway, shaping its racing program and mentoring countless horsepeople. Now, with the track closed, she’s not slowing down. Victoria Howard shares how Fagliarone is embracing her next chapter.
John Campbell rates his legendary driving contemporaries
Hall of Fame driver John Campbell reflects on his legendary contemporaries, noting the close competition and exceptional skills that defined his era. Despite the minimal differences in talent, Campbell highlights Herve Filion’s tactical genius, George Sholty’s daring moves, and Mike Lachance’s intense focus.
A conversation with Jody Jamieson
Driver Jody Jamieson values developing young horses and cherishes career moments related to his father. Known for fan engagement, he’s optimistic about his colt, Paquet. Influences include Blair Burgess, Mike Lachance, and Myron Bell, and he enjoys cooking for his kids.
Tim Tetrick and Irad Ortiz, Jr. comparisons, early million-dollar races and a chat with Ron Pierce
Standout jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. and harness racing driver Tim Tetrick share remarkable parallels. Both reached $100 million in earnings young, led their sports in victories and earnings for years, and continue to set records, showcasing their exceptional talent and dedication.
Old man Miller keeps rolling along
At 59, David Miller is leading The Meadowlands’ drivers’ standings with 41 wins, outperforming younger rivals. Despite winter being a time for ‘Young Guns’ to shine, Miller’s skill and experience keep him at the top.
Howard Taylor is wrong on two counts and his ire is misdirected
Hambletonian Society CEO John Campbell clarifies that the owner’s battle is with The Meadowlands, not the Society. Campbell asserts that the Hambletonian Society has not banned Howard Taylor from its events and that Taylor’s exclusion is solely due to The Meadowlands’ decision.
A spirited debate: Is eliminating post-time drag “handle suicide”?
Dave Briggs sits down with John Campbell for a candid discussion on post-time drag, computer-assisted wagering, and the complex trade-offs racetracks face in trying to serve both on- and off-track audiences.
Mickey McNichol reflects on his many miles in harness racing
In a Bronx-born tale of friendship, determination, and trotting glory, Murray Brown shares Mickey McNichol’s journey from Yankee Stadium vendor to Hambletonian winner alongside lifelong partner Joe Caraluzzi.
Paul Kelley on a life well lived
Murray Brown chronicles the wide-ranging career of Paul Kelley, from training world champion Obrigado to mentoring Chad Brown, all while rooted in a family legacy steeped in horses and hockey.
Brent MacGrath’s life with and without ‘The Beach’
Murray Brown shares Brent MacGrath’s deeply personal story of transformation, where the loss of Somebeachsomewhere sparked not only reflection, but a renewed commitment to health, family, and the future of the sport.
Jody Riedel’s horses helped her battle cancer
Victoria Howard shares the inspiring story of Jody Riedel, a lifelong horsewoman whose love for standardbreds helped her through cancer and continues to fuel her passion for the sport.
Everybody’s wild about Heather
Heather Wilder wears many hats in harness racing, but her growing connection to Ireland’s Vincent Delaney Memorial adds an international chapter to a remarkable story still being written.
Farewell to Freehold
Rain fell, but spirits were high as fans packed Freehold Raceway one last time. Debbie Little captures the emotion, memories, and moments that defined the track’s final day.
Michigan no longer offering advance deposit wagering on horse racing
Online betting in Michigan keeps expanding, but horse racing just got left behind. Bob Duff explains why the state pulled the plug and what could bring it back.
Imagine: Every 10 minutes The Big M goes crazy
Could shorter race nights help The Meadowlands turn things around? Dave Briggs looks at how running races every 10 minutes could boost revenue, attract fans, and set a new standard for the industry.
From slapshots to sulkies, Todd Ratchford is a rising star
From pro hockey rinks across the globe to Canada’s harness racing spotlight, Todd Ratchford’s rise to O’Brien Award finalist is a story of grit, trust, and chasing what matters most.
