Paul Macdonell, Marc Campbell, Bill Davis compete in National Driving Championship at Fraser Downs

Canada's top harness racing drivers compete in BC today

March 21, 2009

BY YVONNE ZACHARIAS, VANCOUVER SUN

When most of us hear the words “some beach somewhere,” we think of palm trees, silky white sand and a seamless vista of blue — blue water and blue sky.

Not Paul McDonell. Canada’s top harness driver thinks of the trusty steed called Somebeachsomewhere, who has carried him to victory after victory.

With more than $90 million in lifetime earnings as a harness driver, the mild-mannered man from Guelph, Ont., has soared to riches and fame in the dusty, insular world of the race track, although the average Canadian wouldn’t know it. Harness driving is one of those niche sports that largely flies below the radar in this country, unless you live in the Maritimes or parts of Ontario.

Ironically, Canada is recognized worldwide for producing hardworking drivers and prowess in the sport.

Vancouverites will get a chance to see McDonell — as well as seven other top harness drivers, who have flown here from across the country — at the 2009 national driving championship at Fraser Downs in Surrey today. It marks the first time the seminal competition will be held in B.C. The winner will represent Canada at the world championship in Norway in May.

Full online article on Canada's Nationa Driving Championship for standardbred horses


National Driving Championship Harness Driver Profiles

• Gilles Barrieau
• Marc Campbell
• Bill Davis
• Brad Forward
• Guy Gagnon
• Kelly Hoerdt
• Paul MacDonell
• Daniel Potvin