Hastings‘ Weekly Winter Round-Up
The wet and milder weather helped dispatch the dreaded snow in double-quick fashion — and just in time to welcome the horses back to Hastings for pre-season training
And we’re back!
Hastings opened for pre-season training this week, with the powerful Steve Henson barn among the first to get going ahead of the 2024 campaign.
Turf Paradise Gets Underway
After months of uncertainty, Turf Paradise in Arizona finally got back to business this week. The 57-day meet runs through to May 4. Keep an eye out for local horses and trainers. For instance, KHAIKY’S COMMAND, a name familiar to Hastings racegoers, is entered to run next week and represents former Hastings’ handler (and daughter of Hastings’ trainer Patty Leaney), Jamie Pearman Cruz.
A Lick of Paint
Our Sincere Condolences
Retired B.C. Thoroughbred trainer Donald Preston Richardson passed away on January 22, 2024. He was 89.
Originally from Texas, “Donny” enjoyed a successful riding and training career throughout the western US and Canada, with much of his career spent at what was then Exhibition.
Donny, of course, was trainer of arguably the best BC-bred horse of all time – George Royal, whose statue graces the paddock at Hastings Park.
One of Richardson’s owners, Mat Monaco, sent this tribute.
“I was very saddened to hear that another excellent horseman, as well as a respected and humble human being, has passed.
Our partnership of Nebssor Racing, Mat Monaco and Lori Brickman enjoyed success at Hastings, Southern California and shipping to Alberta with horses trained and groomed by Donny and Cee.
One thing for sure – Priority One was providing excellent care for all the horses and cats residing in their shedrows!
On numerous visits to Hastings and Santa Anita – win or lose, would be followed by breaking bread at the Rusty Gull in North Vancouver and a variety of Mexican restaurants in the Arcadia area.
Without doubt our biggest thrill in 50 years of involvement in racing, was provided by the Richardsons in winning the 2004 Edmonton Distaff at Northlands with ICE GIRL after being claimed two starts earlier. All of the other wins along the way will always be cherished.
Donny was an honest, knowledgeable, kind and respected gentlemen with a great smile. We can not remember him ever complaining much about anything. A life well lived. Condolences to MaryBeth, his friends and all who knew him.”
New Stride News
Bloodhorse Daily Headlines — Wednesday, January 31
