Assiniboia Downs Board Chairman Harvey Warner died unexpectedly on March 9, according to a statement from Race Canada.
Warner’s contributions to the equestrian industry in both Manitoba and Canada are immeasurable and will leave a lasting impact on the sport forever. He was one of the original architects of the non-profit Manitoba Jockey Club in 1993, which rescued the Assiniboia Downs and the racing industry from the bankruptcy of former private owner Jim Wright. .
A lifelong horse lover and involved in the industry, both in equine ownership and in industry leadership before assuming his role on the MJC Board of Directors, Harvey previously led the Guardians Association and the Knight’s Mercy as their president. In 1989, Warner, along with his steady co-owners, achieved top results on the track at the Assiniboia Downs by winning the 1989 Manitoba Budweiser Derby with the Rough Catch.
A recent testament to Harvey’s contributions to equestrian sport is his national recognition of the Special Sovereign Award in 2020.
Warner is survived by his wife Edie, daughters Sheri and Michelle, and their families.
