Premier McGuinty honours Sandy Hawley

Sandy Hawley presented with a special certificate by Dr. Shafiq Qaadri, MPP Etobicoke North, on behalf of the Premier and Woodbine Entertainment Group President and C.O.O. Nick Eaves.Sandy Hawley, who will join seven other high-profile jockeys in The Living Legends Race, on October 18 at Santa Anita, was presented with a special certificate from Premier Dalton McGuinty, Wednesday evening at Woodbine. Premier McGuinty recognized Sandy’s renowned career and his contributions to thoroughbred racing.

The presentation was made after the running of the second race by Dr. Shafiq Qaadri, MPP Etobicoke North, on behalf of the Premier and Woodbine Entertainment Group President and C.O.O. Nick Eaves. Dr. Qaadri offered his own recognition to Sandy and well wishes for the Legends Race.

“This is a tremendous surprise and I am deeply honoured and grateful,” said Hawley. “I would like to thank both Premier McGuinty and Dr. Qaadri for this. It means a great deal to me. Thank you so much for this.”

“It is a privilege to honour such an extraordinary gentleman, who is an ambassador not only for horseracing, but for Ontarians and all Canadians,” said Qaadri.”

Said Nick Eaves, “Everyone wishes you the best in the Living Legends Race. We will be cheering you on every step of the way.”

Held in conjunction with racing’s new Legends on Tour as well as the Breeders’ Cup, Hall of Fame jockeys set to compete in Santa Anita’s unprecedented race are, in descending order of age: Angel Cordero Jr., 65; Jacinto Vasquez, 64; Sandy Hawley, 59; Pat Day, 55; Chris McCarron, 53; Jerry Bailey, 51; Gary Stevens, 45, and Julie Krone, 45. Their average age is 55.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing some old friends and getting back in the saddle again,” said Hawley, who will ride Tribal Chief in the race. “You couldn’t ask for a better group of riders to compete against. The trash talking has already begun. It should be a lot of fun.”

The note from the Premier follows.

***

On behalf of the Government of Ontario,
I am delighted to congratulate

SANDY HAWLEY

On your outstanding career as a race rider

October 18, 2008

Mr. Hawley, I am very pleased to add to the many tributes being paid to you as you are recognized as a world-renowned jockey and for your contributions to thoroughbred racing.

During your 30-year racing career, your victories earned you recognition at both the national and international level. From your beginnings as North America’s top apprentice, to becoming the continent’s leading race-winning jockey, your more than three decades of devotion to the sport you love serve as a source of pride and inspiration to your family, friends, Ontarians and racing enthusiasts around the globe.

Take pride in knowing that you have helped – and continue to help – thoroughbred racing to reach new heights and, in doing so, have greatly raised the profile of this thrilling sport. Please accept my best wishes for much ongoing success and fulfillment.

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