Builder

“A life of harness racing” is the best way to describe Gabe Trahan. In 1955 he began his career as an owner, trainer and driver of standardbred horses. One notable achievement recorded during his career occurred when he chalked up five wins on the same card in 1961.

In 1962 he was appointed presiding judge at Piste Laviolette (Trois Rivieres). From 1963 to 1973 he was a supervisor for the Canadian Trotting Association. His duties included those of a mediator in horsemen’s disputes, representative for the Canadian Trotting Association at official track openings and was called upon to train judges across Canada. In 1972 he was the presiding judge for Canada and the following year he was appointed general manager of Sherbrooke Raceway, a position he held for two years. From 1974 to 1982 he was general manager at Trois Rivieres.

From 1982 Gabe remained active in the industry, implementing the varied talents, experiences and extensive knowledge he gained throughout his career.

In 1986, at the age of 68, he acted as a judge. He was also a member of the Canadian Trotting Association’s Rules Committee. Trahan celebrated his 90th birthday on January 29th, 2007. At age 90 he was still visiting horsemen almost daily at Trois Rivieres and continued to go snowmobiling and visiting his fishing camp in northern Quebec whenever possible.