The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame extends sincere condolences to the McNiven Family and Killean Acres.

“Longtime breeder and owner Don McNiven of Ingersoll, Ont., died on Saturday, Jan. 18. He was 81.

Mr. McNiven played a major role in the harness racing industry. Although he worked for 35 years in the Ingersoll post office, he helped establish Killean Acres along with his father Robert and brothers Bob and Jack in the 1950s. Over the years, Killean stood three of Ontario’s most popular stallions — Frisco Byrd, Dallas Almahurst and Run The Table — and bred numerous standout performers in the 60-year history of the farm.”

Killean Acres stallion Run The Table was inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 2006. That August, he greeted guests as they arrived to the Induction Ceremony from his temporary stall at the entrance to the Mississauga Convention Centre (below) and later, was walked through the ballroom on a red carpet for guests to honour his accomplishments.

“Mr. McNiven was also pivotal in establishing the Ontario Sires Stakes program, sat on various committees throughout the industry, and wrote a weekly ‘Horse Chatter’ column in the Ingersoll Times.

Mr. McNiven was a breeder, an owner and an avid horse enthusiast who will be greatly missed by many. He is survived by his brother and best friend Jack, son Terry and numerous nieces, nephews and one grandchild.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Mr. McNiven’s memory to St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund or Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society (cheques accepted) would be appreciated.” (SC) Standardbred Canada