The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame sends our sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of James (Jim) William Wright who passed away in Victoria, BC January 31, at the age of 91. Throughout much of Mr. Wright’s rich, full life, horse racing played a significant role, starting in 1950 with the purchase of his first horse, Paul Welsh.
It was the beginning of a lifelong love of horse breeding and racing culminating with his induction into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 1983. He was also awarded the Sovereign Award as Man of the Year by the Jockey Club of Canada. At the time it was stated that few individuals in Canada have had such a successful career in the horse racing industry. Jim’s association with horse racing spanned five decades.
In 1974, Jim and and his wife Hazel fulfilled a dream of owning their own racetrack. For the next 20 years, they owned and operated Assiniboia Downs racetrack and Elmingo Stables. When most people are thinking of retirement, Jim and Hazel worked every day to promote horse racing and pass along their love of the sport.
Although it is called The Sport of Kings, they treated everyone from stable hands to company presidents with equal respect. Jim was never afraid of hard work and his work ethic has left an enduring mark on his family, friends and associates.
Additional information on the role Jim Wright played in Canada’s horse racing industry can be found at: James William Wright