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The Legend category of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame was originally introduced as a four-year millennium project to honour Canadians who had a significant impact on horse racing at home or on the International scene or those from the International community who had a significant impact on Canadian racing.
After the initial run, the category was paused for several years before being revived in 2013 to acknowledge additional figures who played pivotal roles in the development of Canadian horse racing. The most recent additions to the category were Dan Patch in 2019 and Man o’ War in 2020.
In recent years, the CHRHF has undertaken extensive historical research to uncover previously overlooked individuals and horses – those “Unsung Heroes” and “Trailblazers” whose contributions helped shape the sport in Canada. As a result, the Legends category has been reactivated once again, with new inductees set to be honoured in 2025.
The Legend Committees have voted to induct two inductees in 2025.
2025 Standardbred Legend Inductee
Roberta Marie “Bobbe” Huntress
As an American who made a lasting impact on Canadian harness racing, Roberta Marie “Bobbe” Huntress spent much of her ground-breaking career north of the border.
On the track, she was celebrated for her sharp driving skills and standout performances – most notably her remarkable season with Wee Irish and a stunning streak of six consecutive wins with Wee Ginger at Connaught Park in 1955, when she was just 19.
She returned to Connaught Park in 1959 and continued to compete across Canada, setting track records at Old Woodbine in 1961.
2025 Thoroughbred Legend Inductee
Wilma Kennedy
Wilma Kennedy was a proud Canadian horsewoman from Winnipeg, Manitoba, whose pioneering spirit shattered barriers for women in Thoroughbred racing – particularly in Western Canada. Born Wilma Patricia Chesney in 1910, she began her career at Polo Park, her hometown track, where she made a name for herself as a fearless and capable trainer.
In a time when the racetrack backstretch was virtually off-limits to women – aside from a few trainers’ wives – Wilma not only entered the male-dominated world of horse racing, she transformed it.
As one admirer put it, “Wilma didn’t just break barriers, she exploded them.”
Complete Biographical information for both 2025 Legend Inductees can be found here.
The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame 2025 Legend Inductees will be formally inducted as part of the organization’s Induction Gala, scheduled to take place at the Mississauga Convention Centre the evening of Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
For information about the CHRHF Class of 2025 or to purchase tickets to attend this year’s Induction Gala visit:
From the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame
