MacDonald reaches historic milestone

MILTON, December 9, 2023 – James MacDonald, Canada’s leading harness racing driver in wins and earnings, surpassed $10 million in seasonal earnings on Saturday night at Woodbine Mohawk Park.

MacDonald became the first Canadian based driver since Jody Jamieson in 2011 to drive the winners of $10 million in a single season. He nearly reached the mark in 2022, finishing at $9.9 million.

The significant milestone was within reach for MacDonald entering Saturday’s card, as he sat just over $10,000 away from $10 million. After winning the evening’s first race with Saulsbrook Ian (Betterthancheddar) in a Valedictory Series division, MacDonald picked up cheques in two of his next three drives to go over $10 million.

MacDonald currently leads Woodbine Mohawk Park and the nation in wins and earnings for 2023. The Guelph, Ontario resident has won 405 races in Canada this season, 15 more than nearest rival Tyler Borth.

MacDonald is a strong contender to win his third consecutive Keith Waples Driver of the Year Award at the 2023 O’Brien Awards. At the end of the month, MacDonald will secure his third consecutive Woodbine Mohawk Park driving title.

Following Saturday’s racing, MacDonald sits at 2023 season totals of 407 wins and $10,004,950 earned.

For a recap of the night’s card with replays, click here.

For complete race results, click here.

by Mark McKelvie, for Woodbine Entertainment