Hubert MacLean (abt. 1918 - bef. 2018)

Born about 1918 in Ontario, Canada [uncertain]

Problems/Questions Profile manager: Jo-Anne Zeron-Benes [send private message]

Biography

Hugh was born abt.1918 or After.. in ___? Assuming ~(Ontario)

One of the most amazing drivers of the distinguished group in attendance was the remarkable Hugh MacLean. Father of renowned Western Fair great Ray MacLean, Hugh had overcome the loss of one hand and learned to drive with a mechanical hook device. One really has to drive a half ton animal and four foot wide sulky in, out, and around a large field of horses at high speed to appreciate the skill involved. Hugh managed this with a fearless courage and competitiveness that was truly inspirational. Hugh had a gruff demeanour and a deep gravelly voice that almost intimidated the younger drivers. Anyone who heard him yelling at his competitors during the heat of a racing battle will remember the chilling sound of that raspy voice. Like the lessons learned from those great horsemen, the memory of Hugh MacLean will be one of the fond memories of another era in horse racing that will always remain strong with me. Courtesy Of Scott Rowe for the Georgian Downs Newsletter

Harness Link^[1]

1959 or 1967

Many years ago a special night was held at Hanover Raceway to pay tribute to a number of veteran horseman who were instrumental in keeping the sport alive through 'leaner' times. These veteran horsemen pictured with a vintage high wheeled sulky were among those who helped Hanover start up night racing over 50 years ago. = 1967 ? as of now 2017

Hugh MacLean

From left is Elmer Fritz, Hugh McLean, Jacob Geisel (seated in high wheeler) and Frank Carnahan

Standardbred Canada^[2]

Acknowledged by Jo-Anne Zeron

Sources

1. ↑ Harness Link [1] for MacLEAN, Hugh.
2. ↑ Standardbred Canada [2] for MacLEAN, Hugh.