The 163rd annual Wayne County Fair in Dyberry Township saw a return to ideal weather conditions after last year’s rain-soaked event. Fans gathered on a sunny August afternoon to enjoy two days filled with exciting harness racing at the historic fairgrounds. Temperatures hovered in the upper 70s to mid-80s, drawing families eager for classic fun.
Local harness racing enthusiasts started filling the wooden grandstands by late morning on Thursday for one of the event’s most beloved traditions: the harness races. The day featured nine thrilling races with a prize pool totaling $44,000. Among the highlight moments was a standout performance by 79-year-old Artie Jones, a local legend who defied age and competition to become the oldest driver to win a heat at the fair. Jones drove his 8-year-old Bay horse, “Beyond the Lens,” to victory in a time of 2:09.3, earning a $2,100 purse and warmly greeting the crowd afterward. He expressed pride in winning in memory of his longtime friend Bobby Williams, a figure honored during the event.
Jones, who has lived in Horndale his entire life and has been involved in harness racing for over fifty years, manages a stable of around 20 horses despite admitting his age and injuries are catching up to him. He stressed that the Wayne County Fairgrounds remains the only place he drives, reflecting his deep connection to the sport and the community.
Other notable races included the Judge James Rutherford Memorial Trot for 5-year-old fillies, with Todd Chadel leading “Tally the Tab” to a win in 2:02.4, and the Lin Highlands stakes race for 3-year-old mares, where Eric Neal triumphed aboard “Skepticism” at 1:59.3. Todd Shaddel and Neal shared driving victories in the concluding heats, highlighting the competitive spirit of the day.
Jeff Farmstone, veteran announcer and race secretary, expressed satisfaction with the event, especially after last year’s weather challenges. He credited the track’s spacious layout for its continued selection as the fair’s harness racing venue and celebrated the sport’s integral role in the fair’s agricultural heritage.
Fan Take: This event underscores the enduring passion and community spirit that fuel harness racing, showcasing not only up-and-coming talent but also the lasting dedication of veterans like Artie Jones. For horse racing fans, it’s a reminder of how traditional fairs keep the sport alive and vibrant, potentially inspiring new generations to embrace harness racing’s rich legacy.
