Tag Archives: Johnny Longden

Alfred G. Tarn: Rosser Pig Farmer turned World Class Horseman

[caption id="attachment_12233" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Alfred Gilbert "Alf" Tarn. A world-class horseman from Manitoba.[/caption] by Bob Gates Father Time has been cruel to the memory of Alfred Gilbert "Alf" Tarn. Who? That’s the point of this week's time tunnel flashback. There was a time when it was inconceivable that the name Alf Tarn would fade into…
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Johnny, Eddie and Willie – Legends of the Turf at Assiniboia Downs

[caption id="attachment_7600" align="alignnone" width="780"] Assiniboia Downs jockey colony in 1962 with Eddie Arcaro.[/caption] by Bob Gates Over the years the Downs has played host to all sorts of dignitaries, from professional athletes to royalty, but some of the most popular guests have been heroes from the Sport of Kings. There have been many, but none…
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When Hollywood came to Winnipeg to race, those were the days!

[caption id="attachment_5736" align="alignnone" width="780"] Well Caught wins for Don Carlos. June 29, 1951. Polo Park.[/caption] by Bob Gates [caption id="attachment_5734" align="alignright" width="218"] Anita King[/caption] Who knew? Once upon a long time ago Whittier Park and Polo Park race tracks were playgrounds for the rich and famous. Hollywood types from the early to mid-1900s made regular…
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