ASHA Members President's Update

August 10, 2026

 

I have been a little slow in providing this update, but there are a few reasons for that. ASHA operations have been progressing well; however, a few matters have been on hold, which has made progress more challenging than usual this year.

First, I would like to address the rumours regarding the Century Group. I wish I had more to report, but there has been a great deal of speculation. What I can say at this point is that a potential transaction is working its way through the normal process. These matters take time and often move more slowly when government agencies are involved.

I can say this much: if the transaction is completed, it will be very positive for Alberta's horse racing industry. ASHA will continue to keep members informed as developments occur, but for now we must remain patient and allow the process to move forward.

We are now in the final weeks of our Century Downs meet, and it has been very successful, featuring some excellent racing. Throughout the summer, ASHA has been able to catch up on the purse pool, and we are now in a very strong position for the remainder of 2026.

At each board meeting, we receive an update on our financial position, and we are currently considering several possibilities for the Century Mile meet. Our next board meeting is scheduled for late August, and I will share any news with members shortly afterward.

The Track on 2 Summer Meet is in full swing and has a couple of stakes events planned. A revised Claiming Stake is already underway, and the 4-year-old NW Stakes eliminations are not far away. I encourage all of our members to take a short drive up or down Highway 2 and visit our partners in Lacombe. It is always a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.



Finally, I would like to share a personal note. Over the past weekend, we lost one of our most active and entertaining members. My brother, Dan McDougall, passed away in Vienna, Austria.

Dan had travelled there with his wife to pursue a cancer treatment that is not yet available in North America. The treatment remains in clinical trials, and unfortunately Dan did not qualify. He had been battling cancer for eight years and fought bravely throughout that journey with the support of family and friends.

While in Austria, Dan suffered a tragic accident. After careful consideration, the medical team and our family made the incredibly difficult decision to wake him from his coma and allow him to pass peacefully.

Dan loved our horses and cherished his many friendships within the horse racing industry. He would want all of you to know how much he valued his time at the track. He enjoyed sharing photos and stories and even wrote a song about life in the industry.

Our family is still grieving, and it is difficult to lose someone who embraced life with such enthusiasm. Dan was only 66 years old, but he packed an incredible amount into his life. He is survived by his loving wife, Helena; his daughter, Haley; my brother, Dick; my father; and five nieces and nephews.

Dan lived a life that many would admire. A retired high school teacher, he spent much of his later years pursuing his passions in music and acting. He made our industry better through his friendship, enthusiasm, and generosity. His passing is a loss for all of us.

I will be taking a short leave from my ASHA duties to spend time with my family and focus on the grieving process. My plan is to return to my role as ASHA President around August 20. During my absence, Jackson Wittup will serve as Interim President. Any questions that would normally be directed to me can be passed along to him.

I wish you all the best in racing as our venues begin to transition and the stakes season continues. We have enjoyed some outstanding races over the past couple of weekends.

Please take a moment to remember that life is precious. None of us know when we will draw post 10. Hug those you love a little tighter over the next few days.

Best Regards,

Don McDougall
President
Alberta Standardbred Horse Association