Assiniboia Downs chairman Harvey Warner dies

Harvey Warner, the Canadian racing executive who received a Special Sovereign Award in 2020, died Wednesday, according to Assiniboia Downs, where he was chairman of the board.

Warner served on the board of Assiniboia Downs for more than 20 years. He was credited with rescuing the track from bankruptcy in 1993, forming the Manitoba Jockey Club with several partners in order to keep the track running. A Thoroughbred owner, Warner also was the former president of the Manitoba Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association before forming the MJC.

“The contributions he made to the horse racing industry in both Manitoba and Canada were immense and will leave a lasting impact on the sport forever,” a statement from Assiniboia Downs said.

The Special Sovereign Award is considered Canada’s highest honor. In 1989, Warner and several co-owners won the Manitoba Derby with Rough Catch.

Warner is survived by his wife, Edie, and two daughters, Sheri and Michelle.