Ontario trainer Lane dies at 55

Trainer William Lane, a longtime Ontario horsemen, died at age 55 on Wednesday following a long battle with cancer.

Lane took out his groom's license in 1973 and his trainer's license in 1980, saddling his first winner at Fort Erie Racetrack.

He also played many other roles during his 40 years on the racetrack in Ontario, including stints at Woodbine as an assistant stallman and as a mutuel clerk and jockey agent.

Lane's survivors include his wife, trainer Joan Mitchell, and children Mavis and Matthew.

A memorial service will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, at the Fort Erie Legion Hall, located at Garrison Road and Central Avenue.