Premier Pat Binns today congratulated Provincial Treasurer Mitch Murphy on being awarded the Cam Fella Award by Standardbred Canada for meritorious service to harness racing. This is only the second time since its inception in 1997 that the award has been merited.
"Mitch Murphy has been a strong and effective voice at the provincial and regional level for harness racing," stated the Premier. "His efforts have resulted in ongoing government support for the provincial harness racing industry, which we see as a good investment. He has consistently pointed out the importance of the industry to the Province, and the opportunities that exist for our region."
Prince Edward Island has a long and distinguished history in harness racing, and has been well known as the birthplace of individuals such as Joe O'Brien, Wally Hennessey, Paul MacKenzie, and Mark MacDonald, who have all achieved national prominence. This province has also hosted several feature events, such as the Gold Cup and Saucer, Lobster Carnival, Atlantic Breeders Crown, and the World Driving Championships.
Binns noted that having Minister Murphy recognized by Standardbred Canada at this level will further enhance Prince Edward Island's reputation on a national basis.
The Cam Fella Award is truly national in scope, in that a committee of sixteen individuals from across Canada representing the Standardbred community vote by secret ballot.
Named in honor of the World Class Standardbred horse, Cam Fella, the award recognizes extreme meritorious service to the Canadian harness racing industry. Standardbred Canada established the Cam Fella Award in 1997 and, fittingly, its namesake was the first recipient acknowledging Cam's unparalleled contributions to the sport of harness racing.
Within the region, Murphy has been named Atlantic Post Calls Man of the Year twice, as well as receiving the inaugural Kentucky of Canada award from the PEI Standardbred Horseowners Association in 2002.
For more information, see the Web site: www.standardbredcanada.ca/obrien/camfella03pr.html