Veteran driver Paul MacDonell wins final race of his illustrious career

Veteran harness racing driver Paul MacDonell concluded his career by winning his final race at Woodbine Mohawk Park. MacDonell, 63, guided his own horse Ungawa to victory, marking his 5,786th career win. Born in Oshawa, Ontario, MacDonell began racing in 1981 and earned over $127.9 million, with 46,315 career starts. He also won 138 races as a trainer, amassing more than $2.79 million.

MacDonell was inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 2020. While his career was defined by his partnership with Somebeachsomewhere, who won 20 of 21 starts and earned over $3.2 million, MacDonell's decision to retire was prompted by the physical toll of years in the sport. Despite his retirement, MacDonell remains close to racing, as his wife and family have properties in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.