TORONTO, May 7 2026 – Twice a month, Woodbine Mohawk Park will profile a Standardbred connected to the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society (OSAS). This week’s installment belongs to Bettor Notbitter, a globe-trotting war horse whose career came to an unexpected end following a serious injury in his 184th and final start, and the veterinarian many at OSAS credit with saving his life, Dr. Julie Ballinger. Helping the bay, who was claimed 18 times during his racing career, feel like himself again took time, belief and resilience. Getting there, as Dr. Ballinger noted, would not have been possible if not for the countless people who devoted their time to a selfless horse who gave it his all each time he stepped on the track. “I would like to thank driver Phil Hudon, Mohawk’s starting gate crew and track maintenance team, OSAS’ financial support, the veterinarians, blacksmiths, caregivers, and, in particular, Joanne Colville, for not giving up on Bettor Notbitter. He deserved the effort.” Today, Bettor Notbitter resides with his forever family, thriving in his new role as a companion horse and paddock pal of fellow former racehorse, Railroad Ron. Fun fact #1: Bettor Notbitter was bred in Australia, where began his racing career in 2019. Fun fact #2: Bettor Notbitter moved to the United States in 2019, competing mainly on the New York circuit before moving to Ontario at the end of 2021. Fun fact #3: Bettor Notbitter made 184 starts over his career, finishing with a 42-34-28 record and over $391,000 in total prizes. Bettor Notbitter and driver Doug McNair winning Race 4 on September 4, 2023 at Woodbine Mohawk Park (New Image Media) Bettor Notbitter Foaled: November 2, 2012 Sire: Bettor’s Delight Dam: Fina Gemima Trainer: William Budd (most recent) Owner: Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society Breeder: G F Bond- J S Gartrell, Success- R B Gartrell, Wales- A H Foster, Dianella, Australia OSAS Program Status: Adopted Bettor Notbitter enjoyed an extraordinary racing career, competing all over the world. Based on what you’ve seen in him, why do you think he was successful for so long? “Like all of our racehorses, Bettor Notbitter has the motivation to please his human handlers, the determination to do what is asked of him, and the stoicism to overcome challenges. He enjoys the care and love – and licorice – he receives from his caregivers. I believe his joy of life drove his long, successful career.” His final start ended under unfortunate circumstances, leaving him in need of urgent care. How would you describe the situation he was in when you first assessed him? “Bettor Notbitter suffered a severe injury during his final start and was unable to finish the race. He was in a situation that could have been exacerbated if not for the quick thinking and appropriate actions of his driver, Phil Hudon, who pulled him up immediately, and the rapid response of the starting gate team, Parade Marshall and track crew who assisted in providing the emergency medical care he needed. “The injury could have deteriorated into a non-repairable injury had it not been for the driver’s and Mohawk team’s actions.” Bettor Notbitter and driver Doug McNair winning Race 6 on January 7, 2022 at Woodbine Mohawk Park (New Image Media) What did it take from both you and him to overcome the injury? “It took his stoicism and calm trusting nature to overcome this injury. Between the team of veterinarians, caregivers, blacksmiths, & OSAS that worked to save him, it took all of our hope and faith in veterinary medicine to let science and nature do its job and heal his injury. He needed time to heal, and I was able to get him that time thanks to Joanne’s and OSAS’ trust.” Today, he is enjoying retirement as a companion horse and friend of Railroad Ron, who lost his longtime best friend Y Chance It last February. When you see how far he’s come since the injury, how does it make you feel? “I feel joy and pride when seeing the recovery Bettor has made. Joy when I see Bettor looking so happy, grazing on green pastures and enjoying a comfortable retirement, and pride for being involved in how he got there. It warms my heart to see him nickering for his licorice treats. I am proud of the team effort and dedication from all involved who know our horses deserve every chance at a peaceful, comfortable retirement. We have all been rewarded by his recovery.” * Founded in 1996, OSAS is an approved charitable organization committed to assisting in the adoption and relocation of retired and non-racing Standardbred horses within Ontario. A primary mandate of the program is to showcase the versatility of the breed to horse lovers unfamiliar with harness horses. OSAS, which strives to educate and assist in the retraining and management of Standardbreds, relies heavily on volunteers and temporary foster homes to carry out its mission. Those interested in getting involved with OSAS and its cause can reach out at osashorses@gmail.com or call 905-339-6748, for more information. Matthew Lomon, for Woodbine Mohawk Park Share This:Share
