2010 HARNESS RACING MUSEUM AMATEUR DRIVING CHAMPION TODD WHITNEY who is from Auburn , Maine and the owner of Whitney and Sons Concrete Company, says his primary joys in life are his work and his racing stock. When not pouring concrete he can be found driving his Standardbreds in amateur and non-amateur events at Maine 's Cumberland Fairgrounds, Scarborough Downs and Plainridge Racecourse, as well as other racetracks around the country.

Born on May 24, 1962 , Whitney became involved with racehorses at the age of 13, cleaning stalls for a neighbor and

regularly attending race cards at Scarborough Downs with his father. When he was older, Whitney purchased hisown horses and with the help of Maine Sports Hall of Fame horseman Donnie Richards acquired his trainer and driver’s licenses. “I drove in some qualifying races and got along OK but when I raced for money, there was a big difference. It was every man for himself,” he says. Whitney credits Heath Campbell, the Maine Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association's 2007 Driver of the Year, for his involvement with the C. K. G. Billings Amateur Driving Series. “I’m absolutely thrilled to be a member of the Billings and I really enjoy the competitions,” he said.

In 2009 Whitney enjoyed the best season of his amateur driving career. His record of 30 wins, 32 seconds and 17 thirds in 197 starts was among the leaders in amateur competition. For his accomplishments in the Billings Series and his success in amateur racing in general in 2009 Whitney was named USHWA’s National Amateur Driver of the Year.

With almost 100 lifetime amateur victories under his belt, Whitney has earned the respect of his peers. “Life is short and I always try to do what I like to do.” “I love to pour concrete and I love to work with the horses. For me it doesn’t get any better than that,” the amateur reinsman says.   Yes it does! Receiving the Museum’s Amateur Driving Champion’s trophy and portrait has gotta top it! Congratulations and thanks Todd!

For information on The Harness Racing Museum's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies, including ticketing and hotel information, click here or call the museum at 845.294.6330.  Attendance at the event is open to the public and encouraged.