Hall of Fame

Michael G. Kimelman is a respected and enduring presence in American harness racing, known for his decades‑long commitment to the sport as an owner, breeder, executive and industry advocate. His introduction to harness racing came through his father, Oscar Kimelman—a Harness Racing Hall of Fame Immortal—whose passion for the sport shaped the family’s deep, multigenerational involvement. What began as an investment opportunity brought to Oscar soon drew in Mike and his brother Ted, ultimately inspiring the family to purchase a 600‑acre property in Wallkill, New York. That land would become Blue Chip Farms, one of the most influential breeding operations in North America.

While simultaneously running the Wall Street investment firm Kimelman and Baird, Kimelman served as president of Blue Chip Farms from 1970 to 2001. Under his leadership - and with the timely rise of the New York Sire Stakes program - Blue Chip grew into a powerhouse. Kimelman’s recruitment of Hall of Fame farm manager Bill Brown helped elevate the farm’s reputation and its stallion roster, which would eventually include such iconic sires as Most Happy Fella and Bettor’s Delight. In 2001, Mike and Ted sold Blue Chip Farms to Mike’s longtime partner and friend, Thomas Grossman, marking the end of an era but leaving behind a thriving legacy.

Kimelman’s influence extended far beyond the farm. He was instrumental in strengthening ties between North American and European breeders and owners, helping pave the way for top European stars to compete in North America. His group also played a key role in establishing French wagering on the Hambletonian, which expanded the race’s international reach and prestige.

A thoughtful steward of the sport, Kimelman has served on the board of the Hambletonian Society since 1987. He is the Society’s First Vice President and a member of both the Executive Committee and the Breeders Crown Committee, where he helped establish a rights‑fee structure that has ensured the Breeders Crown remains one of harness racing’s premier event series. Kimelman was a trustee of the Harness Racing Museum & Hall Fame from 1993-2007, and is now trustee emeritus.

Throughout his career, he has been admired for his integrity, continuity and unwavering dedication to the Standardbred breed. In recognition of his decades of service and lasting impact, Michael G. Kimelman was elected to the Harness Racing Hall of Fame in 2025. His induction honors not only his personal achievements but also the enduring legacy of a family that helped shape the modern era of harness racing.