The WA Horse of the Year honours for 2024 were celebrated at a gala event at Perth’s Crown Towers Hotel, where three new members were inducted into the harness racing side of the WA Racing Industry Hall of Fame. The new inductees included Baltic Eagle, Bob Pollock, and The Porter Family. Baltic Eagle, trained by Rod Chambers, overcame health issues to achieve success in races like the Fremantle Cup and WA Pacing Cup.
Bob Pollock, a prominent figure in harness racing, began his career in 1939 and went on to win numerous races, including the 1953 Inter Dominion with Captain Sandy. Pollock’s contributions to the sport extended beyond driving, as he also trained successful horses like Blue Mist and Battle Song. His legacy in the industry is marked by his achievements and dedication to the sport.
The Porter Family, led by Howard Porter, made significant contributions to harness racing through breeding, training, and driving horses. Howard Porter’s sons, Jack, Ron, and Lyall, also played key roles in the family’s success. Their involvement in the industry for over 100 years led to the breeding of champions like San Simeon and Leyden. The Porter Family’s legacy in harness racing earned them a well-deserved induction into the WA Racing Industry Hall of Fame.