Harness driver Palone gets career win No. 15,000

WASHINGTON, Pa. - Dave Palone became the second driver in North American harness racing history to win 15,000 career races when he guided Boo's Boy to victory in Tuesday's 10th race at The Meadows.

Palone, who entered the day needing four wins to reach the milestone, was congratulated in the winner's circle by 72-year-old Herve Filion, who holds the North American record of 15,180 wins.

"I can't tell you how happy I am," Palone said in a trackside interview with Meadows track announcer Roger Huston. "I knew my family was here and I saw management here - and to know this guy [Filion] was here, I didn't want to let him down."

Palone, who turned 50 in February, stood on the seat of his sulky as he drove Boo's Boy to the winner's circle in homage to Filion, who made the move famous during his career.

"I did that as a tribute to my hero here," Palone said. "I've never done it before. It was like water skiing."

Palone, a western Pennsylvania native who calls The Meadows his home track, has won at least 532 races every year beginning in 1992, a span of 20 seasons. No one in North America has won more races during that period.

In 2010, Palone was inducted into the Harness Racing Hall of Fame. Six times he has won or shared Harness Tracks of America's Driver of the Year Award: 2009, 2008, 2004, 2003, 2000 and 1999. He led North America in wins in 2004, 2000 and 1999. He has finished among the top four in victories 19 of the last 20 years.

His next milestone will be the 15,180 wins recorded by Filion, who has held the sport's No. 1 spot for career victories in North America since 1971.

"It's going to be tough. I was nervous today; I can't imagine when I get close," Palone said. "Herve's always told me, 'All you need is power, kid.'"

Filion, a native of Quebec who was the sport's leading driver 16 times from 1968 through 1990, was happy to be part of the celebration.

"It is quite an honor to be here to congratulate [Palone] on the accomplishment," said Filion, who notched his most recent win in 2010. "It is well deserved. Believe me, I know what I'm talking about, it's not easy. You've got to have Lady Luck on your side.

"Dave is a good worker; he works hard and drives hard. He's a very strong competitor. Now I just hope he becomes the world champion. And I hope that someday another driver comes and beats his record because that would be good for the industry."