A Lifelong Devotion: John Polvinale's Contribution to Harness Racing
John Polvinale, an 88-year-old harness racing enthusiast, has dedicated much of his life to preserving the sport’s history. His journey began in the late 1940s when he attended races with his father at Roosevelt Raceway and Yonkers. Over the years, he amassed a vast collection of memorabilia, which he recently donated to the Harness Racing Museum. Additionally, Polvinale founded the website Harness Racing History to foster positive discussions among fans globally. His friendship with Herve Filion added another dimension to his passion for the sport, while his ownership of over a hundred horses further enriched his experience. Recently, Polvinale proposed a “Wall of Achievements” to recognize significant accomplishments within the industry.
Through his efforts, Polvinale has become a pivotal figure in maintaining the sport’s legacy. His initiatives aim to celebrate achievements and create a welcoming space for enthusiasts from all walks of life. Despite facing some challenges in implementing his ideas, such as the Wall of Achievements proposal, Polvinale remains committed to promoting harmony and recognition in harness racing.
A Digital Haven for Enthusiasts
In 2016, John Polvinale recognized the need for a structured online platform dedicated to harness racing discussions. Harness Racing History was born, offering a civilized space where fans could engage in meaningful conversations. The site quickly grew, boasting nearly 50,000 members from over a hundred countries. It provides a forum for sharing insights, fostering education, and celebrating the sport’s rich history. Polvinale ensured that the platform remained free from negativity, commercialism, and hostility, focusing instead on constructive dialogue.
The creation of Harness Racing History marked a turning point in how enthusiasts interacted with the sport. Before its establishment, online discussions often devolved into arguments and animosity. Polvinale envisioned a community centered on mutual respect and learning. To manage the growing membership, he enlisted a team of moderators, including Pete Lawrence, Dean Hoffman, Dom Robelo, Nina Bell Mariani, and Daniel Allor. Their collaborative efforts ensured the site’s success. In 2019, Polvinale received the USHWA President’s Award, acknowledging his contribution to harness racing through this initiative.
Preserving Legacy Through Collectibles and Proposals
John Polvinale’s passion extends beyond digital platforms into tangible memorabilia. His extensive collection, housed in his Wilkes Barre home, became a personal museum chronicling the sport’s evolution. Recognizing the need for a permanent repository, Polvinale donated approximately 90% of his collection to the Harness Racing Museum. This generous act ensures future generations can appreciate the sport’s history. Furthermore, his proposal for a “Wall of Achievements” aims to recognize noteworthy accomplishments by individuals not yet honored in traditional halls of fame.
Polvinale’s decision to relocate to New Jersey prompted him to find a suitable home for his cherished items. Partnering with Janet Terhune at the Harness Racing Museum, he facilitated the transfer of his collection, filling an entire truck with artifacts. Beyond memorabilia, Polvinale advocates for acknowledging unsung heroes in the sport. His Wall of Achievements concept suggests criteria based on achievements like winning over 10,000 pari-mutuel races or Grade 1 events. While the idea faced resistance from the museum board, it reflects Polvinale’s commitment to inclusivity and recognition within the harness racing community. His vision continues to inspire discussions about honoring contributions that might otherwise go unnoticed.