Young harness driver set to hit win record

A 27-year-old harness racer from Orwell, P.E.I., is poised to hit the record books.

Marc Campbell is only four wins away from breaking a Charlottetown track record.

Twenty-four years ago the record of 118 wins in a single season at the Charlottetown track was set by Paul MacDonald — a man Campbell admired.

"Growing up, Paul was a big idol of mine. And he taught me some stuff about driving, and he was always giving me hints. So it would just be incredible to do it," said Campbell.

Campbell is close to breaking that record. With five racing days left at the Charlottetown Red Shores Racetrack and Casino, it seems likely.

"If everything goes good, it should happen. But you never know in horse racing," said Campbell.

He credits good horses, trainers and help for an incredible year. He was top driver at Old Home Week, the Lobster Carnival and in the Maritimes. And now he has a chance to be in the history books.

It's quite an accomplishment, especially at 27, said Lee Drake, Red Shores' manager of sales and marketing.

"And in a sport that is really such a competitive sport, where records are hard to break," said Drake.

But it's been difficult year for Campbell too. His grandfather, Charles MacDonald, died recently.

"He was the one who got me into this game. He passed away in October, so, to do it for him, that's who I'm going to do it for," said Campbell.

Given his starting positions, Cambpell thinks it's a long shot he'll break the record this weekend. But if he does, there will be extra significance — Paul MacDonald died three years ago this weekend.