Phil Hayek

Fergie, the Jets and Assiniboia Downs – A Love Story

Fergie, the Jets and Assiniboia Downs – A Love Story

by Bob Gates Ten years ago, Mark Chipman announced the purchase of the Atlanta Thrashers, and the Winnipeg Jets 2.0 were born. What a great opportunity to pay homage to the man who played a vital role in obtaining a National Hockey League (NHL) franchise for our fair...

The Rivalry. Northern Spike and Mr. Macho

The Rivalry. Northern Spike and Mr. Macho

by Bob Gates Mr. Macho and Northern Spike's two-year rivalry at Assiniboia Downs was a classic. Why just 1979 and 80? Well, after 1980 "Spike" raced at the Downs until May 1984. "Macho" move to Woodbine and Fort Erie in 1981 with "pit stops" at Santa Anita and...

Spring, Sprints and a Spike, with record-setting speed

Spring, Sprints and a Spike, with record-setting speed

by Bob Those of us who go back to the early 1980s will know that "Spike" is none other than Northern Spike. He was owned and bred by the late Ivan Dowler in partnership with sons Graham, John and Dan - Graham and John have both passed as well. Spike was a handsome...