By Greg Douglas – Dr. Sport
SCENE & HEARD: Trainer Mark Cloutier would like nothing better than to deliver his mother-in-law Dixie Jacobson a special gift on this Canada Day holiday Monday. Cloutier has three mounts running on today’s card but the one that matters most under the circumstances is Sharp Contrast in the $50,000 Supernaturel for 3-year-old fillies.
The race is named in honour of the great chestnut filly that was purchased by Dixie’s husband Roy on their 20th anniversary in the fall of 1982. Supernaturel went on to win nine stake races over five different seasons and was named Leading Older B.C.-bred filly or mare in 1985, 1986 and 1987 as well as Leading Older filly &mare in 1985 and 1987 in the Open Division.
Dixie herself has made quite an impact on the local racing scene and was acknowledged in 2015 with an induction into the BC Horse Racing Hall of Fame for her contributions as an owner, breeder, leader and builder. She served an eight-year run as President of the CTHS (BC Division) and two terms as national Vice-President for the Canadian CTHS.
“Her work in other areas should not be overlooked,” horseman Richard Yates pointed out in Dixie’s Hall of Fame induction. “She has long been active in the fight against breast cancer and for a number of years has worked with the Langley Hospital Foundation and David Foster Foundation.”
Dixie makes her annual visit to the Supernaturel winner’s circle today as guest decorator. The training combo of Mark and Toni (nee Jacobson) Cloutier would love to be there at her side.