Behind the Gate

and durability. In the past, mares and stallions were used for breeding purpos— es usually after a lengthy and productive racing career. Today, they become sires and dams at age three or four mainly because of their blood lines.

This interview was taped at the home of Wally’s parents on Euston Street in Charlottetown. It was on a beautiful Monday afternoon during Old Home Week of 2005. We had just enjoyed a delicious roast beef dinner with all the trimmings prepared by his mother, Shirley. As usual, some of Wally’s sib— lings and some guests were present to enjoy the meal and conversation with his

Wally fiCmCSSCY

parents. It was very evident that family was important in this residence.

In 1975, as a grade 11 history teacher at Colonel Gray Senior High School in Charlottetown, I had an above average academic student in one of my history classes who had very little interest in the curriculum. At that time, his entire focus concerned the equine activity at the Charlottetown Driving Park. He believed that his future would be with horses and not the Napoleonic Wars so he discontin— ued his academic pursuits that year. That student was Wally Hennessey and the rest is history! In 2008, for Wally, work was more fun than fun was.

Moni Maker and Wally Ilennessey capturing the Breeders Crown at the lVlcadmvlands. Photo: Monica Thor's

‘f/uclging is now more strict on drivers crossing the lines

and one banded whipping. Not only is it cruel

and terrible to witness but these drivers

have no control of their borse. ”

17