On a chilly evening at The Raceway at Western Fair District, 91-year-old Bill Megens made headlines by guiding his homebred trotter Willy Strike to victory. This remarkable feat not only marked his first win since October 2021 but also highlighted the enduring passion and skill of a man who has spent over seven decades in the world of horse racing. Megens' story is one of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the sport he loves.

Defying Age and Expectations with Every Lap

The Thrill of Victory: A Night to Remember

As the crowd watched in awe, Bill Megens piloted Willy Strike from post 5, maintaining a strategic position through the early stages of the race. By the final stretch, the pair surged ahead, crossing the finish line just a quarter-length ahead of the even-money favorite HA Code Red. The triumph was met with cheers and admiration, a testament to Megens' experience and intuition. "He might not be the fastest, but he’s a really nice horse," Megens remarked, highlighting the importance of perseverance and preparation. This victory was more than just a win; it symbolized the spirit of a man who refuses to let age dictate his capabilities.Despite initial plans to secure a win with another homebred, He Will, Megens found unexpected success with Willy Strike. Training sessions had led him to believe He Will was ready for a comeback, but the nightcap did not go as planned. Nevertheless, Megens remained the center of attention, inspiring everyone around him. "It’s truly remarkable to watch Bill come to the track and do his thing," said Greg Blanchard, director of equine programming at Western Fair. His presence serves as a powerful reminder that passion transcends time.

A Journey Spanning Seven Decades

Bill Megens' journey in horse racing began in 1950 when he and his brother John moved from The Netherlands to Canada. At just 16 years old, Bill started working on his father's farm in northern Ontario, laying the foundation for a lifelong career. Initially, he balanced farming with various jobs in Toronto to support his family. Despite the challenges, his love for horses never waned. "I worked on the farm, and then in the winter time, my father sent us down to Toronto to make a little extra money to help the family out," Megens recalled. Even with limited resources, he found joy in every moment, whether it was working at Dufferin Park or taking on construction jobs.Megens' career took a significant turn in the mid-1970s when he encountered Snegem Flight, a champion trotter that brought him national recognition. The Ontario Sire Stakes provided a platform for Snegem Flight to shine, earning accolades as both a 2-Year-Old and 3-Year-Old Trotter of the Year. This success opened doors for Megens, leading to international opportunities and solidifying his reputation in the racing community. "We got really lucky," Megens admitted, attributing much of his success to timing and determination.

An Evolving Industry and Timeless Passion

The horse racing industry has changed dramatically over the years, with modern advancements and increased competition. Yet, Megens remains steadfast in his approach. "It’s a different game today," he observed. "People are buying yearlings for $800,000 and stuff like that. I’m just doing it the old way." Raising, training, and driving his own horses, Megens embodies the traditional values of the sport. Despite the challenges, he finds fulfillment in maintaining his independence and staying true to his roots.At 91, Megens shows no signs of slowing down. While he plans to scale back his stable in the spring, his commitment to the sport remains unshaken. "I just want to keep a few, cut down a little bit, and hopefully, have a couple half-decent horses and pay their bill," he said. For Megens, it's not about retiring but adapting to ensure he can continue doing what he loves. His story is a powerful reminder that passion knows no bounds and that age is merely a number when it comes to achieving greatness.