Chester, PA – Joseph R. “Sonny” Krystofolski passed away on January 16, 2026.
Sonny was a longtime participant in the harness racing industry. He began his career as a trainer in the 1970s, racing at Liberty Bell Park and Brandywine Raceway. After his training career, Sonny went on to serve as paddock judge at Freehold Raceway for nearly 20 years.
He later became the first paddock judge at Harrah’s Philadelphia (formerly Harrah’s Chester), where he served for more than 17 years. Sonny was well known and respected throughout the paddock and by many horsemen who worked alongside him over the years.
In later years Sonny experienced health problems that slowed him down and he was homebound prior to his passing. He will be remembered fondly by those who knew him and by the many people whose paths crossed his during his long career in the sport.
A celebration of life will be held later this year by his daughter. Additional details will be shared when they become available.