from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Eddie Allen “Pete” Higgs, 78, a Standardbred trainer who operated a public stable in the Midwest for many years, died Feb. 5, 2017.

Mr. Higgs began his career as a caretaker and assistant trainer for the famed Hayes Fair Acres Stable of Du Quoin, where his charges included Darn Safe, who retired as the richest trotter of all time.

Mr. Higgs later opened a public stable at the Effingham County Fairgrounds in his hometown of Altamont, Ill., where his roster included Royal Byrd, who set an all-age track record at Balmoral Park and was runner-up in the Illinois State Fair older pace championship.

Mr. Higgs is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary, who assisted him daily in the operation of his stable; son, Wayne, who was an assistant to Thoroughbred trainer Larry Jones when the latter raced both Hard Spun and Eight Belles; daughter, Mary Ann Spesard; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were held Feb. 8 at First Baptist Church in Altamont.