from the USTA Communications Department

Archie Niles Jr. of Westbury N.Y. died on August 29, 2011.

Mr. Niles was born on July 27, 1924 into the harness racing family of Rose and Archie Sr. and was involved in harness racing throughout his life. He learned the game under the watchful eye of Archie Sr. and while working for Clint Hodgins.

After serving in the Navy for four years on the USS Essex, Mr. Niles went back to the family business full time with his green and white colors. He retired from racing in 1985.

Mr. Niles owned a restaurant in Westbury N.Y. in the 70’s called Americo’s that had regular customers such as Del Insko, Arlo Nelson, Billy Haughton, George Sholty, Billy Hudson, George Phalen, Alan Meyer, Jack Richardson and Dick Thomas among others.

Among the better known performers he brought to prominence were Interloper, Rendezuos Truder, Royal Scotchman, Mainsail, Butler Time, and Grandpa Jim. Grandpa Jim beat Roquepine to win the 1968 Challenge Cup at Roosevelt Raceway.

He is survived by loving daughter Linda (Daniel) Chiarello and Grandchildren: Dana and Kristen, Brother: Willard, Sisters: Dorothy, Arlene, and Sandra and many nieces and nephews.