by Greg Gangle – WEG Media

Campbellville, ON — When Steve Condren received word last week of his induction into Canada’s Horse Racing Hall of Fame, the timing of such news couldn’t have been better.

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Steve Condren was recently inducted into Canada’s Hall of Fame.

“I recently found out I have cancer, so when I received the call it was pretty special,” said the winner of more than 6,600 races in his brilliant career. “The prognosis from the doctors is good, but it’s going to require time including treatment and an operation.”

One of the perennial leaders on the Woodbine-Mohawk circuit for more than three decades, Condren returned to the race bike in April after wintering in Florida, but acknowledged his future as a driver is uncertain.

“I’m going to shut it down and do what’s needed to be done and devote all my energy to getting healthy again” said the 1997 O’Brien Award winner as Canada’s Driver of the Year. “Right now, I don’t know how long I’m going to need. If I don’t come back, I’ve had a career I’m very proud of that’s given me the opportunity to make a lot of friends and drive some great horses which have provided me with a ton of highlights.”

The Milton, Ontario resident admitted the Hall of Fame honor caught him off guard.

“I knew I was nominated, but I didn’t know if it was my year or not,” he said. “I really thought Wally (Dave Wall) would get in as he’s been nominated before. It’s a great feeling to be recognized and I want to thank everyone responsible.”

Widely renowned as one of the most skilled handlers of young horses ever, Condren decided to make the local colony aware of his situation now before the heart of the stakes season begins.

“I thought it was best to let the owners and trainers I’ve driven for to know now so they can make other plans as the 2-year-olds are soon coming along.”

All of Condren’s many friends and colleagues wish him a speedy and full recovery.