from Harnessracing.com

Lexington, KY — Dave Hawk, 50, who drove more than 5,500 winners in his career, died Thursday night (June 27) at a Columbus, Ohio area hospital. About one month ago Mr. Hawk was recovering from a stroke when he was also diagnosed with leukemia.

Based primarily at the Ohio racetracks and The Meadows outside Pittsburgh, Mr. Hawk drove in more than 30,000 races in a career that began in 1980, posting 5,525 victories with $21,844,885 in purse earnings.

The son of veteran Ohio-based horseman Lloyd Hawk, Mr. Hawk got his Fair license at age 17 and his Provisional license at 18. He began driving at The Meadows but returned to his home state when his father broke his leg, later dividing his time between states. He also raced at Colonial Downs.

Mr. Hawk’s best year came in 1999 when he won 562 races to rank him fourth in North America.

Over the years he was associated with many stars in the Buckeye State, including 1997 Triple Crown champion Indian Fever, Air Touch, Ballroom Delight, Star Role, Hesza Laser, Its Scooter Time, Hez Striking and 2000 Ohio Horse of the Year Cynthia Iliad.

From 1999-2001, Mr. Hawk won three straight Jerry Kaltenbach Memorial Awards as the top driver on the Ohio Sires Stake circuit.

Funeral arrangements will be posted when available.