Columbus, OH – Longtime California horseman Gene Vallandingham died on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the age of 84.
During his harness racing career as an owner, trainer and driver, Vallandingham had more than 3,000 driving wins with over $13 million in earnings and he visited the winner’s circle nearly 600 times as a trainer with almost $2.5 million in purses won.
He spent the majority of his career racing in California, where his final drive was at Cal Expo on March 10, 2015 and the last horse he sent to that track was on Dec. 28, 2018.
Vallandingham, who raced into his 70s, and his brother Bill were elected into the California Harness Racing Hall of Fame in 2014.
According to the California Harness Horsemen’s Association, he was known as “Mr. California” in harness racing and earned the nickname “Golden Rod” because of his blond hair. He wore red, white and blue colors with white boots and was always a fan favorite.
He grew up in the harness racing business in Kentucky before going to Illinois, where he won driving titles at Washington Park and Aurora Downs. In 1971, he moved to California, where he enjoyed his greatest career achievements.
A complete obituary and further details will be provided when they become available.