from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Greg MacDonald, 86, formerly of Sydney, Nova Scotia and Smyrna, Del., died from heart failure April 13, 2015, at Bayhealth Kent General.

Mr. MacDonald started his driving career in 1962 north of the border, having great success with the pacer Bob Brook. In 1963 he made the break to the United States, working as second trainer for the late Hugh Bell.

Of note he trained Miles End Brenda, Miles End Dianne and Miles End Steve, who won on the same race card at The Meadowlands. They were all $100,000 winners and full siblings.

He last drove in 1988 at Monticello Raceway.

An accomplished all-around horseman, he was seen in his later years sitting in his pickup truck trackside, watching training miles with Lizzy the Jack Russell by his side.

Mr. MacDonald is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Betty Lyan); sons, Joe (Linda) and John; daughters, Trish, Pauline, Colleen (Jim McGuire) and Judy (Dan Murray); eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Larry.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made for the youth in harness racing via the Harness Horse Youth Foundation, 16575 Carey Road, Westfield, IN 46074.

He will be cremated and a home service celebrating his life will be held Saturday (April 18) from 2-4 p.m. at the MacDonald residence, 4318 Wheatleys Pond Road, Smyrna, Del.