by Carol Cramer

Bloomingburg, OH — Henry D. Mayer, 85, died Dec. 29, 2012, at his home from bone cancer. His wife Patricia was at his side.

Carol Cramer photo

Henry Mayer died Dec. 29, 2012, at age 85.

They had enjoyed a long and loving relationship for more than 30 years, being partners not only in life but in business. Mr. Mayer’s incredible passion for the horse was unequaled. His support and involvement in the harness racing industry continued for almost 40 years.

His ownership and partnerships included such greats as Niatross and McKinzie Almahurst and many other good racehorses and stakes winners with trainers George Sholty and Billy Haughton. He and Patricia currently have several horses in training with their good friend and trainer, Jimmy Doherty.

The favorite time of the year for Mr. Mayer was attending the Grand Circuit meet in Lexington, Ky., where, weather permitting, he sat in his railbird box for the entire day enjoying the races. Evenings would be spent attending the horse sales out at Fasig Tipton where he had trouble not raising his hand for a purchase.

His enthusiasm for our industry and his deep love of the horse will be remembered fondly. Always the consummate gentleman, Mr. Mayer will be greatly missed in harness racing by all of us that knew him and held him in such high regard.