by Jerry Connors

Fredonia, PA — John P. Brocklehurst, 81, a second-generation horseman in a family whose reach in harness racing now extends to a fourth generation, passed away during the morning of Saturday (April 22).

A resident of Mercer, Pa., Brocklehurst, and his brother David, followed their father Paul into the business. His son Harold continued the tradition and the fourth generation horsemen in the line today are Bryce and Mike, both racing at The Meadows.

Brocklehurst likely have been proud of his grandson Bryce, who on Saturday decided to continue with a driving assignment at The Meadows only a few hours after finding out his grandfather, who had been ill, had passed away. His grandson went out and guided Media Buzz from eighth at the half to win the $28,400 Tamarind Trotting Series final at the southwest Pennsylvania oval that afternoon.

The best horse with whom Brocklehurst was associated was Hominy Ros, who was by Rican Ros, a son of Florican, out of the Sharpshooter mare Chickahominy. He trained and drove the horse and was co-owner with his brother David, who was the breeder.

Among Hominy Ros’s fifteen victories at age two in 1978 were two world records for 2-year-old trotting geldings: a 2:05.3f at Scioto Downs, and a 2:04.1h at the Delaware Fair. John was also the leading driver at Wheeling Downs for two seasons.

Brocklehurst’s wife, Mary Jane, preceded him in death by six months. For 15 years they operated a harness repair shop on the backstretch at The Meadows. He leaves behind four children: Harold, Austin, Jane Anne, and Amanda; five grandchildren, including Bryce and Mike; and five great-grandchildren.

There will be visiting hours from 12 noon to 2:15 p.m. on Monday (April 24) at the Robert Snyder Funeral Home in Fredonia. At 2:30 p.m. a memorial service will be conducted there by Pastor Joe Di Donato, chaplain at The Meadows.