2025 Westie Award Winners

The 2025 Westie Award winners represent the very best of Western Canadian harness racing, celebrating a season defined by excellence, dedication, and unforgettable performances. Presented by TheWesternPacer.ca, the Westies honour the horses, horsepeople, and industry leaders who helped shape another outstanding year on the track. From thrilling finishes to consistent excellence throughout the season, these winners set the standard and showcased the passion that continues to drive harness racing forward across Western Canada.

For the full list of nominees, click here.

Heart of the West Award

Daryl Thiessen

The Heart of the West Award celebrates those who embody the spirit of Western Canadian harness racing while carrying its pride onto bigger stages, and the inaugural recipient, Daryl Thiessen, is a fitting first honouree. From his roots in Elm Creek, Manitoba, Thiessen has built a career that reflects both consistency and excellence, amassing 336 wins from 1,942 starts, $2,354,769 in earnings, and an impressive UDRS of .301 in 2025. His success at premier tracks such as Woodbine Mohawk Park, Western Fair, and Flamboro Downs highlights a journey that began in Western Canada and now shines on the sport’s largest stages. These accomplishments make him a true ambassador for the region and the values it represents.

Trainer of the Year

B.C.: Rebecca Kanak

Driver of the Year

Manitoba: Darryl Mason

Owner of the Year

B.C.: Trevor Williams

Two-Year-Old Filly of the Year

Alberta: B A Dragon (Custard The Dragon)

Two-Year-Old Colt/Gelding of the Year

Alberta: The Great Shark(Smart Shark)

Three-Year-Old Filly of the Year

Manitoba: Pipers Luna (Im The Pied Piper)

Three-Year-Old Colt/Gelding of the Year

Alberta: Momas Work Of Art (Outrageous Art)

Claimer of the Year

Manitoba: Chief Is Boss (Beren Hanover)

Aged Mare of the Year

Alberta: Stash The Cookies (Sunfire Blue Chip)

Aged Horse/Gelding of the Year

Alberta: Shark Week (Vertical Horizon)

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees, whose achievements made the 2025 Westie Awards truly special. Your dedication, passion, and hard work continue to elevate the standard of competition and showcase the depth of talent across the region. To everyone throughout Western Canada involved in the great sport of harness racing. To all the owners, trainers, drivers, breeders, track staff, and fans, thank you for your commitment and support. It is your collective effort that keeps the sport thriving and moving forward year after year.