Drew Campbell makes history in Maine

Drew Campbell reined four horses to victory at Scarborough Downs on Sunday (Nov. 22) and in the progress became the first Maine-based driver ever to reach the $1 million level in purse earnings in one season.

Campbell’s achievement today trumped even Jason Bartlett's, whose mounts in 2007 earned $1,387,838, but did so while racing the final three months of the year for slots-enhanced purses in New York after leaving Scarborough Downs for the bright lights of Yonkers Raceway.

“I know Jason did it in 2007 and I’m honored to join him in this,” a humble Campbell remarked. “I went over 360 wins today, but hearing about the $1 million figure, that hasn’t really set in just yet. It may when I slow down.”

Campbell continues to put his stamp on the record books in Maine and is well on his way to claiming back-to-back driving titles at Scarborough Downs.

"I’m just blessed I have a job I enjoy, so it doesn’t feel like a job to me," said Campbell. "They say, ‘Do what you love and the money will follow.’ I’ve had a very good year and I’m very fortunate to work with a lot of great people, drive good horses and get the job done on occasion.”

As the 42-year-old's list of accomplishments continues to grow his goals for the future remain simple.

“I used to put a lot of pressure on myself, to outdo myself each year, but I’m getting too old for that! I just want to stay healthy, I don’t want to get banged up, I just want to be able to do it every day and to enjoy the horses in the small stable that I have. I’m just fortunate to be associated with good owners, good trainers and good horses and to be able to race for good money. I want to keep that ball rolling. There’s no pressure for next year.” (Scarborough)

« Back