Debbie Little, a prominent figure in harness racing, recently shared her journey to the Communicators Hall of Fame (CHOF) at the Dan Patch Awards banquet. Her unexpected path to this prestigious honor began with a childhood friend, Lisa Nicholas Cardillo, who played a pivotal role in kickstarting her career at Yonkers Raceway. Little expressed gratitude to Tom Cosentino for providing her with the opportunity that set her on this remarkable trajectory.
Little’s foray into harness racing was unconventional, considering her background in science and math. Despite her initial focus on accounting, her passion for horses and the industry grew over time. Yonkers Raceway, where she began her career, held a special place in her heart as it was not only her hometown track but also where she met her husband. The valuable lessons she learned from individuals like Tim Rooney and Bob Galterio contributed to her professional growth.
During her tenure at the New York Post, Little encountered challenges in promoting harness racing, as it often received less attention compared to thoroughbred racing. Undeterred, she took every opportunity to cover major races and events, showcasing the sport to a broader audience. Her dedication to highlighting harness racing in her columns and freelance work demonstrated her commitment to elevating the sport’s visibility.
Transitioning from traditional journalism to magazine writing provided Little with a creative outlet to explore diverse topics beyond race coverage. Collaborating with publications like TROT Magazine allowed her to delve into compelling narratives, such as the acclaimed story of Walter Case, Jr. Little’s persistence in pursuing stories that resonated with readers exemplified her passion for storytelling and advocacy within the industry.
Despite facing setbacks, including a job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, Little found solace in writing for Harness Racing Update (HRU). Her firsthand accounts of the pandemic’s impact on the racing community resonated with readers and paved the way for her role as an associate editor at HRU. Little’s resilience and unwavering dedication to her craft led to the debut of her column, Meadowlands Matters, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
At the heart of Little’s success are the connections she forged with caretakers, owners, trainers, and fans who shared their stories with her. She humbly acknowledged their contributions to her achievements, emphasizing that her work was a collaborative effort that celebrated the vibrant tapestry of harness racing. Little’s induction into the CHOF symbolizes not only her individual accomplishments but also the collective spirit of the racing community.
Amidst her professional milestones, Little shared a charming anecdote about a mind reader encounter that foretold her future with her husband, Dave Little. Their serendipitous meeting and subsequent journey in harness racing mirrored the magic of the sport itself. As the only married couple in the CHOF, their shared passion for the industry and enduring partnership exemplify the essence of a “Hall of Fame marriage,” a testament to their enduring legacy within the racing world.
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