Nicol Tremblay dies
Tuesday,
August 29, 2006 - by Nicole Kraft
Nicol Tremblay, one of
California’s most respected horsemen, died after a short
illness Sunday, Aug. 27, in Sacramento.
Mr. Tremblay, 64, a native of Montreal, Quebec, had driven
winners of nearly $4 million in his career, which spanned
two countries. Tremblay was among Quebec’s leading drivers
when he decided to move with his family to California and
seek success on the Golden State Circuit.
He found it with the multitude of Cal-bred champions he
developed, like Robitaille, who went on to earn nearly
$900,000; $200,000 winner Gouda; $133,000 winner Taos; and
Distinguishedbaron, a winner of nearly $200,000.
Mr. Tremblay also developed Mr Rodeo Drive, a top sophomore
pacer in 1986.
Though he had health issues in recent years, Mr. Tremblay
continued to drive and operate a stable with his daughter
Nathalie, a skilled horsewoman who had been his assistant
for more than two decades. Nathalie Tremblay recently passed
her USTA trainer’s license with the intention of taking over
more of the barn’s duties as her father neared retirement.
Mr. Tremblay’s most recent training win came June 24 with
TNT Billy at Cal Expo, while he scored his last driving
victory May 18 in Sacramento with K D Rowdy One.
In addition to his daughter Nathalie, Mr. Tremblay is
survived by his wife, Lily; and his younger daughter, Manon.
A memorial service will be held during the Cal Expo races on
Sept. 8.
