For Edmonton’s Deanna Govenlock, chariot racing is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life passed down through four generations.
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“My grandpa raced and my mom and dad met racing,” said Govenlock. “I just went with my dad, helping, harnessing.”
Four years ago, her dad asked her to race. At first, she said no as she liked being behind the scenes.
“He says, ‘But you do all the work and no fun,’” she said with a laugh.
That same year, her son turned 14 and they started racing together as rookies.
“We were rookies together and I’ve been racing ever since,” she said, noting her teenage son is also still a driver.
Her younger son tried minis but didn’t continue and her niece also races minis.
“She comes from Saskatchewan to race with us,” Govenlock said. “So, it’s still in the family.”
Dan Gray Meridian Source Photo
The racing season runs from June to September and they’re on the road together every weekend.
“It’s 100 per cent family-oriented. You’re together all summer, going from town to town,” she said, noting the racing world is like a second family.
“You’re racing against each other, sure, but if you need something, they’re the first to help,” she said.
Safety is everything to Govenlock, who won last year’s Safe Driver Award.
“That meant a lot to me. I would rather be safe than win. Your horses are like your family … you always want to bring them home safe,” she said. “They love to run and they’re competitive, just like the drivers holding the reins.
Dan Gray Meridian Source
“They see another team ahead and want to catch them. They love to race.”
One of her favourite memories is racing with her dad and son last year in Millarville.
“My dad, my son Wyatt and I raced in three chariots against each other … It was the most fun,” she said, recalling her dad cried after every race that weekend.
“Nothing makes him happier than having us out there.”
Her grandfather, now in his 80s, hasn’t seen them race in person but watches every video from home.
“He’ll say, ‘This is good. You can work on this,’” she said. “He still loves it.”
According to Govenlock, not every driver starts in a racing family and many find a way in through friends.
“One rookie this year started by helping a buddy with chores,” she said. “Now he’s racing.”
Sponsors also matter. Many start as supporters and become part of the team.
“One of ours became a driver,” she said. “He started with chariots and now drives wagons.”
Though the sport has changed, the spirit hasn’t.
“The horses are bigger, the trailers are bigger but the roots are the same” she said, adding she loves coming to Vermilion to race.
“It’s one of the best shows we have. The fans are amazing,” she said.
“Stop by the barns anytime. We love showing off the horses and sharing what we do.”
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