Odds On Racing - Harness Racing

The Photo Finish Camera

Sportsman's Park was the first racetrack in Chicago to initiate Nightime Racing and utilize a Photo Finish Camera.

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(Above LEFT) Four Towers, 45 feet high, overlooked Sportsman's Park where a camera patrol was in action for the first time on any night harness race track. The towers were positioned at the head of the stretch, clubhouse turn and two were placed strategically on the backstretch.

(Above RIGHT) Camerman Bill Valentine climbs long stairway each night before racing card.
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Cameraman Bill Valentine at work

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(Above LEFT) Film is put into "iron lung" which develops eight minutes. Aaron Harvey (left) and Valentine (right) are seen at work.

(Above RIGHT) Aaron Harvey threads reel into projector while Presiding Judge M. S. Van Gieson (right) and Judge W. B. Westbrook look on.

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(Above LEFT) Valentine gives film to Bill Holub, who picks up films at each tower after race, and takes it directly to, lab where it can be developed within eight minutes in case of injury.

(Above RIGHT) The film is shown on large screen in secretary's office as judges, drivers, secretary and owners view proceeding night's races.