Alberta Thoroughbred Industry Loses Longtime Horseman, Jack Johnston

Admin • January 8, 2023

Jack was a breeder, owner and tireless supporter of the Alberta Thoroughbred industry.

The CTHS Alberta is saddened to share the news of the recent passing of longtime Alberta horseman, Jack Johnston. Our sincere condolences go out to Jack's family and friends.


Jack was a breeder, owner and tireless supporter of the Alberta Thoroughbred industry. He was a most valued CTHS Alberta Director from 1993 until 2015 and was awarded the Ken Cohoe Trophy for Horseperson of the Year in 2010, along with his wife Linda, in recognition of a ‘lifelong personal involvement and dedication to the love of the Thoroughbred horse.’ 


In lieu of flowers, a donation in Jack’s memory may be made to the S.P.C.A, S.T.A.R.S. or a charity of the donors choice.


Obituary Notice published in MountainViewTODAY - December 27, 2022 for Jack Ranold Johnston


'Jack Johnston will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda; son, Donald (Kerry); daughter, Ivey (Carl); step-daughter, Gale (Brent); step-son, Dale (Vicky); sisters, May (Bob) Bannerman and Fay (Dallas) Haeberle; numerous grandchildren, great- grand-children and nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his first wife, Margret Anne.


Jack always had a great love for horses and was a strong supporter to the horse world. He was a color inspector for the Pinto Association, was one the founding directors of the Didsbury Light Horse Association as well as an active member for most of his life. He was the leader for the Didsbury 4-H Horse Club as well as judging horse shows throughout the province.


Jack, Linda and family established Peaceful Valley Stables in the late 70’s. A thoroughbred boarding, breeding and foaling facility. Soon Jack became directly involved in the Canadian Thoroughbreed Horse Society and served as a director on the board for many years.


He always enjoyed horse racing and in later years always had a horse at the track. Having sold the farm Jack and Linda moved to Olds in December 2021.


Many thanks to the nursing staff and doctors at the Olds Hospital for the great care and compassion shown to him.


 In lieu of flowers a donation in Jack’s memory may be made to the S.P.C.A, S.T.A.R.S. or a charity of the donors choice.'



MOUNTAIN VIEW TODAY Obituary Notice for Jack Johnston


Share

By Lindsay Ward October 28, 2025
Understanding where Thoroughbreds go after their racing and breeding careers will advance the entire industry’s aftercare efforts and support welfare, accountability, and public trust in the sport.
By Lindsay Ward October 15, 2025
The closing date for entries is November 12, 2025 and entry forms are available at cthsnational.com
By Lindsay Ward October 1, 2025
NEWS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 29, 2025 Calgary, AB – Racing, Rewards & Celebration: Don’t Miss the 2025 Sales Stakes Festival The Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (CTHS) – Alberta Division is excited to announce that the 2025 Sales Stakes Festival will take place on Saturday, October 4th at Century Downs Racetrack and Casino , with the first post at 4:45 PM . This annual showcase has become one of the most exciting days of the year for Alberta’s racing community, highlighting the quality and strength of CTHS Sales Stake graduates. Owners: Bigger and Better Rewards Owners of Alberta-breds will once again enjoy the benefit of a 25% bonus paid to the owners of Alberta-bred horses finishing win, place, or show in the Sales Stakes races. This program ensures that investing in Alberta-bred horses continues to deliver unmatched value, living up to the motto: “Owners of Alberta-breds earn more.” Trainers: Pride and Bragging Rights on the Line Trainers will also be chasing a unique prize. In 2025, the leading Sales Stakes trainer will be awarded a custom champion belt buckle – a one-of-a-kind award that symbolizes the best of Alberta racing and provides lasting bragging rights for the winning connections. Purse Money and Race Schedule This year’s Festival will feature four $50,000 sales stakes races , offering a total of $200,000 in total purse money . These races will feature graduates of the CTHS Alberta Yearling Sales, with divisions for: Two-Year-Old Colts & Geldings (6 furlongs) Two-Year-Old Fillies (6 furlongs) Three & Four-Year-Old Colts & Geldings (7 furlongs) Three & Four-Year-Old Fillies (7 furlongs) Festival Atmosphere: A Celebration for Everyone The Sales Stakes Festival is more than a day of racing – it’s a celebration of Alberta’s breeders, owners, and horses. Fans will enjoy great racing, food, and community spirit throughout the day. Adding to the excitement, Balzac Craft Brewing Company will be on-site pouring free samples, giving racegoers a chance to enjoy local flavors while taking in the action on the track. Campus Derby Day Scholarship Giveaway The Festival also coincides with Campus Derby Day , providing a special opportunity for students. Post-secondary students in attendance can enter a draw to win one of two $1,000 scholarships , making the event an even more memorable experience for Alberta’s next generation. Eligibility and Canadian Sales Stakes Series The CTHS Alberta Sales Stakes are part of the Canadian Sales Stakes Series , established in 2018. Yearlings that meet eligibility requirements through their respective CTHS Provincial Sales are eligible to run in Sales Stakes races across Canada. In Alberta, horses must have passed through the CTHS Alberta Yearling Sale , with full commissions and fees paid to the CTHS, to qualify for the Series. The 2025 Sales Stakes Festival is shaping up to be one of the premier events of the season. With exciting competition, valuable incentives, and a festival atmosphere, it’s a day that celebrates the very best of Alberta horse racing. Bring your friends, cheer on your favorites, and be part of the excitement as we crown the champions of this year’s Festival. For more information, visit the CTHS Alberta website at www.cthsalta.com . - 30 -
By Lindsay Ward September 23, 2025
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release September 22, 2025 Alberta Yearling Market Soars 47% Red Deer, AB – The 2025 CTHS Alberta Thoroughbred sale delivered one of its strongest results in nearly two decades, with competitive bidding throughout the day and significant increases over recent years. The CTHS Alberta is prou
By Lindsay Ward September 16, 2025
September 15, 2025 News Release 
By Lindsay Ward September 9, 2025
Sale connections to the Alberta Breeders' Fall Classic nominees!
By Admin August 18, 2025
The 2025 CTHS Alberta Thoroughbred sale online catalogue is now live on the website at https://www.cthsalta.com/2025-cths-alberta-sale Join us for the annual Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (Alberta Division) Yearling Sale — taking place on Friday, September 19th at 3:00 PM in the Agricentre East at Westerner Park,
News
By Lindsay Ward August 18, 2025
On Tuesday August 12th, Thoroughbred OwnerView hosted the webinar "Buying at the Sales and Digital Sales". The webinar included some excellent discussions about both the in-person sales and the newest trend in digital sales. Please use the link to access the recorded version of the webinar.'
By Lindsay Ward July 16, 2025
If you’re looking to responsibly retire your Thoroughbred, The Jockey Club provides a list of resources and programs to help you do so.
By Lindsay Ward July 16, 2025
OTTB Profile is the first Equineline report centered on Thoroughbreds retiring from the track or enjoying their second careers.