Haughton, Billy

Billy Haughton, byname of William R. Haughton, (born Nov. 23, 1923, Gloversville, N.Y., U.S.—died July 15, 1986, Valhalla, N.Y.), American harness-racing driver and trainer. He was the foremost driver in annual winnings in 1952–59, 1963, 1965, and 1967–68.

Haughton came to harness racing from a farming background in upstate New York. By the time of his death Haughton had won more than 4,900 races and earned about $40 million in purses. He was a leading trainer as well; his star Standardbred horses included Windshield Wiper, Rum Customer, Romulus Hanover, Laverne Hanover, Duke Rodney, Handle With Care, Christopher T., Rising Wind, Spartan Hanover, and Pammy Lobell. Haughton was inducted into the Harness Hall of Fame in 1968. Included among his awards was the special Grand Circuit Centennial Gold Medallion for his outstanding contributions to the sport of harness racing. He died from injuries sustained in an accident during a harness race.