James Archibald Ferguson was instrumental in establishing the sport of harness racing in Cape Breton. Extremely active from 1948-1978, Ferguson was the prime mover in the formation of the Cape Breton Turf Club, which has operated harness racing since 1948.

Known to many people as the “Father of Modern Harness Racing in Cape Breton” Ferguson is best known for his achievements as a track operator and promoter. Among his other contributions, he introduced night harness racing and the mobile gate start to encourage fan support. He also often purchased horses for resale in the local area to help spur the sport’s advancement. From 1960-1966 Ferguson also served as the Maritime Representative on the board of directors of the United States Trotting Association.

In 1978, when he sold the Sydney Sports Centre, the new owner promptly named a race in his honor, the J.A. Ferguson Pace, as recognition for his contribution to harness racing in Cape Breton.