This weekend’s harness-racing season finale will be bittersweet for team owner, trainer and former driver Antwan Edwards.

The 56-year-old plans to retire from the sport after all is said and done on the racetrack at the National Equestrian Centre today and tomorrow.

“Approximately 21 years ago, what began as a partnership between two friends, centred around the showing and breeding of Rottweilers, blossomed into a passionate involvement with racing and breeding ponies,” Edwards told The Royal Gazette.“My fascination with animal bloodlines found fertile ground in this new venture.

“The journey started with Happy Hank, my inaugural racing pony, and will conclude with Special Tux, marking the end of my era.

“Pony racing has been an enriching experience, bringing me into contact with remarkable individuals locally, across Canada and in Indiana.

“Special Tux’s lineage is tied to figures in the pony racing community.

“His half-brother, Special Gold, owned by Lee Raynor Jr and Sergio Raynor, and his grandfather, Shamrock Tuxedo, owned by Andy Stoneham, stand as a testament to his distinguished pedigree.

“His father, GB Sir Tux, and mother, Mr Special Iris, both world champions, further underscore his impressive ancestry.”

Edwards’s stallion is competing in the 1:04/1 – 1:05/4 time bar with driver Kiwon Waldron at the helm.

“Special Tux’s journey has been one of remarkable transformation,” he added. “From his humble beginnings, struggling to find his pace, to steadily improving his times year after year. His progress has been nothing short of inspiring.

“My ultimate aspiration is to see him break the 1:04 flat barrier, a testament to his speed and prowess on the track.”

While he is passionate about the sport, Edwards says it can be very demanding.

“Pony racing demands unwavering dedication, meticulous preparation, considerable financial investment and a steadfast commitment to excellence,” he added.

“As I transition into a new phase of my life, one that allows me to explore travel, golf, and cherish moments with family and friends, I reflect on the profound support I've received along the way.

“Seeing my parents in the stands every weekend, regardless of the weather, remains one of the most gratifying aspects of this journey.

“Their unwavering encouragement serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of familial support and should never be taken for granted.”

Edwards also expressed his thanks to all those who have helped him throughout his career.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Aaron Sims and Arnold Manders for their invaluable advice and unwavering support throughout the years,” he said.

“I also express my deepest appreciation to the drivers who have played pivotal roles in Happy Hank and Special Tux’s journey, including Eddie Roque, Charles Whited Jr, Kirista Rabain, Darico Clarke and Kiwon Waldron.

“As we approach the culmination of this chapter, I am reminded of the silent but steadfast support of my wife, children and other family members.

“This moment, while bittersweet, marks the end of an era filled with cherished memories and also remarkable achievements.

“Join us this weekend for one last dance as we bid farewell to a journey that has been nothing short of extraordinary.”

Edwards is one of two team owners retiring this weekend as colleague Lee Raynor Jr has also decided to call time on his career.

Raynor’s stallion, Special Gold, posted the season’s fastest time of 1:02 flat with driver Waldron and is among the six-horse field competing for the coveted Champion of Champions crown this weekend, which includes defending champion War Machine.