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2024 Announcements
NHPA Hall of Fame inductee: jane york
nhpa's don harrison award winner: Gary currier
nhpa's don harrison award winner: Gary currier
Ladies and Gentlemen and Esteemed Members of the Hall of Fame,
It is my great honor today to induct Jane York into our Hall of Fame. We’re here to celebrate not only her remarkable contributions but a person who has given so much to the sport we all cherish.
Her journey begins in Portland, Maine, in 1978—a pivotal year not just for the sp
Ladies and Gentlemen and Esteemed Members of the Hall of Fame,
It is my great honor today to induct Jane York into our Hall of Fame. We’re here to celebrate not only her remarkable contributions but a person who has given so much to the sport we all cherish.
Her journey begins in Portland, Maine, in 1978—a pivotal year not just for the sport but for Jane and her late husband, Carl York. On what was quite literally a first date, Carl took a leap of faith and invited Jane to a horseshoe tournament. Now, for most people, a horseshoe event might seem like an interesting date choice. But Carl had a unique perspective. He knew that if Jane could handle that first date, they were bound to make a great team.
Well, Jane not only embraced the sport but thrived in it, proving that she was more than up to the challenge.
Jane’s commitment to the sport didn’t stop with her own participation. From 1982 to 2003, she served as the Secretary/Treasurer for the Maine State Horseshoe Pitchers Association. Her tenure was marked by tireless dedication and meticulous attention to detail. In 1992 and 1998, thanks to her hard work and organizational skills, Maine had the honor of hosting the New England tournament. These were times when everything was done by hand—each schedule, each notification was painstakingly prepared and sent out via postcards. Her dedication ensured that every pitch and every participant received the attention they deserved.
Perhaps one of Jane’s most significant achievements was her role as the first female President of the New England Horseshoe Pitchers Association, a position she held from 1984 to 1986. Jane broke new ground during her presidency, setting a precedent for future leaders and demonstrating that leadership and vision are not defined by gender but by passion and competence. Her tenure as President was a testament to her forward-thinking approach and her unwavering commitment to advancing the sport.
Jane, your contributions extend far beyond the accolades and titles. You have been a beacon of inspiration, a champion of the sport, and a steadfast friend to the horseshoe pitching community. Your legacy is one of excellence, perseverance, and trailblazing leadership. Today, as we induct you into the Hall of Fame, we honor not only your achievements but also the spirit and dedication you have brought to the sport we all love.
Congratulations, Jane York. Thank you for your remarkable service and for setting a shining example for all of us.
nhpa's don harrison award winner: Gary currier
nhpa's don harrison award winner: Gary currier
nhpa's don harrison award winner: Gary currier
Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow horseshoe enthusiasts,
It is with great pleasure and profound admiration that we gather here today to celebrate a remarkable individual and to bestow upon him the prestigious Don Harrison Award. This award is reserved for those who have not only excelled in the sport of horseshoes but have
Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow horseshoe enthusiasts,
It is with great pleasure and profound admiration that we gather here today to celebrate a remarkable individual and to bestow upon him the prestigious Don Harrison Award. This award is reserved for those who have not only excelled in the sport of horseshoes but have also made extraordinary contributions to its growth and development. Today, we honor a man who embodies the very spirit of this award: Gary Currier.
Gary's journey in the world of horseshoes is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sport we all hold dear. In 2014, Gary embarked on an ambitious project that would change the landscape of horseshoe pitching in Maine. He founded the Maine Indoor Horseshoe Club, a sanctuary for players during the harsh winter months. With a vision in mind, he rolled up his sleeves and, together with a team, transformed the lower level of a former shoe factory into a vibrant hub for horseshoe enthusiasts. Six meticulously constructed courts emerged from that space, providing a welcoming arena for players from Maine and New Hampshire.
But Gary's vision didn’t stop there. He understood the importance of fostering a community, and through Saturday tournaments, Tuesday and Thursday leagues, and an open-door policy, he created an environment where players of all levels could come together. He sought advice from seasoned NHPA members—John Alley, Larry Davis, Darlene Gammon, Deb and Jim Sully, Mike Brown, and others—to ensure that every player’s experience was nothing short of exceptional. Under his guidance, the club flourished, becoming more than just a place to play—it became a family.
Gary's efforts extended beyond the courts. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, he championed the transition from “Maine Indoor Horseshoe Club” to “Maine Indoor Horseshoe Courts,” making it clear that this was a place for everyone, not just a select few. He reached out to the community through local newspapers, Facebook, and by simply inviting people to stop by, ensuring that the sport remained accessible and inviting.
His dedication to growing the sport didn’t go unnoticed. He initiated two annual NHPA-sanctioned tournaments that have become pillars of the club’s success, drawing players from across New England and contributing significantly to the financial stability of the Courts. And in true Gary fashion, he connected the sport to the community by organizing the Shoes for the Shelter Tournament, which raised donations for a local animal shelter—a cause close to the hearts of many.
Even after moving north to Oxbow, Gary’s commitment never wavered. He entrusted the daily operations of the Courts to capable hands, Marc and Robin Ritchie, yet remained an active Tournament Director for the NHPA events. His influence continues as he builds four new courts on his family farm, with a vision to expand horseshoe play in Aroostook County.
Gary is not just a leader; he’s a competitor. Whether in Maine, New England, or on the world stage, he brings the same level of intensity and passion to his game as he does to his community work. Yet, even as a fierce competitor, he is always willing to lend a hand, offering advice and encouragement to others, embodying the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Today, as we honor Gary Currier with the Don Harrison Award, we celebrate not just his achievements but the positive impact he has had on countless lives. His vision, dedication, and unwavering support for the sport of horseshoes have left an indelible mark on our community. Gary, you have inspired us all, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
Please join me in congratulating the 2024 recipient of the Don Harrison Award, Mr. Gary Currier!
Memberships & Updates
Looking to become a member? Click the link to register online:
Become a member - eShoe (nhpa-eshoe.com)
or mail me your name, address, telephone number and date of birth with a check for $35.00 [made out to NHPA].
Looking to renew your Membership? Click the link to renew online: NHPA - eShoe - Type in your name to locate your membership and select "Renew" or mail a check for $35.00 [made out to: NHPA] with your name, address and phone number.
*Purchases online cost $35.00+tax
Mail info above and check ($35.00) to:
Kristen Burke
36 Brann Road
Somerville, Maine 04348
New NHPA By-Law starting with 2023 Membership
Elder age eligibility has been lowered from 70 to 65 years
Any Adult Male turning 65 or older in 2023 may register as an Elder and pitch from 30 feet.
This will require pitching 100 shoes in the presence of an NHPA member, to get a new average.
Notices
You will now find your averages in eShoe. If anyone needs help navigating please contact Kristen to help you find what you are looking for.
Congratulations to our 2024 State Tournament Champions!
Men's champion
Men's champion
Men's champion
Gary Currier - 52.96%
women's champion
Men's champion
Men's champion
Vicki Hannan - 46.10%
elder's champion
Men's champion
elder's champion
Rod Blood - 66.17%
Where and When
Tournament Schedules
MAKE SURE YOU'RE LOOKING AT THE CORRECT YEAR INFO
2024 Tournament Schedule
New England Schedule link
NHPA link
Tournament line up
See the tentative lineup for the next scheduled tournament
MAKE SURE YOU'RE LOOKING AT THE CORRECT YEAR INFO
Who's entered in next tournament
Snowball Tournament
St. Paddy's Day Tournament
Clyde Hewitt Tournament
York Family Tradition
States Warm Up Tournament
Maine States (Closed)
Maine Doubles Tournament