The 1989 Hambletonian race-off between Park Avenue Joe and Probe, which ended in a rare dead heat, remains legendary and is considered the greatest race call of announcer Tom Durkin’s career. Durkin, known for his extensive experience in both harness and thoroughbred racing, famously declared the finish “TOO CLOSE TO CALL!” as the two horses crossed the line simultaneously in a two-horse showdown. The race was extraordinary not only for its nail-biting finish but also for the grueling conditions and the horses’ remarkable performances, including the fastest last quarter in Hambletonian history despite the hot, humid weather.

The aftermath was equally dramatic, with a lengthy review of the photo finish and a complex ruling that initially declared Park Avenue Joe the winner based on race summaries, only for the decision to be overturned two years later, naming both horses co-winners. Durkin reflects on the uniqueness of the event, noting that changes in race format mean such a dead heat scenario will never be repeated. He regards the 1989 Hambletonian as the most thrilling race he has ever called, surpassing even the prestigious thoroughbred classics like the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup.