Jim Maupin, 72, Dies
Jim Maupin, 72, of Campbellsville, Kentucky, died Thursday, February 20, 2003, apparently of a heart attack. Mr. Maupin raced Standardbreds from about 1955 to 1990 and, according to his family, won more than 2,800 races. Driving a horse owned by Jack Gray, he recorded his 2,000th win at Louisville Downs. The USTA credits him with winning a total of 2,283 races from the time the association initiated record-keeping until his retirement. Tom White, communications director at The Red Mile in Lexington, Kentucky, said he ranks 246th out of 794 drivers winning 1,000 or more races. His friends in the industry will most likely remember seeing him race in Kentucky. He was a regular competitor at tracks in the Bluegrass State like The Red Mile, Louisville Downs, and Audubon Raceway in Henderson, Kentucky. As a driver, he earned Leading Driver title at Louisville Downs many times. He was the regular pilot of Empire Jonnie, an Open Mare Trotter, whose earnings totaled $187,495. Din's Skipper ($161,220) also benefited from Mr. Maupin's driving skill. He also raced in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, New York, and Florida. He enjoyed much success in the 1970s, when he raced against guys like Mike Arnold and Dave Howard. A veteran, he served in the Army during the Korean War. Mr. Maupin is survived by his wife, Dorothy Copley Maupin, and his son (J.W. Maupin) and daughter (Sharon Franklin). He also had two sisters and five grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday, February 22nd, at Parrott & Ramsey Funeral Home. Cards may be sent to the family at: 405 Lowell Ave., Campbellsville, KY 42718-1715