Growing up in Arkell (just outside of Guelph), watching farmers play horseshoes on a weekend night was part of the local fabric. But watching wasn’t enough for a young Tom Gallina.
He played on his first local touring team in 1980, finally qualifying on an individual basis to play in ‘A’ Class provincial tournament in 1986. The newcomer shocked everyone by finishing fourth in his first big event. But the best was yet to come.
Gallina would become one of the most consistent players around winning five provincial titles through the 90’s. At his first National Championship in 1995 he won the ‘B’ Class championship throwing almost 72% ringers.
In 1997 he became the best player in Canada by winning his first ‘A’ Class championship in St. John, New Brunswick. The following year he defended his national title in Victoria, B.C. with a 17- 1 record. He has played in several World Championships finishing in the top 10.
Tom Gallina has also given back to his community developing twelve professional pitching courts at the Guelph Legion.
He was elected to the Ontario Horseshoe Hall of Fame in 2000.
Inducted into the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame – Athlete category – on April 16, 2002
