Remembering Dale Schenian: Co-Founder of Canterbury Park
Dale Schenian, a larger-than-life businessman and co-founder of Canterbury Park, passed away on August 25 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of success and innovation.
Schenian, originally from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, grew up in South St. Paul and started his working career unloading boxcars for a local lumber yard. He later ventured into the auto glass industry, acquiring a glass and paint business from a family member. His focus shifted towards auto glass repair and replacement, and he eventually sold his original business to Safelite AutoGlass. In 1990, Schenian founded City Auto Glass, which he led until 2000. His son, Mike Schenian, succeeded him as president, and the company was eventually sold to its employees in 2015.
Throughout his career, Schenian initiated and sold several other successful businesses, including a collision center in Fridley and Damon’s, an Inver Grove Heights restaurant now known as B-52 Burgers & Brew.
However, Schenian’s most notable association was with the horse track, Canterbury Park. In the 1980s, he established a horse breeding operation in Randolph, Minnesota, coinciding with the opening of Canterbury Downs racetrack in Shakopee. When financial difficulties led to the track’s closure in 1992, Schenian’s conversation with horse owners Randy Sampson and his father Curt became a turning point. Schenian’s willingness to invest in purchasing Canterbury catalyzed the revival of the track, and Canterbury Park was opened in 1994, with live horse racing resuming the following year.
Known for his vibrant personality, Schenian was “the ideas guy” at Canterbury and served as the track’s ambassador. He introduced innovative promotions like “Buck Night,” a weekly event offering admission, hot dogs, and drinks for just $1. Schenian’s energy and charisma made Canterbury Park an exciting and welcoming place for visitors.
In 2019, Dale Schenian retired from Canterbury’s board of directors and assumed an emeritus position with Curt Sampson. He and his wife, Bette, moved to Florida full-time, but he had plans to attend the upcoming Minnesota Festival of Champions at Canterbury Park in September.
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Dale Schenian’s legacy as a successful businessman and co-founder of Canterbury Park will be celebrated and remembered by those whose lives he touched. His contributions to the racing and business communities continue to have a lasting impact.
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