Fraser Downs, in co-operation with Harness Racing BC in Surrey, B.C., The Raceway at the Western Fair District in London, Ont., and Flamboro Downs near Dundas, Ont., all hosted Caretaker Appreciation events this past weekend.
National Caretaker Appreciation Day events, initiated by Standardbred Canada, and supported by horsemen’s associations and tracks across the country, has been extremely well received across the country, with 17 racetrack partners participating in events in July and October.
"The people who work so hard in the backstretch looking after the horses really appreciated being recognized for all that they do for not only the horses, but for horse racing too. They were really quite excited to be recognized – this is a great program to do going forward!" commented Carla Robin, Executive Director of Harness Racing BC following the Caretaker Appreciation event hosted at Fraser Downs on Friday, October 5.
Caretakers are the foundation of the Standardbred breeding and racing industry. They are charged with the responsibility of making sure the horses they care for are happy and healthy, both physically and emotionally.
From announcing caretakers’ names in the post parades, to gifts for caretakers of winning horses, to draw prizes and providing refreshments, the events were focused on recognizing the hard work that caretakers do.
At Fraser Downs, Track Announcer Dan Jukich summarized the role of the caretaker in his opening remarks to race fans at the start of the card:
“It’s a time to recognize and appreciate the hardworking men and women who devote their time and passion to the care taking of the race horses you see here tonight. Most of them look after these horses 7 days a week. They are the horse’s best friend; and day in and day out; they care for the horses.
“They do the feeding, cleaning, bathing, turnout, getting them ready for the races and looking after them, after the races. They also get some fun time playing with the horses. It’s not just a job, it’s a passion – so this is their night to be recognized. Thank you to all that you do for the horses...”
Fraser, Flamboro and The Raceway had numerous prizes and sponsors for their respective events.
Thank you to Ontario Racing, Gateway Casinos London, Veikko & Roberta Pajunen, JJJ Stables and Jim Marino for their support of their respective events.