Published: August 18, 2011 4:19 pm ET

Last Comment: August 18, 2011 11:47 pm ET | 2 Comment(s) | Jump to Comments

In an effort to maximize horse entries at both Flamboro Downs and Georgian Downs, racetrack management, in cooperation with the Ontario Harness Horse Association, is implementing the use of social media to connect with the racing industry.

With the launch of a new Facebook page, Flamboro Downs and Georgian Downs now possess the tools to notify hundreds of interested trainers and owners when classes are left open in order to fill those races.

“We view this as another tool that will allow us the opportunity to inform a large community in a short period of time when the box remains open for entries,” stated Flamboro and Georgian's race secretary, Sheri Minler-Grabatin.

To receive Facebook notifications, simply log in to the Facebook website (facebook.com) and type in 'Ontario Racing Program.' Once there, click on the 'like' icon. You will then receive notifications via Facebook when classes remain open. To receive the notifications by text on any mobile device, simply click on the 'subscribe via sms updates' on the left-hand side of the screen and follow the directions.

“Technology has allowed us to do many things in nontraditional ways” stated Brian Tropea, general manager of OHHA. “If we can better inform our members when racing opportunities exist then I believe that we should embrace that technology. This is something new and unique and we will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of it going forward.”

(With files from OHHA)