Organizers for the 27th edition of the O’Brien Awards are pleased to announce that Etobicoke, Ontario native Kaitlin Kozell will open the Gala with the American and Canadian national anthems.
Kozell, 25, is a country music singer/songwriter who is no stranger to performing at major sporting events with her rendition of O Canada. Kaitlin has had the opportunity to perform at numerous Toronto Maple Leaf games, Toronto Marlie games, and other MLSE events and functions. The highlight of Kaitlin’s Anthem reel was making her CBC debut on Hockey Night in Canada in 2013.
Kozell was to have sung the anthems at last year’s gala but came down with the flu the day before the O’Brien’s and could barely speak, let alone sing. She’s looking forward to performing this year.
Her singing career is going strong and Kaitlin has released three singles to country radio, “Do It Again”, “Wrong”, and her latest single released June 16th, 2014, “Up From Here”.
Kaitlin played at Boots and Hearts in 2015 and was part of the event’s Emerging Artist Showcase in 2014.
Saturday Night Jive, one of Toronto’s best event bands will be taking the stage after the awards presentations and provide dance music until 1:00 a.m.
The 2015 O’Brien Awards are scheduled for Saturday, February 13 at the Hilton Mississauga / Meadowvale Hotel. Canada’s harness racing champions will be announced at the Black Tie Gala which will feature an “Old Hollywood” theme. Tickets are available by contacting the Industry Marketing Department at (905) 858-3060.