It will be off to the races for Truro Raceway fans next month, as the local harness racing community is gearing up to commence the track’s 2017 season on Sunday, May 7. First-race post time will be 1:00 p.m.

Kelly MacEachen, event coordinator at the NSPEC Complex where Truro Raceway is located, says she's excited to get the live racing up and running. "We're looking forward to some new things this year; our Cheering for Charity campaign has taken on a new twist," she said.

MacEachen says charities and community organizations will be fundraising as a part of the live race cards by selling special race-day packages. She said that the Truro Raceway is partnering with a variety of groups to help create a unique experience.

Groups will sell tickets which include prime seating in the grandstand, a meal from the Top of the Turn diner, and betting vouchers. All of the profits from the tickets will go directly to the organization selling them.

While there isn't a charity lined up for the season opener yet, some dates have already been booked and organizers are confident it will be a popular fundraising opportunity for the community.

A schedule of live racing, live-simulcasts, and special events can be found at nspe.ca.

Organizations wishing to participate in Cheering for Charity can contact MacEachen at 902-893-9222 or [email protected].

(NSPEC)