The team managing the 250th Anniversary of Horse Racing in Canada (#cdnhorseracing250) has been busy working with racetracks, agricultural societies, industry associations and farms putting together activities and celebrations of this monumental milestone in Canada’s horse racing history.

The excitement is building as plans are finalized to host commemorative miles across the country throughout 2017. The first one on the calendar will take place as part of the Mother’s Day Open House at Mac Lilley Farms, located at 28322 Chalmers Line, Dutton, Ontario this Sunday, May 14. At 3:00 p.m., Il Sogno Dream and Alex Lilley will take to the track for a mile in recognition of Mac Lilley Farm’s 50 years of operation. The fastest trotter in North America in 2015 is currently doing double duty, as he is spending time in the Mac Lilley Farm breeding shed as well as beginning preparations for his 2017 race season.

The farm is open to guests from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. and will provide an opportunity to get up close and personal with Standardbred mares and foals, take a ride behind a racehorse, learn about the history of both Mac Lilley Farms and Canadian horse racing as well as many other activities.

The 250th anniversary of horse racing team will be on hand to answer questions, and provide 250th anniversary of horse racing colouring sheets and other giveaways for the kids. There will also be CHRHF and 250th anniversary merchandise available for purchase.

In the coming weeks, look for 250th anniversary displays and merchandise available at the following track events:

May 14 – Mac Lilley Farms Mother’s Day Open House, Dutton, ON
May 20 – Mohawk Racetrack Fireworks Night, Campbellville, ON
May 21 – Flamboro Downs – Confederation Cup, Flamboro, ON
May 28 – Grand River Raceway – Open House, Elora, ON

Thank you to industry partners Standardbred Canada, Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society, HBPA, COSA, OHHA, ASHA, and Harness Racing BC for their financial contributions to this year’s celebration.

New events and activities are being added to the calendar frequently. To stay up to date on all the latest 250th Anniversary of Horse Racing in Canada activities, or find out how you can get involved, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or visit the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame website. #cdnhorseracing250

(Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame)