Back in the sulky for one last night of racing, Gord Brown closed out his driving career on Sunday night (May 21) at Rideau Carleton Raceway while competing with his brother Doug in the Brown Vs. Brown Driver Feature Night.

The National Capital Region Harness Horse Association (NCRHHA) organized Sunday's event as a farewell tribute to Gord Brown, who announced his retirement from driving last November. For one night only, Gord returned to action in a head-to-head, eight-race driving competition against his Hall of Fame brother Doug Brown.

The night began with a VIP and Brown family reception prior to the racing program followed by a meet and greet autograph signing session with the Brown brothers for fans.

NCRHHA Director John MacMillan and Rideau's Graham Mitchell provided race commentary throughout the night and interviewed the star drivers, who were overwhelmed by the turnout for the event and comments shared by their fellow horsemen and fans.

"It was very overwhelming and one comment that wasn't put on there [in the program] and probably the greatest compliment I got in my career is from a lady who is here tonight, Sharon Christie," said Gord. "I remember her walking in one night and she wanted to know if I could be cloned. I thought that was probably the nicest thing that anyone has ever said. Again, like Doug said and I said, it's very, very overwhelming. I almost feel like Elvis except I'm still living."

On track, Doug won three races during the Brown Vs. Brown driving challenge. One of the highlights of the night was a 1-2 finish for the brothers in the evening's second challenge race (race four). Diggin In led the way for Gord before Doug sent Lookin Ata Winner wide off cover and a stretch duel ensued with the latter Brown prevailing at the wire.

"The roar of the crowd was unbelievable," said guest host Hec Clouthier of the match-up. "It was just ecstasy because they could see the two Browns battle neck and neck, head to head to the finish line."

Throughout the driving challenge, fans participated in a contest submitting ballots each race to back the Brown of their choice with the chance to win betting vouchers, a winner's circle photo and signed whip.

The eight-race driving challenge wrapped up with the Stan Brown Memorial, named for the Browns' late father and mentor. The 10th race memorial was won by Modern Mystery and trainer/driver Matt Harvey in a photo finish with After Market and Ryan Guy.

Gord finished second in his final drive behind runaway winner Highland Tartan, rallying Solid Performance from last to place in the top class Winners Over Pace.

To view Sunday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Sunday Results - Rideau Carleton Raceway.