It’s been over a year in the planning, but in only five weeks time Standardbred Canada will crown a new champion at the 2018 National Driving Championship (NDC) at Grand River Raceway on Wednesday, September 26.

Eight drivers from across the country who have qualified in regional events will convene at the Elora oval on the final race card of Grand River’s 2018 season and compete in eight races to determine who will make the trip to Sweden for the 2019 World Driving Championship (WDC).

“What a great way to close our season — on a total high note!” said Kelly Spencer, Grand River Raceway’s Marketing Manager. “We’ve been working closely with Standardbred Canada and have some pretty cool things on tap for this event. Hosting the NDC is a real source of pride for us, and we’ll do our best to ensure it’s a memorable night for the drivers, their entourages, and of course our guests.”

In addition to what promises to be some very competitive on track action, organizers will also have a great line up of events and contests for fans to take part in which will be announced in the coming weeks.

“SC is looking forward to presenting the 2018 NDC. This sixth edition includes some of our most experienced and talented drivers from across the country,” said Kathy Wade Vlaar, Manager of SC’s Industry Marketing Department. “The race card, combined with all of the on-track activities that are planned will provide a great fan experience at Grand River and a first class simulcast product.”

Earlier this year, four Regional Driving Championships were held across the country to determine the eight competitors in the National.

Here’s a look at the field for the 2018 National Driving Championship:

Gilles Barrieau – Gilles won the 2018 Atlantic Regional. After winning the 2007 National Driving Championship (inaugural edition), he went on to represent Canada in the 2007 WDC event in New Zealand & Australia. Gilles also competed in the 2011 NDC.

Stephane Brosseau – Stephane was runner up in the Eastern Ontario / Quebec event, and is a first-time competitor in the NDC.

Redmond Doucet – Redmond was runner-up in the Atlantic Regional and will be making his first appearance in the NDC.

Guy Gagnon – Guy won the Eastern Ontario / Quebec Regional and competed in the 2009, 2014, and 2016 NDC.

Jamie Gray – Jamie was runner-up in the Western Regional. This will be his first appearance in the National Driving Championship.

Trevor Henry – Trevor won the Ontario Regional, and competed in the 2011 and 2016 NDC. He was Canada’s representative to the 2013 WDC in France following Jody Jamieson’s scratch.

Kelly Hoerdt – Kelly won the Western Regional event and competed in the 2009 NDC.

Louis-Philippe Roy - Louis was runner up in the Ontario Regional and this is his first time competing in the NDC.