The Raceway at Western Fair District is now less than two weeks away from kicking off its 2019/20 live racing season and one of those anxiously awaiting its return is defending driving champion Scott Coulter.

The resident of Brantford, Ont. has long been one of the most recognizable figures on Ontario’s ‘Signature Track’ circuit. He has recorded more than 5,000 wins in the sulky to this point in his career and has steered his drives to over $34 million in purse earnings.

In 2018, Coulter captured his first driving title at ‘The Raceway’ and he is anxious to get back at it when racing resumes at the London oval on Friday, October 4.

“I’ve had a great summer and (am) looking forward to the fall,” Coulter said. “I wasn’t as hard on myself or the roads as I didn’t take many trips to Georgian Downs. I took a different approach with less work and more family time. That being said, I’m fresh for the fall and ready to go.”

Scott Coulter is honoured trackside by Greg Blanchard (left) and Greg Gangle (right) following his 5,000th career driving win.

Coulter attributes much of the success he has had in London in recent years to the terrific support he received from owners and trainers.

“I’ve had a lot of luck racing at London over the years,” said the veteran driver. “I have a lot of great clients and horsepower always helps. I’m looking forward to having more success.”

Coulter says he quickly noticed the high-definition upgrade which was collectively implemented at racetracks across Ontario this season – upgrades that were made possible through the OR/OLG capital funding platform.

“I can’t think of any sport that warrants HD more than harness racing,” Coulter said. “I’ve seen the positive effects thus far at Grand River, Flamboro and Georgian Downs. It’s a great initiative and I think all the horsepeople thoroughly enjoy the new technology.”

The Raceway will kick off live racing on Friday (Oct. 1). The weekly fall schedule features racing every Monday and Tuesday at 6:15 p.m. and Friday nights at 6:55 p.m.

The popular wagering menu will once again feature a trio of guaranteed wagers. The Pick-3 will feature a $2,500 guarantee with a new 60-cent minimum, while a pair of $5,000 guaranteed Pick-4 pools and a pair of Super Hi-5 wagers will be offered – all of the aforementioned wagers will feature a 15 per cent takeout.

The Super Hi-5 races will be contested at the distance of one and one-sixteenth miles.

Customers can also experience the newly renovated Top of the Fair restaurant. To celebrate, The Raceway is offering a ‘Two Can Dine For $59.99’ promotion during the entire month of October.

To make reservations at the Top of the Fair, email [email protected] or call 519-438-7203 (Ext. 252). For complete details, visit westernfairdistrict.com.

(The Raceway at Western Fair District)