As the 2009 edition of the O'Brien Awards is just days away, many are eagerly anticipating the night that celebrates the best in Canadian harness racing

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In speaking with two emcees for the evening, it's clear that they will do their part to ensure a memorable evening.

"I remember attending my first O'Brien Awards when Dan Loiselle was the emcee, and I marveled at the job he did," Ken Middleton told Trot Insider. "At the time I never thought that I'd find myself in that position, but I've been honoured to help out with the event. It is first class all the way."

Back for the seventh straight year, Middleton will co-anchor the awards with Dawn Lupul, who makes her first appearance in the emcee role.

"I've had the chance to meet and work with some incredible people from all over Canada at the O'Brien Awards, and I'm really looking forward to working with Dawn at this year's event," Middleton continued. "I've worked with her before, and anyone that knows her is fully aware of her professionalism in so many different facets of the sport. I'm sure she's just as stoked as I am to be contributing to the evening."

In fact, Lupul could even be more stoked than the seasoned veteran Middleton. A familiar face from her roles with Horse Racing Alberta, the WEG and HPI broadcasting teams and as the post-event interviewer at the 2008 O'Briens, Lupul clearly relishes the opportunity to co-host this year's industry awards gala.

"I have had the opportunity to attend the O'Brien awards the last two years and enjoyed myself immensely," said Lupul. "Having the opportunity to co-host such a prestigious event is a thrill for me and I am really looking forward to it. The night is filled with the best of our industry and to be a part of it is a true honour. Of course, working with Ken Middleton is always a fun time. With the two of us on stage together, everyone should expect the unexpected!"

This year's O'Brien Awards take place on Saturday, January 30 at the Delta Meadowvale in Mississauga, Ont.