Caretaker Kelley McNiven is taking the reins to organize a Christmas toy drive and contest for Woodbine Mohawk Park horsepeople to support the second annual Drivers’ Holiday Challenge taking place next month at The Raceway at the Western Fair District.

The Raceway will host the Drivers’ Holiday Challenge in support of Toys for Tots on a special Sunday, Dec. 12 program featuring five top local drivers and three from Woodbine Mohawk Park. The reinsmen will be generously donating a portion of their driver earnings for the evening to Toys For Tots to purchase Christmas toys for children in need. The Raceway will also be matching the drivers' donations.

Following in the footsteps of the toy collection drive run last year by Trevor and Shannon Henry at Mohawk in support of the London event, McNiven has stepped up to lead the initiative this year.

"Last year, Shannon Henry and Trevor Henry did a tremendous job collecting donations at Woodbine Mohawk Park," said McNiven, daughter of London area trainer Scott McNiven. "Once again, a contest will be held for this event. Let’s help ensure every child has the opportunity of having a magical Christmas!"

Those who wish to donate an unwrapped toy or a monetary donation will receive a ballot to indicate which driver they think will win this year's charity challenge. Anyone who donates will be put into a draw to earn a chance at winning a $100 gift card to The Keg donated by Twinbrook Farms. Those who choose the winning driver will be put into a separate draw for the chance to earn a $100 ultimate dining gift card donated by Mark Mainprize.

Donations will be accepted until Saturday, Dec. 11. Toy and monetary donations can be given to McNiven, Emma Christoforou, Joanne Colville, Monica Fritz or Scott Young. Those making contributions are asked to label donated gifts with your name and the driver you think will win this year's charity challenge. Pick up of items can also be arranged. E-transfers can also be sent to [email protected].

The drivers competing in this year's Drivers' Holiday Challenge are Tyler Borth, Natasha Day, Colin Kelly, Anthony MacDonald, James MacDonald, Austin Sorrie, Scott Wray and Scott Young.