In recognition of the 2021 fall edition of the National Caretaker Appreciation Day event taking place at The Raceway at Western Fair District on Friday, Dec. 3, Standardbred Canada has profiled caretaker Riley Simpson.

Riley Simpson of London, Ont. never would have imagined that attending the Ontario Harness Horse Association’s Youth Camp at Hiawatha Horse Park and Clinton Raceway would lead her to working with horses for the rest of her life.

“I went to the OHHA youth camp in 2006. I was lucky enough to drive with Dave Wall and win my race, which got me hooked on harness racing! From there, I started working as a caretaker for Ainsworth Stables and now, 15 years later, I work for trainer Jack Wray of Wray Stables.”

Over the last 15 years, Simpson has had the opportunity to work for many different trainers who have all mentored her into the caretaker she is today.

“My mentors in the industry are Larry and Jim Ainsworth, Ian Hyatt and Jack Wray. Working for them has taught me a lot of what I know today.”

Riley also has Jack to thank as he took her on as a full-time caretaker after the lockdowns in 2020 when she had to stop working full-time as a registered massage therapist (RMT).

“I was working full-time as a RMT and part-time with Jack until the lockdown. When the lockdown hit, I was out of work, and I was fortunate that Jack offered me a full-time position. Since the restrictions have been lifted, I only went back to a part-time RMT and stayed full-time with Jack because I have loved working with the horses.”

Because of her love for the horses, she really enjoys bringing family and friends to the barn for visits with the horses.

“I love bringing friends and family to the farm. I find it so cool to see them meet and interact with the horses. It really makes me appreciate that I get to wake up every day and spend time with them.”

Throughout the years working in the industry, she has two special moments that she won’t ever forget. The first is looking after Modern Xhibit when he set the track record at Clinton Raceway in 1:53.1 and the second is winning her first ever race as an owner with Keystone Taz.

“Keystone Taz definitely has me wrapped around his hooves. I own him, and he is so spoiled! He never goes a day without getting treats from me!”