The SBOA is pleased to announce that the very successful New Owner’s Mentoring program is continuing again for 2010

. This program provides the opportunity for a group of nine individuals to participate in acquiring a yearling at the yearling sales this fall. Dan Clark has agreed to mentor this year’s group and Mike Keeling will assume the training responsibilities.

"I was actually a little surprised when I got the call, I don't keep a very high profile," stated Keeling. "I feel it is an honour and I believe it is a great program. I think from the outside looking in our industry would be very intimidating for casual fans that may want to get involved, this program creates an inlet for an easier introduction into the ownership side of things.

"I am really looking forward to meeting my people and hopefully have a small part in creating lifelong fans and participants in horse racing."

Dan Clark has been teaching high school for 36 years and is currently the Head of Boys Physical Education at Sir Allan MacNab Secondary School in Hamilton. He has been attending harness racing since his high school days and has been involved in several partnerships with horse ownership over the past 20 years.

These nine new owners will join the members of the 2009 groups who have enjoyed success with their racehorses, M G Home Run ($21,084) trained by Casie Coleman and Grin For Money ($136,452) trained by John Kopas.

The SBOA will also be presenting an information session about the New Owners Program at this weekend’s Canada Outdoor Equine Expo.

(SBOA)