If you are to ask anyone associated with the North American standardbred racing industry to list some of the continent's best harness racing experiences, the Little Brown Jug and the Gold Cup & Saucer will definitely receive some love

. Although he has admitted he is biased, driver Anthony MacDonald, a veteran of both events, can't get enough of that 'Down Home' atmosphere.

When asked by Dave Briggs for an article in The Guelph Mercury what he would rather win, the 'Jug' or the 'Gold Cup,' the pilot, who has a mount in Saturday's $60,000 final of the Gold Cup, let his Maritime pride shine through.

“I’m partial because I’m from here, but I prefer it to the Jug,” MacDonald told Briggs. “The atmosphere is electric, but the town is much more tourism friendly than Delaware (Ohio). There’s great food, lots of bars and fun, people are hospitable. The whole town sells itself well to the people who come from all over.”

MacDonald, who will be steering Fire On The Water from the coveted rail spot in the Gold Cup, was also quoted as saying, “Everyone loves a good party, everyone loves a good race. You get both here. Mix in the food, patronage, atmosphere and golf and why wouldn’t you come?”

For more on the 52nd edition of the Gold Cup & Saucer, including video replays of Trial 1, 2 and 3, click here.

(With files from The Guelph Mercury)