It is no secret that Meridian Farms is a staunch supporter of racing in the east coast of Canada. The breeding farm sponsors many stakes events at multiple tracks. Now, horseman Scott Forward of Goulds, Newfoundland has publicly said 'thank-you' to Bill Andrew and the farm

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"One of our biggest and most memorable days each year (at the St. Johns Racing and Entertainment Centre) is our Canadian Drivers Showcase, which unfortunately we couldn't get off the ground this season," Forward wrote in a letter sent to some industry trades, "but with the help from Bill Andrew and Meridian Farms it looks like we will have an even bigger day than we expected."

Forward wrote that without government support, the track relies solely on its simulcast revenue. He stated that Andrew and Meridian Farms "have been our biggest supporters for the last four years and (are) the only breeding establishment in Canada that has offered to help." Besides offering Andrew and Meridian Farms much praise, Forward wanted to take the opportunity to make the public aware of the track's Meridian Farms Day, which will be taking place this Sunday (September 25).

Forward said that without government support for racing in the province, it is trying at times to get the show up and running, even though organizers at the raceway are well known for putting everything they have got into the track. "We here in Newfoundland race for the pure love of the sport. When you look at our average purse of $500, it's plain to see we enjoy our racing, but, don't get me wrong, we would love to race for more money."

Well, courtesy of Andrew and Meridian Farms, the good folks at St. Johns Racing and Entertainment Centre will be racing for some attractive coin on Sunday. "We have two races for non-winners of $70PS in 2011, both going for a purse of $1,500. One race for 'Meridian aged' going for a purse of $2,200. One (race) will be the Meridian Farms King of the Rock Pace for Meridian-bred or sired two and three-year-olds going for a purse of $2,000." Forward also stated that there will be a $1,700 Meridian Farms Open Mares race and an $1,800 Meridian Farms Open Colts and Geldings race.

Even though Canadian Drivers Showcase was not a 'go' this year, there will still be a Meridian Farms Amateur Pace, which will see a lot of future drivers in action.