For the fifth consecutive year, Standardbred Canada (SC), in cooperation with racetracks, associations and industry partners across the country, will host National Caretaker Appreciation Day events the week of August 29 – September 4.

This initiative was launched to recognize and reward caretakers in the Standardbred industry. Last year, several racetracks across the country participated in the event, and many trainers and owners at farms and training centres also got involved in the celebration.

To date, the following racetracks have confirmed events:

• Clinton Raceway – Sunday, September 4
• Flamboro Downs – Sunday, September 4
• Grand River Raceway – Wednesday, August 31
• Hanover Raceway – Saturday, September 3
• Hippodrome 3R – Sunday, September 4
• Kawartha Downs – Saturday, September 3
• Red Shores Racetrack & Casino the at Charlottetown Driving Park – Saturday, September 3
• Red Shores at Summerside Raceway – Wednesday, August 31
• Rideau Carleton Raceway – Thursday, September 1
• Truro Raceway – Friday, September 2
• Woodbine Mohawk Park – Thursday, September 1

Here are a few ideas on how owners, trainers and drivers can say 'thank you' to their caretakers, whether they are racing, working at the farm or training centre:

• Refreshments – drop off donuts or muffins and coffee to the stable.
• Host a stable BBQ or contribute to a delivered catered lunch.
• Give them a day off with pay or a bonus.
• Give them a thank you card along with a gift card.
• Purchase a win photo for them of one of the horses they care for, the next time it wins.

Racetracks not racing during the summer will have the option of selecting a fall date for their National Caretaker Appreciation Day.

For more information, please contact Program Coordinator Hailey Saunders at [email protected].