Another successful season of harness racing has wrapped up at Rideau Carleton Raceway (RCR) located at Rideau Carleton Casino, Future Hard Rock Ottawa, and what a season it was! 

"Coming out of the COVID-19 lockdown in January, there was much uncertainty at the beginning of our 2022 season; however, through the dedication of our ownership, horsepeople and race team, our 60th season delivered well above our expectations," said Peter Andrusek, Rideau Carleton Raceway Racing Manager. "From compelling racing, record daily wagering to the significant investments made in our track lighting, TV production, and our infield, I believe that while the industry continues to face many challenges, Rideau Carleton Raceway is managing itself in a relevant manner ensuring horse racing maintains a viable component of the future Hard Rock and within our community." 

The Rideau Carleton Raceway officially opened on Sept. 1, 1962, making this its 60th year of operation. Earlier this year, the raceway celebrated the milestone with a fireworks display and a special invitation-only event inside the casino with more than 200 guests gathering to share stories and pay tribute to those who contributed to the success of the raceway over the years. 

Rideau Carleton Casino, Future Hard Rock General Manager Helen MacMillan commented on the thrilling season of harness racing as well as the 60th celebrations: “There’s no better way to celebrate 60 years of Rideau Carleton Raceway than to host some of the best harness racing this raceway has ever seen. We had tremendous turnouts all season long from our fantastic customers and we were so happy to bring everyone together to celebrate six decades of racing. This was an extremely special year and I’m already looking forward to the next season.” 

Memorable highlights from the harness racing season: 

• The racing season kicked off on Feb. 13 as the City of Ottawa came out of lockdown, and wrapped up on Dec. 18. Races took place every Thursday and Sunday. 
• On May 12, Sauble Delightful equalled the 1:52 track record for aged pacing mares with Guy Gagnon at the reins. (The record is co-held by Lit De Rose).
• Gagnon is a Quebec native but considers Rideau his home track. He has been quite successful on the Ottawa oval over the years and was the raceway’s top driver this season. Currently, Gagnon has the highest driving percentage in all of North America (for 500 +starts) with a .444 UDRS.
• James MacDonald of Guelph, Ont. won all $100,000+ Ontario Sires Stakes (OSS) races at the track this season on his way to being named OSS’s Lampman Cup winner.
• Wagering increased 25 per cent this season and averaged out at about $26,000 per race. This substantial increase is allowing customers at Rideau Carleton Casino to bet into attractive pools each night. 

Regular racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway will return on March 19, 2023. Click here to view the complete 2023 racing schedule.

(With files from Rideau Carleton Raceway)