For the sixth consecutive year, Standardbred Canada (SC), in cooperation with racetracks, associations and industry partners across the country, will host National Caretaker Appreciation Day events from Aug. 29 – Sept. 14, 2023.

This initiative was launched to recognize and reward caretakers in the Standardbred industry across our nation. Each year, racetracks, trainers and owners at farms and training centres participate in the event.

Here are the 2023 racetrack event dates:

• Century Mile – TBC
• Clinton Raceway – Sunday, Sept. 3
• Flamboro Downs – Sunday, Sept. 3
• Fraser Downs – Thursday, Sept. 14
• Grand River Raceway – Wednesday, Sept. 6
• Hanover Raceway – Saturday, Sept. 2
• Hiawatha Horse Park – Saturday, Sept. 9
• Hippodrome 3R – Sunday, Sept. 3
• Inverness Raceway – Sunday, Sept. 3 or 10 (TBC)
• Kawartha Downs – Saturday, Sept. 9
• Leamington Raceway – Sunday, Sept. 10
• Northside Downs – Saturday, Sept. 2
• Red Shores Racetrack & Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park – Saturday, Sept. 2
• Red Shores at Summerside Raceway – Monday, Sept. 4
• Rideau Carleton Raceway – Thursday, Sept. 7
• The Track On 2 – Sunday, Sept. 3
• Truro Raceway – Sunday, Sept. 3
• Woodbine Mohawk Park – Tuesday, Aug. 29

Here are some ideas on how owners, trainers and drivers can give back to their caretakers during these dates, whether they are racing or 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 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.
• Give them a day off with pay or a bonus.

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 Jade Regina, SC's Member & Stakeholder Relations Coordinator, at [email protected].