Standardbred Canada (SC) is pleased to announce that the 35th annual O’Brien Awards will be returning to the home of Joe O’Brien in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024.  

The O’Brien Awards Black Tie Gala is Canadian harness racing’s most prestigious event. After two years of presenting online virtual galas, then hosting live in 2023 in Mississauga, Ont., the Canadian harness racing industry is heading east to Prince Edward Island.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be able to bring the O’Brien Awards back to P.E.I. in 2024 and look forward to working with our partners there to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the O’Brien Awards,” said Dan Gall, President and CEO of Standardbred Canada.

The inaugural edition of the O'Brien Awards was presented in 1989. The awards were named after the late Joe O'Brien as a permanent testimony to the unmatched skills of this legendary horseman. "Little Joe" was born in Alberton, P.E.I., on June 25, 1917, and was regarded as one of the premier all-around horsemen in the sport.

In 2014, the 25th edition of the O’Brien Awards was successfully held in Prince Edward Island – the same year the province celebrated 150 years as the birthplace of Confederation.

Returning 10 years later, the 35th Anniversary celebration on the Island will include the O’Briens as well as national meetings, with special events and surprises being planned.

The awards will be held on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at the Delta Hotels Prince Edward. Details regarding tickets and programs will be announced later on the Standardbred Canada website.  For further information, please contact SC’s Member and Stakeholder Relations Department at 905-858-3060 x 207.