Standardbred breeders Beth and Tom Rankin are inviting the community to experience the magic and beauty of horses at their breeding farm’s annual Open House in St. Catharines, Ont., on Saturday, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Now in its third year, the event proudly supports two youth-focused contests organized by the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance (BGRA) — the Youth Literary Derby and the Youth Art Derby, which are sponsored by the Rankins. The Literary Derby is open to students in Grades 3-8, while the Art Derby welcomes participants from Grades 3-12. Aspiring young artists and writers looking for inspiration will find plenty of it among the mares and foals at the Rankins' farm! Full contest details and rules are available at bgracingalliance.ca.

Guests will have the opportunity to meet the Rankins’ 10 broodmares and their new foals, watch them play in the paddocks and capture photos of these future racehorses in their earliest days. Over the past two years, more than 500 visitors have enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at Standardbred breeding.

“We love sharing our passion for horses with young people,” said Tom Rankin. “Seeing their faces light up when they meet a foal for the first time is really special. Many of them have never been this close to a horse before and it’s a great opportunity to introduce them to these amazing animals and the sport of harness racing. 

"We were thrilled with last year’s turnout despite the inclement weather. Many visitors told us they often drive past the farm and wondered about the horses, so this event gave them a chance to learn more about the breed.”

Adding to the fun, the Rankins will also be holding a "Name the Foal" contest. Anyone who suggests a name that the Rankins choose for one of their foals will receive a $100 cash prize.

The Rankins have been breeding Standardbreds since 1990, producing more than 300 foals over the past 35 years at their St. Paul St. West farm. Families and horse lovers are invited to visit the farm, located at 1490 St. Paul St. West in St. Catharines, Ont., on Saturday, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those planning to attend are asked to register by May 28 by calling Rankin Construction at 905-684-1111 during business hours (Monday to Friday).

For more information about the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance contests, visit bgracingalliance.ca.

(Bill Galvin Racing Alliance)