Standardbred Canada (SC) is excited to introduce its Junior Membership program at the largest agricultural fair in Canada, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), which will run from Aug. 15 to Sept. 1 in Toronto, Ont. 

At the heart of Standardbred Canada’s CNE exhibit is a strong focus on attracting children from outside the industry to help sustain and grow the industry. 

The SC site offers children and parents the opportunity to explore potential futures within the Standardbred horse world, from roles such as drivers, caretakers, trainers, breeders or owners, to becoming lifelong fans.

Children can select one of three custom-made driver suits sponsored by Canada’s leading reinsmen: James MacDonald, Doug McNair and Louis-Philippe Roy. They will then have the opportunity to participate in a miniature harness race on a miniature track, using wooden sulkies.

The team at Standardbred Canada has developed a new virtual reality simulator designed for both children and parents. This interactive ride will simulate the rush of driving a racehorse at full speed in 3D. SC would like to thank the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance for their mentorship and Debi O’Brien Moran for the race bike. A large-screen TV will display the simulator's view to attract users.

The fun continues! As a follow-up, Junior Members (new sign-ups and current members) will receive gift bags filled with racing-themed items and invitations to three exclusive experiences listed below.

• A guided tour of Winbak Farms Ontario on Saturday, Sept. 13.
• A visit to a First Line Training Centre on Saturday, Sept. 28.
• A day at Grand River Raceway on Friday, Sept. 5 to experience live harness racing up close.

Are these three rare and informative trips of interest to you, but you will be unable to attend the CNE in person? No worries! You can enrol in SC's Junior Member by visiting the Member Forms page or by contacting the Membership Department.

There will also be a trophy and TROT Magazine display showcasing championship moments from SC’s national events. Information tables will be staffed by team members ready to offer guidance, answer questions and provide brochures about the Junior Membership program.

Stop by The Winner's Circle in the Agricultural Building (Better Living Centre) between Aug. 15 and Sept. 1 to visit Standardbred Canada! 

(Standardbred Canada)