The Bill Galvin Racing Alliance hosted a successful VIP day on Sunday, Aug. 17 at Clinton Raceway where potential new fans and future supporters were introduced to harness racing. 

The event brought together 75 first-time guests for an exclusive VIP day featuring behind-the-scenes experiences of the sport, complete with paddock tours, rides in the starting gate car, rides in double seated jog carts and a meet and greet with some of the drivers. Hosted in Clinton’s special event trackside tent, the group enjoyed an afternoon with great food, exciting harness racing and community connection, highlighting the tradition and energy that make Clinton Raceway such a beloved destination.

“We love seeing new faces on Sunday afternoons, and even more so when those faces become familiar," said Jessica Carnochan, Marketing Manager, Clinton Raceway. "What the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance accomplished — bringing so many new visitors together — was no small task. We hope they enjoyed their day with us and will return often. Growing our fan base is important, and we truly appreciate the efforts this group made to support that goal [on Sunday].” 

The Alliance extends its appreciation to Clinton Raceway, horsepeople and volunteers, and a special thank you to Rick Rier for emceeing the event, teaching the guests how to read a program and providing an overview of the industry.

“Our goal is to introduce newcomers to the sport in a meaningful and memorable way,” said Karen Hauver, director for the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance. “Sunday’s event was an important step in engaging potential new fans who can share in the excitement of harness racing. Our guests were very enthusiastic and eager to learn about the industry through the behind-the-scenes activities. We heard nothing but compliments all day!”

The big winner of the day was Kylie Smith, who was partnered with the winning horse in the BGRA contest race, Zippennrippen, and won $1,000.

Many of the guests won their invitation to the VIP Day by entering a draw following a Drive To Win VR (Virtual Reality) Harness Driving Experience at one of the many events that the BGRA attends. The Drive To Win VR is sponsored by the Central Ontario Standardbred Association and will be making stops at the following events:

• Woodstock Fall Fair - Friday, Sept. 22 - Sunday, Sept. 23
• Woodbine Mohawk Park - Saturday, Aug. 30
• Chatsworth Fair - Saturday, Sept. 13
• Ancaster Fair - Saturday, Sept. 20
• Acton Fall Fair - Sunday, Sept. 21
• Leamington Raceway - Sunday, Sept. 28
• Dorchester Agricultural Day - Wednesday, Oct. 8

For more information about the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance and upcoming initiatives, visit the bgracingalliance.ca.

(BGRA)