Excitement filled the air on Friday, Sept. 5 at Grand River Raceway as one lucky Standardbred Canada Junior Member made the memorable walk into the winner’s circle — this time not just as a fan, but as a new racehorse owner.

The Win a Share of a Racehorse contest brought nine Junior Members together for an experience they won’t forget. Each finalist was paired with a driver in the second race of the evening after randomly selecting a number from one through nine. When the starting gate released the field, all eyes were on the track. At the wire, it was Eurobank Hanover and driver Samuel Fillion who crossed first, securing the victory for nine-year-old Junior Member Phoenix Henriques.

The grand prize includes a $2,000 ownership share in Landmark 19 Stable, giving the winning Junior Member a unique opportunity to experience the sport from the inside. Along with shared ownership of a Standardbred yearling, the prize provides stable visits, race day privileges and regular updates on their horse’s progress.

“I felt excited, and happy, and a little nervous," said Henriques. "I look forward to racing and becoming a driver. We’re going to celebrate on my drive home, back to Stoney Creek, with an ice cream.” 

The contest is just the start of what’s ahead for Junior Members. On Saturday, Sept. 13, members will take part in a guided tour of Winbak Farm of Canada, learning firsthand about the breeding foundation of the sport and meeting the stars of tomorrow. On Sunday, Sept. 28, they’ll visit First Line Training Centre, where racehorses hone their skills before stepping onto the track. These hands-on experiences, combined with the contest, offer Junior Members a true inside look at the sport — from yearlings to the track, and ultimately, the winner’s circle.

Standardbred Canada extends its thanks to all Junior Members who signed up at the Canadian National Exhibition and participated in this year’s contest. Each one plays a crucial role in the future of harness racing, and the organization looks forward to helping them learn, grow and remain connected to the industry.

To learn more about Standardbred Canada’s Junior Membership, visit this link.

(Standardbred Canada Press Release; photo left to right: Nelson, Phoenix, Jenn and Xavier Henriques)