The next generation of Canadian harness racing took centre stage at Clinton Raceway on Saturday, July 25, as 16 young drivers came together for the inaugural Junior National Driving Championship. A behind-the-scenes look at that event has been produced and publicly unveiled.

Held as part of the 2026 National Driving Championship weekend, the Junior National Driving Championship featured four competitors from the Maritime Minis Racing Association and 12 from the Ontario Young Guns Racing Association. 

The morning included a special post parade, two qualifying heats, a Consolation Final, the Championship Final and the inaugural awards presentation.

Ontario's Adrianna Mongrain and Hidden Delilah made history by capturing the Championship Final, making Mongrain the first ever Junior National Driving Champion. Lucas Heffernan-Bailey (P.E.I.) and Celly were second and Lucas House (Ontario) and Cinnamon were third. Jate Lilley (Ontario) and White Lightning won the Consolation Final with White Lightning. For the complete results and story from the inaugural Junior National Driving Championship, click here.

Adrianna Mongrain (middle) pulls away from Lucas Heffernan-Bailey (left) and Lucas House (right) in the final of the 2026 Junior National Driving Championship at Clinton Raceway on Saturday, July 25. 

The event provided a national stage for the young competitors to showcase their horsemanship and sportsmanship while competing for the title.

Fans can relive the inaugural championship through a special recap produced by Dead Heat Films, capturing the action and memorable moments from the morning.

(Standardbred Canada Press Release)