In spite of heavy rain early in the day, the VIP Day hosted by the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance (BGRA) at Clinton Raceway on Sunday, Aug. 23 was well attended. 

The Bill Galvin Racing Alliance reported that more than 70 people attended the event, with many experiencing horse racing for the first time. Hosted in Clinton’s trackside special-event tent, the group enjoyed an afternoon of great food, exciting horse racing and industry connection. 

While weather conditions unfortunately forced the cancellation of the scheduled double-seated jog cart and starting gate rides, attendees were able to tour the paddock area and meet the horses. 

Additionally, to help with the learning curve in handicapping races, the VIPs and their guests received betting vouchers sponsored by the Central Ontario Standardbred Association (COSA).

Rick Rier emceed the event and provided an industry overview to attendees while Natasha Day and Lorne House spoke with attendees about driving and training Standardbred horses.

“I was pleasantly surprised that so many eager people braved the rain and even thunder and lightning at times, to get to the track,” said BGRA director Karen Hauver. “Up until the first race, it looked like we would all be inside the tent for the day. But the rain let up and we were able to watch the races outside.”

The VIPs matched with the top five finishers in the eighth race received a payout. The day's major winner was Parsa Balari, who was partnered with the winning horse, Playatyourownrisk, driven by Austin Sorrie and trained by Gary Hodgson.

Many guests secured their invitations by entering a ballot following a Drive To Win VR (Virtual Reality) Harness Driving Experience, which is sponsored by the Central Ontario Standardbred Association and can be found at racetracks, fairs and special events throughout the province.

The BGRA extends its sincere appreciation to Clinton Raceway and the many volunteers who assisted with the event. 

(With files from Bill Galvin Racing Alliance)