Before the sun thinks of rising in the morning, Devin Rae is in the barn. Before heading to his full-time job with his family’s hydro excavation business, there are horses to feed, train, and just an hour to get as many finished for the day as possible. Those still waiting will get their turn when the workday ends.

It is a routine built around family, teamwork, and a love of horses; the kind of commitment Kawartha Downs will celebrate this Saturday at its season finale.

Customer and National Caretaker Appreciation Day brings fans and horsepeople together at the Fraserville oval, with 10 races and a chance to recognize the people who make racing possible.

For Devin, that connection began early in life.

“My dad, Brad, introduced me to the horses at 10 years old. I was just helping him around the barn and really liked it.”

As his parents’ company demanded more time, the family stepped away from racing. Eventually, the horses brought them back. Now, weekends mean heading to the races with his parents or trainer Murray Brethour.

Making it happen around full-time work requires coordination.

“We’re in the barn at 5:30 a.m. every day and we try to get as many horses trained before 6:30 when we start getting ready to leave for work,” said the 24-year-old aspiring trainer. “If we can’t get everyone done, we come back after work and finish up in the evening. It’s a team effort to make it work.”

The horses may fit around another career, but they occupy a place in the family’s life.

“The horses are a part-time thing, but as we speak, I’m looking at a barn with no empty stalls,” said the Woodville resident with a cheeky and knowing laugh.

Working alongside his parents, both in the business and with the horses, is something he enjoys. Racing also gives him ambitions of his own: earning his trainer’s license and perhaps eventually becoming a driver.

“I do this for the love of the horses and the game.”

His greatest satisfaction comes from watching young horses succeed, particularly homebreds he has known since they were foals. Whether they race for his family or someone else, seeing them do well remains a source of pride.

That attachment is what racing manager Lindsay Bax hopes Saturday’s celebration will recognize.

“Our caretakers are the heartbeat of the industry, and their love and commitment to these horses is second to none,” said Bax.

Winning caretakers will receive a recognition courtesy of the Central Ontario Standardbred Association. Customers will also enjoy an assortment of draw prizes following each race, recognizing their support throughout the season, as well as free cake while supplies last.

“We definitely have the best fans in racing week in and week out, so it is always a great night when we can show our appreciation,” said Bax.

For fans, Saturday offers one last evening to cheer at Kawartha Downs this season. For caretakers like Devin, every horse stepping onto the track carries hours of care, family effort, and the hope of another rewarding performance.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m., with the first race scheduled for 6 p.m. For Saturday's entries, click the following link: Saturday Entries - Kawartha Downs.

(Kawartha Downs)