The weather was perfect and the crowd was large for Hanover Raceway's first night of live harness racing in 2014 on Saturday.

The season start was delayed due to construction on a large renovation project at Hanover.

The track's General Manager Gord Dougan said the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. is almost doubling its gaming space, adding over 60 machines including automated blackjack and roulette tables, which they hope to open June 20.

On top of that, trades workers finally vacated the live grandstand space Friday after constructing a new 1,500 square foot restaurant and new washrooms. At the same time, the raceway relocated its betting line, brought in a new tote company under the Ontario Alliance Racetrack program, and added new offices to accommodate racing.

Dougan said it was very difficult getting ready for opening day with less than 24 hours to turn around a construction site, but other than a few minor issues, the night went smoothly.

Hanover will feature 16 nights of live racing, which is down from 32 nights under the Slots At Racetrack program two years ago. Dougan said that means all the excitement of the racing season is jammed into a shorter time frame for fans.

Next week is Molson Men's night in honour of Father's Day. Fathers in attendance can enter a draw to win up to $2,000 in prizes courtesy of Molson, including a new BBQ and mini-fridge. Post time next Saturday night is 7:15 p.m. and Hanover will also show the final of the North America Cup from Mohawk Racetrack during its live racing program.

To view Saturday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Saturday Results - Hanover Raceway.

(With files from Hanover Raceway)