Horse Racing New Brunswick (HRNB) has announced the start of the live racing season in New Brunswick. Kicking things off on Canada Day in Fredericton is the first race card of the season that includes the popular, historical Walter Dale Memorial, sponsored this year by Moosehead Breweries.

The history of Walter Dale goes back to 1937 when the legendary horse set a record that many tried to beat for over 42 years. Every year horses and drivers attempt to break the current track record, most recently set in 2012 by McApulco at 1:54.2 and matched in 2014 by Modern Xhibit. This year the Walter Dale Memorial is set as an invitational that will focus primarily on a very competitive field of New Brunswick horses.

The day’s program will, of course, include other races of various classes. There will be a raffle, 50/50 draw, food vendors on site, the Winner’s patio will be open, and more. Most important is the excitement in the air as New Brunswick's 21-day race season gets underway.

Admission to Fredericton Raceway is free so bring the family for some fun and entertainment. Enjoy a walk by the barns to see the horses up close, cheer on the horses and drivers as they race for the finish, celebrate part of the national holiday amid the excitement of a sport that has been part of our national fabric since the 1800s.

This year Fredericton Raceway will host 10 race days, the Saint John track at Exhibition Park is also scheduled to host 10 race days, and Woodstock will have a race day during Old Home Week.

“We are focused on the harness racing sport thriving and growing in New Brunswick. To achieve that growth, providing more jobs and thrilling race days, the best road forward is a grassroots approach,” stated HRNB's new Executive Director, Roberta Nixon.

HRNB and the New Brunswick Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association have established 21 days of racing this year will make it possible to expand that next year.

(With files from Horse Racing New Brunswick)