The Raceway at Western Fair District’s Horse Ownership Trade Show, presented in co-operation with Standardbred Canada, was hosted on Friday night and Raceway representatives were very pleased with both industry participation and attendance.

“For a first time effort for this type of event, I think it went very well,” said Greg Blanchard, General Manager for The Raceway. “There was a steady flow of people and a lot of truly ‘engaged’ racing fans learning about racehorse ownership.

“The Stable and Landmark Racing Stable seemed to have many people interested in the Fractional Ownership models which is a good sign for the future of the industry.”

Anthony MacDonald from The Stable talks to trade show guests

The I Love Canadian Harness Racing Fan Club’s Owner For A Night saw eight lucky Trade Show attendees matched with horses racing in the eighth race. The winners were taken to the paddock for a tour and the chance to meet their horse, trainer, and groom. All eight of the 'Honourary Owners' joined in the winner’s circle presentation for the race winner.

Own A Horse Race Presentation with winner Spilling The Beans and driver Nick Steward

Honourary owner Michael Trudeau meets his horse, Jinglewriter

Honourary owner Peter Reed meets Mach Shark

The Ontario Harness Horse Association’s Wanna Drive program was a big hit with over 30 people enjoying rides in the double-seated jog carts during the night.

“I think this is a good model that could also work at other tracks and venues,” said Blanchard. “These types of events generate awareness and you never know when you might hit a homerun with generating prospects for future owners.”

The Raceway and Standardbred Canada would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to the following for taking part in the Trade Show:

• The Stable

• Landmark Racing Stable

• Trainers Mark Beaven, Natasha House, Mark Horner, Heather Toll

• Veterinarian Dr. Alison Moore

• Central Ontario Standardbred Association

• Ontario Harness Horse Association

• Ontario Racing

• Standardbred Breeders of Ontario Association

• Tomiko Training Centre

Tea Habjan and Mike Jobb from Tomiko Training Centre

COSA's Cathy Boughton and Stacey Newman

(Photos courtesy SC and WFD)