Trot Insider has confirmed that the vigil taking place in front of Classy Lane Training Centre on Tuesday night is still on and has not been cancelled.
For those planning on attending, organizers wish to make very clear that the vigil will not be taking place inside the training centre facility. It will be on the edge of the property, and access to the training centre and its barns will not be permitted. Ken Parke, Facility Manager for Classy Lane, told Trot Insider that members of the OPP will be on site and helping patrol.
"It's not that we don't appreciate what people are trying to do, it's an outpouring and feeling that it's all people can do for us now...it's a show of support and we absolutely appreciate that," said Parke.
This quiet, respectful gathering will provide an opportunity to honour and remember the 43 horses that perished so tragically and extend support to the owners, trainers and grooms whose lives have been so terribly affected. The vigil will take place from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m in front of Classy Lane Training Centre. Parke will be available for media inquiries and questions at the Classy Lane entrance.
In consideration of the nature of this tragedy and for safety sake, there will be NO FLAME of any kind at this gathering. Please bring flashlights and/or battery-operated candles. You are also invited to bring cards, flowers, letters and/or poems if you feel so inclined.
For those without something to illuminate, 180 electronic candles have been donated by Ideal Training Centre and Alec at Giant Tiger in Acton.
This is a free, respectful gathering. Donations will NOT be requested or accepted at this peaceful vigil so please do not hand over cash to anyone claiming to be fundraising. To make a donation, please visit to the GoFundMe page set up by COSA.
Washroom facilities will not be provided so please plan accordingly. There will be no food or beverages provided or for sale.
For the safety and respect of those attending, neighbours, and vehicles driving through the area, please follow the instructions of the OPP officers that will be present and any traffic/parking attendants. Carpooling is suggested if possible.