She’s was described as “a success in and out of racing.” When Christina Polifroni died last year as the result of a tragic accident while vacationing in Mexico, her passing hit the racing community here very hard. She was only 27. The same community however, is rallying to honour her
memory as a role model for young people by establishing a scholarship fund in her name.
The first event to help build the fund will be held this Sunday, January 10 at Rideau Carleton Raceway with what is being called the “Ultimate Racing Championship" - URC - Rookie versus The Champ. The purses during the 15-race tilt are 1.5 times the regular levels on that day to add to the excitement for both fans and horse people alike.
The URC pits Darrell Coville, the winningest driver in RCR history against the up and coming Maxime Audet. Both will drive in each of the 15 races on Sunday’s card. Last year, Audet was the winner of the Coville Cup driving contest at Rideau’s Night of Champions so it’s only fitting he should face the man for whom the trophy is named.
“We wanted to do this for a while,” said John Macmillan, director of the National Capital Region Harness Horse Association (NCRHHA). “We want to give the children of horse people a hand up toward their post secondary education. Christina is a perfect role model as she was a success not only in racing but at life in general.”
Fans will be able to purchase raffle tickets identifying which driver their supporting, Audet or Coville. If their name is drawn they automatically win a 20 dollar betting voucher. If their chosen driver wins, the voucher gets upped to $100 dollars. Tickets are $2.00 each or three for $5.00 and can be purchased on race night.
The event, according to Macmillan is also a way to showcase some of the region’s rising star drivers. This night, Maxime Audet will have the spotlight. “With a driving colony of over 55 men and women, it’s hard for a young driver to break in,” added Macmillan.
Trainers must note that two horses each race will be driven by the Challenge drivers, Audet and Coville. Their drives will be selected by the NCRHHA board. By entering your horse for the race card on Sunday, January 10, you are providing permission to allow your horse to be driven by either Coville or Audet.
For more information, contact the National Capital Region Harness Horse Association at 613-822-6819.
(With files from NCRHHA)