Leamington Closer A Big Success

Published: October 14, 2013 12:06 pm EDT

A huge crowd, and a five-win performance by driver Mark Pezzarello, highlighted the last card of the 2013 racing meet at Leamington Raceway on Sunday afternoon.

Supportive horsepeople from across the region competed on the fourth and final program of the 2013 Lakeshore Horse Racing Association meet, at the Leamington Fairgrounds. The total handle for the 11 race card was $41,102, all wagered live on-track.

Pezzarello's performance was especially impressive considering he only drove in eight of the 11 races and guided just one favourite the entire day. His wins came with Lady Is A Pirate ($31.10), Rock N Express ($6.40), Casimir Lightning ($15.20), Miami Mafia ($4.40) and Sealcrest Penny ($8.20)

Organizers were all smiles as fans supported the program in enormous numbers, participating in activities and betting on the races.

The Family Day program included an appearance and winning drive by Jody Jamieson as well as plenty of entertainment for families. The Off Kilter Equine demonstration wowed the crowds, while a petting zoo and meet and greet with the horses kept the kids busy throughout the day. Hall of Famers Dave Wall and Bob McIntosh, Doug McIntosh and Jamieson signed autographs and met with the fans.

“It was important for me to come and be here,” said Jamieson. “The support this area has for harness racing is huge, and whatever small role I can play, I’m very happy to take part and be involved. Whether I’m racing in Pocono the night before, or wherever I am, I know how important it is to come out and try to be a small part.”

For Wall, who met with local racing fans throughout the program, feelings were similar.

“It’s great to see so much support from both the horsepeople and the fans,” said Wall. “They’re all really showing that racing in this region is important and should thrive. There has always been great support for harness racing here and it needs to continue.”

The volunteer spirit, community and local support was clear throughout the program, with entertainment, giveaways and contests all day, and for the entire four-program Leamington meet.

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