The Prince Edward Island Harness Racing Industry Association (PEIHRIA) and the P.E.I. Matinee Racetrack Development Program have named Christopher Neill the 2026 recipient of the program's bursary.
The $1,000 P.E.I. Matinee Racetrack Development Program Bursary is sponsored by Bill and Denise Andrew of Meridian Farms and will help support Neill’s post-secondary education expenses. The bursary recognizes individuals who have participated in the P.E.I. Matinee Racetrack Development Program and are pursuing studies at a post-secondary institution.
Neill is the son of Ryan Neill and Aprile Lanpher Neill. He grew up around the Charlottetown Driving Park, where his father, Ryan, and grandfather, Darrell, maintain a small stable of horses. After attending matinee events with his family throughout his childhood, he became more involved with Standardbreds in high school.
Neill recorded his first Matinee Circuit drive aboard Elm Grove Nanci on July 25, 2025, at Alberton Raceway. He has since driven in a division of the Matinee Finals in each of the past two seasons. In September 2026, Neill earned a memorable victory with Buddys N Virgins in the Kilted Pace at Pinette Raceway, stopping the clock in 1:56.4.
Neill is currently enrolled in the Sustainable Design Engineering program at the University of Prince Edward Island.
PEIHRIA and the P.E.I. Matinee Racetrack Development Program congratulate Christopher Neill and thank all matinee program participants who submitted applications for the bursary.
(With files from PEIHRIA)