After many years of dedicated service, where he evolved into one of the most respected track men in the business, track superintendent Roy Chamberlain will be leaving The Raceway at Western Fair District this month.
The 49-year-old has been with Western Fair since 1997, beginning initially in the role of beef cattle supervisor in 1997 before making his way to The Raceway team in 2007. He annually assisted Greg Coon’s team during Little Brown Jug week at the Delaware County Fair.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Western Fair and working with a great bunch of horsepeople and fellow horsepeople,” said Chamberlain. “I’m proud of the work we have done here. While I’m excited about beginning a new chapter, I will certainly miss the job and the people.”
Chamberlain, his wife Cheron (longtime agriculture manager at the Western Fair District) and daughter Layton will be relocating to Alberta to pursue new opportunities.
Doug Lilley, who has worked under Chamberlain for the past eight years as assistant track superintendent, will be taking on a new role as Western Fair’s new track superintendent effective May 7.
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“I have been fortunate to work with Roy over the years and I think we’ve grown a lot together as a team. We will definitely miss his knowledge and dedication but I’m looking forward to this opportunity and enjoy being part of a team that is very committed to racing.”
Lilley’s first month in the new role couldn’t come at a busier time as Western Fair is gearing up for what is going to be a very full schedule during final month of racing at the London oval.
A total of 16 race programs are slated in May, including a special matinee program on Mother’s Day with first post at 1:15 p.m.
One of the biggest days in Canadian harness racing this season will be the inaugural edition of the Camluck Classic (previously Molson Pace) slated on closing night, Saturday, May 26, with first post at 6:55 p.m.
The undercard will be strong, once again featuring Ontario Sires Stakes Gold divisions for three-year-old filly pacers along with a quartet of City of London Series finals. There will be scratch ‘n win prizes, giveaways, Molson ‘Party On The Patio,’ the new VIP Infield Experience and much more happening that night on track.
The wagering menu will also be bolstered with the addition of a third Super Hi-5 wager that night. There will be a trio of guaranteed pool wagers offered up as well including the early Pick-3 ($5,000), early Pick-4 ($10,000) and late Pick-4 ($15,000). All of these wagers come with a low 15 per cent takeout rate.
On Friday, May 11, Western Fair will also host its annual Wall of Fame Night. This year’s inductee is fan favourite Bridge Street. The son of Armbro Emerson compiled 58 wins during his 361-race career that spanned 11 years.
The $10,000 yearling purchase amassed more than $676,000 for his connections that included Tom Brodhurst, George and Shirley Griffin, and Scott and Kim McNiven – who also trained and managed the pacer.
This coming Saturday, The Raceway will offer full-card simulcast of this year’s edition of the Kentucky Derby. Plenty of giveaways along with food and beverage offerings will be available.
For more information on everything happening at The Raceway during the month of May, visit westernfairdistrict.com.
(The Raceway at Western Fair District)