Despite significant reformatting, the show of support was strong for the 2013 editions of Grand River Raceway’s Battle Of Waterloo and Battle Of The Belles.
The 16th annual Battle Of Waterloo is for Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing colts. A total of 130 colts have been nominated to start in the eliminations on July 29 for $12,500 (G) per division. The Consolation is valued at $20,000 and the Final will be raced for $125,000 (E).
The fifth annual Battle Of The Belles is for Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing fillies. A total of 121 fillies have been nominated to start in the eliminations on July 29 for $10,000 per division. The Consolation is valued at $15,000 and the Final will be contested for $75,000 (E).
The signature races will be showcased during the track’s annual Industry Day Celebration. This year marks the 23rd edition of the afternoon event, which takes place on Monday, August 5.
Conditions for both races were overhauled, including a single eligibility payment (versus three) and a nomination deadline of April 30. These changes were necessary for 2013, given the time restraints created by the delay of the Ontario racing calendar, post-Slots-At-Racetracks program.
A sponsorship of $75,000 from the Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS) has ensured the continuation of these popular races. (GRAS is the parent company of the Elora, Ont. track.) The sum will be split with $50,000 going to the total purse for the Battle Of Waterloo and $25,000 going to the total purse for the Battle Of The Belles.
To view lists of the Battle Of Waterloo and Battle Of The Belles nominees are available by clicking the above links.
(Grand River Raceway)