Grand River Raceway will host its second annual breast cancer fundraiser, Harness the Hope Night, this Friday, Aug. 18.
Harness the Hope is a non-profit organization that organizes events and initiatives to benefit causes that enable breast cancer research, awareness and support services for cancer warriors and survivors. The organization provides direct support to young women faced with a cancer diagnosis and provide much-needed awareness, research, earlier detection and improved treatments for those directly affected by or who may face breast cancer in their lifetime. Its events can be found at various harness racetracks in Ontario and even across Canada throughout each year.
Grand River Raceway is planning to “paint the track pink” (figuratively speaking) by having guests wear pink (they can purchase pink swag from the Harness the Hope booth), buy a pink cocktail/mocktail (portion of the proceeds are going to Harness the Hope) or peach and cherry pie (with proceeds going to Harness the Hope), enjoy food trucks (Endless Inspirations and The FunnelCloud), and more. Harness the Hope will be hosting a best-dressed competition to honour the guest, horse and groom with the best pink outfit.
“Come out to support cancer survivors, those who are currently in their cancer journey and/or those who have lost someone to this disease,” said Louise Frost, Marketing Coordinator at Grand River Raceway. “Sadly, we’ve all been touched in some way by cancer, regardless of the type. Harness the Hope is about forming a community around people fighting breast cancer and raising them up, so they are stronger and fully supported to take on the challenges ahead of them.”
The Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS) is proud to match donations towards Harness the Hope up to $12,500. GRAS continues to support innovation, education, economic growth and community enabling agriculture and the environment to thrive. Harness the Hope helps the communities it serves by ensuring those with breast cancer have the resources they need to thrive. Hosting events like Harness the Hope Night allows more funding to support resources for those facing big challenges in their personal life, their family and in their surrounding community.
In December 2022, Katie Giddy, VP, Operations at Grand River Raceway, GRAS and The GrandWay Events Centre, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her journey has been one of strength and grace. The team is rallying behind her this Harness the Hope night to show support along with all her friends and family who will be in attendance on Friday.
Races begin at 6.30 p.m., doors open at 5:30 p/m. Grand River Raceway has special guests: Tammy and Char from Studio Boutique, Lauren Roy singing the National Anthem, and of course, the Harness the Hope team, which will be ready to ‘out pink’ everyone! Come dressed to impress in your pink and support a great cause while watching the races!
To view Friday's harness racing entries, click the following link: Friday Entries - Grand River Raceway.
(Grand River Raceway)