There may be 11 harness races on the card this Saturday, Aug. 22 at Kawartha Downs, but the horses won’t be the only ones racing for the finish line.
Some of the youngest fans at the track will get their chance in the spotlight as Kids Night, sponsored by Nexicom, returns with Power Wheels races, face painting, balloon art, games and plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the participants.
“Kids Night is always a fun and event-packed night on the calendar,” said Lindsay Seeley, events manager at Kawartha Downs. “We obviously have the horse races, but also Power Wheels races between the races, face painting, balloon art and more for families to enjoy together.”
The Power Wheels races have become a highlight of the family-themed evening, with registered youngsters taking to the track for a series of heats before advancing to a final. The pint-sized racing action will also support Five Counties Children’s Centre.
But for Kawartha Downs, the night is about more than keeping kids entertained. It is also an opportunity to introduce young fans to the horses and people behind the sport.
“Standardbred horsepeople are fortunate to enjoy their horses every day, so on Kids Night we get to show kids and families what our community is all about,” said Lindsay Bax, racing manager at Kawartha Downs. “Kids Night is just one of the many days where our industry brings the horses up close and personal and provide a new experience for kids with their family. It’s always our goal to help a kid fall in love with the horses and the sport we love.”
Helping make that connection will be the Ontario Racing Kids’ Corner, where kids can learn about horses, horse racing and careers within the industry, take home an activity book or participate in other interactive experiences.
There will also be plenty to do between races. Kids can have their faces painted, watch balloon artists at work or get creative at colouring stations sponsored by Crayola. Prize draws specifically for children will take place throughout the night.
All children’s activities are being offered free of charge thanks to Nexicom, which has sponsored this year’s event.
The adults haven’t been forgotten either. The evening will include Kawartha Downs’ popular Second Chance Draw prizes, including the nightly $200 in gift cards grand prize, while a 50/50 draw will support the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society, which helps retired racehorses transition into new homes and careers after their time on the track is complete.
With Power Wheels lining up alongside the horses, Saturday’s event offers two very different types of racing and an opportunity for families to experience a night at the track together.
The first of 11 live harness races is scheduled for 6 p.m., with gates opening at 4:30 p.m. Admission and parking are free, along with all Kids Night activities.
To view Saturday's harness racing entries, click the following link: Saturday Entries - Kawartha Downs.
(Kawartha Downs)