Standardbred Canada (SC) is pleased to provide an update from its first-ever event at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto, Ont.
The CNE, Canada's largest agricultural fair, runs from Aug. 15 to Sept. 1, and so far, thousands of attendees have visited SC's Winner's Circle exhibit, located in the Agricultural Building (Better Living Centre).
The virtual reality racebike simulator stands out as the main attraction at the site, drawing long lines of children and adults eager to try it. Feedback consistently ranks it as "the coolest thing they’ve experienced at the CNE." Quickly establishing itself as a must-try exhibit, the SC simulator offers a unique opportunity to those who would like to experience the thrill and excitement of driving a Standardbred horse on the racetrack.
Children have also loved racing each other with miniature wooden sulkies on a custom-built track while suiting up in mini driving suits sponsored by James MacDonald, Doug McNair and Louis-Philippe Roy.
The Win a Share of a Racehorse contest has become a favourite among the teenagers, especially those visiting from the city who may be learning about harness racing for the very first time. The idea of being connected to a real racehorse has sparked genuine excitement and curiosity.
In addition to site visits offered to all Junior Members, eligible Junior Members who sign up online before Sept. 1 will be entered into a draw for the Win a Share of a Racehorse contest, generously provided by Landmark Racing Stables.
Planned visits for Junior Members include:
- An afternoon at Grand River Raceway on Friday, Sept. 5 to experience live harness racing firsthand.
- A guided tour of Winbak Farm on Saturday, Sept. 13 where they’ll see mares, foals and stallions up close.
- A visit to First Line Training Centre on Saturday, Sept. 28 to watch young horses in training.
Beyond the excitement of these special events, Junior Membership is about opening doors. Through SC’s MVP Program, families receive exclusive savings on CNE admission and Ride All Day passes through Perkopolis, plus discounts on entertainment, travel, shopping and lifestyle perks all year long.
Not able to make it to the CNE in person? You can still become a Junior Member and enjoy these benefits. To enroll, visit the Member Forms page on the SC website.
With the CNE continuing through Sept. 1, there’s still plenty of time to stop by The Winner’s Circle. Standardbred Canada's exhibit is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and SC looks forward to welcoming even more families, racing fans and curious newcomers in the days ahead.
Standardbred Canada would like to thank all of the industry partners and sponsors who have made this inaugural CNE exhibit possible, including Bill Galvin Racing Alliance, Debi O’Brien Moran, Graham’s Racing Silks, Landmark Racing Stable, James MacDonald, Doug McNair and Louis-Philippe Roy.
(Standardbred Canada Press Release)