As 2026 National Caretaker Appreciation Day celebrations continue across the country, Standardbred Canada, racetracks, associations and industry partners are recognizing the hard work and dedication of the people who spend countless hours caring for Standardbred horses and making race nights possible.
Celebrations have already been held at racetracks across the country, with caretakers recognized through meals, gifts, prizes and other special events.
At Dresden Raceway on Aug. 3, caretakers received packages that included gas cards, a new halter, a Dresden shirt, a fly blanket and a bag. They were also treated to pulled pork, chips and drinks in the barns as part of the celebration.
At Hippodrome 3R on Sept. 6, the Club Jockey du Québec presented gifts in the winner’s circle, while caretakers were recognized by name during the post parade for each race and treated to a meal at the track restaurant.
Red Shores celebrated NCAD at Charlottetown Driving Park on Sept. 8, after the original Sept. 5 celebration was rescheduled. Grooms received a custom hat and dining voucher as part of the celebration.
At Grand River Raceway on Sept. 9, caretakers were treated to an evening of recognition, with prizes, gift cards and dinner provided in their honour. Wilson Tack donated gift buckets that were drawn, one per race, while COSA provided $100 gift cards for the winning grooms of each of the 10 races on the card. Grand River Raceway also funded dinner for the grooms onsite that evening.
NCAD celebrations have also been held at Clinton Raceway on Aug. 16, Georgian Downs on Aug. 25, Century Downs Racetrack and Casino on Aug. 28, and Hanover Raceway and The Track On 2 on Sept. 12. The Red Shores Summerside Raceway celebration, originally scheduled for Sept. 7, has been rescheduled for next week.
With more celebrations still to come, participating racetracks across Ontario will have an opportunity to recognize the caretakers who play an important role in their local racing communities.
Upcoming celebrations include:
- Leamington Raceway - Sept. 13
- Hiawatha Horse Park - Sept. 19
- Woodbine Mohawk Park - Sept. 24
- Kawartha Downs - Oct. 3
- The Raceway at Western Fair District - Nov. 6
While each racetrack has put its own spin on the festivities, the message has remained the same: thank you.
Caretakers are the ones who arrive before the sun comes up, take on the lion’s share of the barn work and ensure horses are ready to race in the evening. NCAD provides an opportunity for the industry to recognize their dedication and the important role they play in racing.
The celebrations are supported by participating racetracks, racing associations and industry partners across Canada, including the Central Ontario Standardbred Association, Ontario Harness Horse Association, Alberta Standardbred Horse Association, Association Trot et Amble du Québec, Circuit Régional des Courses de Chevaux du Québec, Prince Edward Island Standardbred Horse Owners Association and Prince County Horsemen’s Club.
The recognition extends beyond the racetrack. Owners, trainers and drivers are encouraged to find their own ways to recognize caretakers throughout the year, whether through a simple thank-you, a gift card, a win photo or a well-earned day off.
The Faces of Racing series also continues throughout the NCAD campaign, highlighting the people behind the daily care of Standardbred horses. Since its launch in 2018, the series has featured stories from 46 caretakers across the country.
The most recent Faces of Racing profile featured Clinton Raceway caretaker James Johnston, who works alongside the horses he cares for at the Clinton oval.
As NCAD celebrations continue, Standardbred Canada invites everyone to join in by sharing photos, memories and stories recognizing the caretakers in their racing communities on social media using #NCAD2026.
For more information about National Caretaker Appreciation Day, contact Standardbred Canada's Industry Development department.
(Standardbred Canada Press Release)