Clinton Raceway is getting set for its annual Charity Drivers Challenge on closing day, Sunday, September 29, and this year’s event will have a different twist.
The Challenge usually pits the top four drivers from the Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG) circuit against the top four reinsmen from Clinton. However, for the first time ever, the challenge date will conflict with the Grand Circuit races in Lexington, Kentucky, meaning most of WEG’s top drivers will be there competing.
Clinton management has opted to switch back to purely local challenge this year with the top eight dash-winning drivers being invited to take part.
“It is too bad we had to change the format, but on the other hand, change is sometimes a good thing,” said Racing Manager Ian Fleming. “It also showcases our local guys who have been here all season and this year’s driving colony is one of the strongest we’ve ever had here.”
Today's race card determined the top eight drivers to take part in the Challenge in a battle right down to the wire. Top drivers, based on dash winning drives, include Billy Davis Jr., Trevor Henry, Anthony MacDonald, James MacDonald, Bob McClure, Bruce Richardson, Ryan Holliday, and J Harris, who secured the final spot over Lorne House with one win on the card.
The top two drivers were involved in a spill in Sunday's second race, but Davis Jr. said he is hoping to return to the sulky on Monday after suffering minor injuries to his leg and "will be at Clinton next Sunday with bells on." Henry was back in the bike for Sunday evening's Grand River Raceway program.
This year will mark the 33rd year that Clinton has hosted the Drivers Challenge and the third time that it has been held as a fundraising effort for Childcan, an organization which supports families who are dealing with childhood cancer diagnosis.
In the past, the Challenge has raised more than $250,000 for local charities, local clubs and organizations.
“It just makes events like this that much more special when you get benefit a great cause at the same time and I can’t think of a better one than Childcan,” explained Fleming.
As part of the day’s activities there will be a Twoonie Auction, Silent Auction, Barbecue and Bake Sale with all proceeds going towards Childcan.
First post on closing day is 1:30 p.m.
To view Sunday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Sunday Results - Clinton Raceway.
(With files from Clinton Raceway)