The 75th running of the PEI Colt Stakes races is planned for the Charlottetown Driving Park from September 17-20 and as many as 25 separate divisions are expected to take to the track over three race programs
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The first Colt Stakes races took place in Charlottetown on September 20, 1934 and an awards luncheon is scheduled as a windup event on that same date this year. This will be an occasion to thank the many volunteers and sponsors expected to support individual races or other aspects of the anniversary, as well as to honour some of the many individuals that have participated over the past 75 years.
Both historical and annual awards are planned for the luncheon, which will take place at The Top of the Park restaurant at 11:00 a.m. Sunday, September 20. The top breeder, owner and driver in Colt Stakes history, as documented in the Colt Stakes history book 'Raise A Colt,' will be presented the Presidents Awards for long-term achievement. Contenders for the awards this year are the following:
Top Breeder
Hollylaine Island Farm
• 29 Wins
Woodmere Farm
• 19
Top Owner
Ralph Annear
• 17 Wins
Claire MacDonald
• 16
Joe Smallwood
• 13
Gordon MacLean
• 11
Top Driver
Claire MacDonald
• 31
Earl Smith
• 29
Danny Romo
• 27
Kenny Arsenault
• 25
Gilles Barrieau
• 24
The top personalities in each category for the current year will also be recognized with the Globetrotter Awards sponsored by Pedigree Matching Globetrotter. Tickets for the luncheon are available from Colt Stakes directors and at Harness Racing PEI offices, or by calling Norman Hall at 902-368-2340 to reserve for pick-up at the door.
The 2009 PEI Colt Stakes are expected to have record purses this year and in addition to purse money participants will receive a copy of the Colt Stakes history book 'Raise A Colt' as well as an anniversary pin. Owners of winning horses will get an embroidered anniversary cooler and winning grooms an anniversary cap. There will also be consolation prizes for owners who miss out on the purse money, consisting of feed certificates, buckets, halters and shanks.
Breeders of the winners will also share in the prizes with breeders awards presented trackside for all races by Tara Hills Stud and Meridian Farms.
The anniversary history books and caps will also be available for sale to the public during the race events on Thursday, September 17 and the double-header program on Saturday, September 19.
(PEI Colt Stakes)