Via its annual golf tournament, Hanover Raceway has announced it is coming to the aid of former track blacksmith Gene Girodat, who is today undergoing quadruple heart bypass surgery at St. Mary's hospital in Kitchener, Ont.
Hanover is going to hold a fundraising auction as part of its annual golf tournament on Wednesday, September 3 for 51-year-old Girodat, now a self-employed farmer and horseman.
So Far, Wilson Tack has donated an extreme harness, and Dougan is donating a texas mickie for a raffle draw after the tournament.
"Family and friends have been helping with Gene's farm chores, and we felt something should be done for the longtime Hanover Raceway horseman," said Hanover general manager Gord Dougan.
"Those who know Girodat know he's had a tough life, including the loss of his parents at an early age, in tragic accidents."
Dougan said the next few months are going to be tough for Girodat, so himself and a few local horseman decided to do something to try and help him out.
Via release, Dougan said Clinton Raceway general manager Ian Fleming is also looking into an auction item. Anyone else interested in donating to the auction should call Gord Dougan at Hanover Raceway at 519-364-2860 (Ext 2).
There are still a few openings in the tournament, which starts with a noon registration at the Pike Lake golf course.
(With files from Hanover)