The Raceway at Western Fair District is proud to host the 14th annual Harness the Hope Fundraiser this Friday night (Oct. 25).
The event is held as a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Society of Canada and the Pink Pearl Foundation, a lesser known charitable organization making a big impact by offering social and emotional support to young women in southern Ontario over the course of their cancer journey.
Recently featured in Trot Magazine’s October 2019 issue, Harness the Hope has become a staple at The Raceway and one of the major events that kicks off each racing season in London.
It is the brainchild of Doreen Dustin a survivor herself and wife of local horseman Greg Dustin, along with their daughters Kristine and Brandi. With two diagnoses in the family now, most recently being her youngest daughter Kristine last year at the age of 33, they are driven with an even greater sense of purpose to help others and make a difference.
"The reason we've continued this each year is because of the tremendous support we've received from the industry. And, every year we have women in our community who are diagnosed and it keeps reminding us of the importance of this cause." Doreen explains.
The Raceway will be decked out in pink once again with festivities beginning at 6:00 p.m. Some of the events include the popular ‘Winning Key Contest’ with six grand prizes this year totalling over $7,800 combined value and include: an ultimate cottage weekend getaway on Lake Huron for six, a MacBook Air laptop, an LG 49” 4K Ultra Smart TV, a 11-drawer Mastercraft tool chest set, a rose gold diamond necklace and a luxury Michael Kors handbag set for the ladies.
Horsemen and women racing that night are encouraged to participate in the ‘best dressed horse’ contest. The horse that shows up with the most ‘pink’ in support of the cause will win a prize. Fans who wear pink to the track can fill out a ballot for mystery prize giveaway during the night. All patrons, sponsors, donors and volunteers are invited to join in trackside after Race 3 for a commemorative photo opportunity of the ‘Harness the Hope’ winning blanket presentation.
The special 12-race program will begin at 6:55 p.m. Top of the Fair restaurant has been sold out since August, however there is plenty of additional seating in the Raceway Annex with live entertainment by Truelove Ways and a pulled pork special will be offered for the night.
(The Raceway at Western Fair District)