When track announcer Rick Uppal says in his unique and distinguished delivery “R-r-r-r-acing” at approximately 9:45 p.m. Saturday night, he will be referring to seven female drivers making a special appearance
at Fraser Downs.
It’s all part of the annual ‘Harness The Hope’ celebration in support of Breast Cancer Research that begins with a Clubhouse buffet at 6:00 p.m. followed by dancing, a blackjack tournament, silent auction and, of course, live harness racing.
Fraser Downs became involved three years ago with the Nite of Hope organization that serves White Rock, South Surrey and Cloverdale. Over the past two years, Fraser Downs has raised nearly $16,000 for Breast Cancer Research.
“It’s been a wonderful association with Fraser Downs,” says Nite of Hope Director Debi Rumley. “We’ve been involved in Sunday afternoon harness racing programs in the past and we’re really looking forward to Saturday night with everything the staff at Fraser Downs has put together.”
Tying in with the ‘Harness The Hope’ theme, seven young ladies with various harness racing backgrounds locally have volunteered to drive in a non-betting feature following the eighth live race on the evening’s card.
In alphabetical order, the drivers include Donna Cunningham (Ed Hensley stable), Alivia Gogush (Justin Currie stable; trains two of her own horses), Dana Lawrence (Red Star Stables), Amber Lancaster (Ray Gemmill stable), Alana Main (former trainer; works for track in the paddock), Kayla Mills (Wayne Isbister stable; trains two of her own horses) and Cherie Paskaruk (Grant Hollingsworth stable; part-owner).
“It’s a wonderful gesture on their part,” says Director of Racing Jackson Wittup. “Some of them were nervous about the idea of driving in front of a Saturday night crowd but it’s another example of the teamwork that goes on in raising awareness for breast cancer.”
There are still a few tickets available by calling Fraser Downs Group Sales at (604) 575-5603.
Seven Starters For $25,000 Delta Pace
Seven pacers go postward in Race 10 on Saturday night but due to entries there are only five wagering interests in the $25,000 Delta Pace for three-year-old fillies.
Undefeated Mystic Maiden, who is 7-for-7, is listed as the 6-5 morning line favourite and faces some tough competition with the J J J Stables and Al Anderson entry of Shes With Me and So Relentless.
Regular 7:30 p.m. start times are in effect Friday and Saturday with Sunday racing beginning at 1:15 p.m.
(Fraser Downs)