Even though Wayne Gretzky is long retired, he and his family have a knack for the spotlight.
Visitors to Clinton Raceway this Sunday (June 24) will have a chance to meet Walter Gretzky, father of the 'The Great One.' Although, it is not just Walter's appearance which will make the day extra special, as the Big Bike for Heart and Stroke and eliminations for the Kin Pace will also be taking centre stage.
The Big Bike for Heart and Stroke will be taking place on track during the live race card.
Walter will make a special stop during the day, to sign some autographs and hop on the big bike to help raise money for The Heart and Stroke Foundation. Gretzky, who’s in town for the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation Gala Fundraiser the night before, will be trackside from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
“We’re excited to welcome Walter to the track,” said the track's marketing manager, Jessica Carnochan. “It’s one of those things that just kind of fell into place, it’s a great tie in to the day, and we think the fans will really enjoy having him trackside.”
In conjunction with Big Bike Day, The Heart and Stroke Foundation will be offering a free mass CPR training course, to anyone who is interested. “Thanks to a very generous donation from a local couple, we’re able to offer this rare opportunity” stated Jen Giller, spokesperson for the foundation. “The couple was adamant that the money be used at this event, and we’re extremely grateful to them for their contribution”. The unmentioned donors will be honored during the races on Sunday.
There will be a session of big bike riders before the races begin, then the track will be closed at one point during the race card. The mass CPR course will begin at approximately 3:00 p.m.
The Heart & Stroke Big Bike is a team event geared towards community organizations, companies and groups. Teams made up of 29 enthusiastic riders (and one driver provided by the Foundation) pedal through their community in support of heart disease and stroke research, more information can be found at bigbike.ca. New riders are always welcome, and anyone interested in putting in a team can contact Jen Giller with the foundation.
Eliminations will be held on track for the $60,000 Kin Pace on Sunday July 1. The Canada Day card promises to be full of entertainment with the chance to win $500 by picking the winner of the Kin Pace, live entertainment with the Slim Pickin’s Band, and a $12 fish and chip dinner.
Live harness racing, all summer long at Clinton Raceway, first-race post time 1:30 p.m.
(With files from Clinton)