London’s annual Western Fair – the third largest fair in Canada – is preparing to kick off this Friday (Sept. 6), which means the return of live harness racing is also close at hand.
The fall meet at The Raceway will begin on Friday, October 4 following a four-month summer hiatus, and fans will notice some exciting changes when racing resumes.
The Top of the Fair dining room has undergone an extensive renovation during the off season. Brand new flooring, furniture and fixtures will create an enhanced experience for guests who can also take advantage of the ‘Two Can Dine For $59.99’ promotion during the month of October.
“We are looking forward to another great season of racing and entertainment at The Raceway,” said the track’s new director of racing, Rob Lumsden. “October has become a really busy month for us and we’re pleased to offer this excellent promotion at the newly renovated Top of the Fair. When you combine this deal with exciting live horse racing you have one of the most unique and affordable dining experiences in the city.”
The opening night festivities will include $1 programs and food specials along with prize giveaways throughout the night compliments of Ontario Racing. The ‘Wanna Drive’ team will also be on hand and will offer fans the chance to sit behind an actual racehorse in a custom made double-seater jog cart.
Race fans will also notice some major changes to the television broadcast. The entire production has been upgraded to high definition and will feature a fresh new look incorporated into the graphics package.
The off-season changes are all in an effort to enhance the experience for customers both on and off track.
“Upgrading our signal to high definition keeps us current in the marketplace,” said raceway manager Greg Gangle. “It helps keep our product at a high level and that translates into wagering and customer experience. This is something that we are very proud to share with our customer base beginning in October.”
Some of the other major events during the month of October at The Raceway include the third edition of the Veteran’s Classic on Friday, October 18, which will celebrate and honour our military; as well as the 14th annual Harness The Hope Night on Friday, October 25, in support of the Breast Cancer Society of Canada.
‘Pub Nights’ will return every Monday night at the Top of the Fair and will feature a unique pub-style menu. The second Tuesday of each month will be ‘Top of the Fair Tuesday,’ which will feature a wonderful buffet-style dinner and gaming package for just $26.99.
Reservations at the Top of the Fair can be made by calling 519-438-7203 (Ext. 252) or by emailing [email protected].
For complete details, visit westernfairdistrict.com.
(The Raceway at Western Fair District)