As I was watching the 2009 National Driving Championship at Fraser Downs, all I could think about was how much fun it was. How, I was thinking, can you possibly sustain this fun 107 days a year?
We all know the results of the day so I will just offer a few of my personal highlights:
• 15 Forwards (young and old) hit Vancouver to cheer on Brad, and 300 signatures on a banner from Western Fair Raceway supported his drives.
• The media press conference was attended by a significant number of Vancouver’s press -- print, TV and otherwise.
• Great Canadian Gaming hosted all the drivers and their guests in their VIP Box for a Canucks game.
• A meet and greet of the drivers in the lobby of the grandstand the morning of the championship was a hit with the fans.
• There was great competition on the track, with a driver from each region of Canada having a chance to win going into the last race.
• The casual dinner and reception after the races gave all Fraser Downs horsemen the opportunity to come and meet the drivers.
Brad Forward, I know, will be a great ambassador for Canada in Norway both on and off the track. Good luck Brad! And thanks to everyone. I had a REALLY FUN DAY at the races!
Now I’m looking ahead to Standardbred Canada’s Wagering Conference (April 28-30 at Caesar’s Windsor Casino Resort), which you’ll definitely read about in my column next month.
On another exciting note -- wouldn’t it be fun if you could bottle adrenaline? I think it might put a lot of drug dealers out of business! Sarnia’s Hiawatha Horse Park and Entertainment Centre will be full of Adrenaline (Canada’s Racing Festival) from August 20 to 23. It’s expected to attract a total of 30,000 - 40,000 people for four days of different events that will be scheduled around standardbred racing. Stay tuned to SC’s website for updates as we get closer. SOUNDS LIKE FUN!
In our busy world, how can we keep up with all the hot standardbred racing issues in North America? The answer? Tune into Trot Radio and listen to host Norm Borg (who is also track announcer at Rideau Carleton) interview people for both sides of the story. Norm asks his guests very pointed questions to create discussion and does his best to separate truth from rumour. Keep up the good work Norm!
Speaking of Rideau Carleton, all handicappers out there had better circle November 8 on their calendar and plan to participate in Trot’s National Handicapping Contest. Finalists from the qualifying events in each region of Canada will be hosted by Rideau Carleton on that date. Last year the winner received $25,000, so be sure to read the SC website for all the details on how to enter and participate. ANOTHER FUN EVENT!
I’d like to wish good luck to everyone involved with Canada’s newest racetrack, Alberta Downs in Lacombe, AB. By the time you are reading this the inaugural meet will have begun, so I will report more next month.
Finally, congratulations to a couple of young trainers from Fraser Downs who registered their first wins. Michael Monroe scored for the first time with Red Star Tomboy and Dave Hudon Jr. was victorious with Lil Kent. And I usually only mention first time achievements, but I can’t help but congratulate David Miller on driving win number 9,000 and Jacques Hébert on his 5,000th win.
Until next month... HAVE FUN AT THE RACES!