The first of 48 nights of live harness racing kicks off at Grand River Raceway on June 1.
During its 13th season, the Elora oval will race Monday and Wednesday nights at 6:30pm from June 1 through Sept. 28. The track’s signature Fun and Frivolity Friday Race Nights are featured from June 3 through Sept. 2 at 6:30pm.
Two exceptions to the aforementioned schedule: no racing on Aug. 26; and post time is 1:30pm on Aug. 1.
Opening night contest
Racehorse ownership is in the cards for one contest winner when Grand River Raceway awards a $500 gift certificate to thestable.ca on June 1.
Entries will be considered via social media shares and retweets, emailed entries and on-track entries submitted on June 1. Thestable.ca is a fractional racehorse ownership stable owned by Anthony and Amy MacDonald of Guelph.
Local Biz Night
Opening night also marks the seventh annual Local Biz Night, presented in cooperation with the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce. The event hosts more than 100 local businesspeople paired with a horse in the Local Biz Night Race. Prior to the dash, guests are treated to a cocktail reception hosted by the OLG Slots at Grand River Raceway, followed by dinner and a trip to the paddock to meet their horse.
Betting contest begins
The Grand Betting Contest will be offered each Monday and Wednesday race night (34 total) starting June 1. Each nightly contest challenges players to select the winner in five races. Players finishing second and third win $25 apiece.
Survivor Contest
An online Survivor Contest, sponsored by HPIbet, will be offered each Wednesday race night beginning June 1. Entry is free and the winner will receive a $100 HPI account deposit.
Third annual media race
On June 3, Barry Finn, editor of The Rider magazine, will return to defend his title against newcomers Darryl Law of 107.5 DAVE ROCKS and Lisa Richards of Magic 106.1 FM. Award-winning equine photographer Dave Landry rounds out the field in his driving debut.
The media personalities, accompanied by a pro driver, compete in a half-mile dash. Race fans will vote for the winner for a shot at a $50 betting voucher.
Friday nights
Kids will enjoy the NEIGHbourhood, a free interactive horse education program held under the Tarmac Tent from 6:30pm to 8:30pm.
Programming includes horse crafts, a guided barn tour, and photo opportunity in the Winners Circle with the winning horse of The NEIGHbourhood Race.
Ontario Regional Driving Championship
On June 24, eight of the province’s best drivers compete in an eight-race competition to earn a berth in the 2016 National Driving Championship.
Wiener Dog Races
On July 8, back by popular demand, one of the biggest events of the season features 30 Dachshunds in a bid for glory.
Enjoy 4 dog races and 10 horse races, and an Agility Course. There are no losers, only wieners on July 8 at Grand River Raceway. Dog registration opens June 6.
Industry Day Celebration
Grand River Raceway features its 26th anniversary Industry Day Celebration on Aug. 1 at 1:30pm. The afternoon card features the 19th annual Battle Of Waterloo and the 8th annual Battle Of The Belles.
Visit www.grandriverraceway.com for more information.