Back by popular demand, Grand River Raceway will host its fifth annual backstretch open house on Oct. 19.
Guests are invited to drop-in any time from 11am to 2pm for a rare glimpse of horse racing behind the scenes.
A full tour of the of the raceway’s main open house stations will last approximately one hour. The itinerary includes the unique opportunity to drive a racehorse. Standardbred racehorses and double-seated jog carts from the Hands On Horses Program will provide the horsepower.
Other hands-on stations include a tour of the judges’ stand and announcer’s booth high atop the grandstand, and the opportunity to call a pre-recorded race alongside track announcer Gary Guy.
Back in the barn, visitors will learn the basics of breeding, owning, training, driving and caring for racehorses in sessions led by industry experts.
Machinery enthusiasts will enjoy the opportunity to view and learn about the equipment and techniques required to maintain the track surface. The ever-popular starting car will also be on display, and open for photo opportunities.
No registration is required. The event is suitable for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
The open house runs rain or shine. Participants are urged to wear closed-toe shoes and casual, comfortable clothing.
Admission is free, but participants are urged to make a $2 donation at the door to support the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society.
A barbecue lunch and beverages will be available for purchase between 11:30am and 2pm.
The Grand River Raceway Open House is presented in cooperation with the Hands On Horse Program and the Ontario Harness Horse Association.
More than 1,000 people have attended Grand River Raceway’s Open House event in the past four years.
For more information, visit http://grandriverraceway.com/open-house, call 519-846-5455 x238 or email info@grandriverraceway.com.
