Grand River Raceway’s live harness racing season will consist of 48 dates in 2014.
The recent announcement from the Ontario Racing Commission confirmed race dates for nine standardbred tracks in the province.
During its 11th season, the Elora oval will race Monday and Wednesday nights at 6:30pm from June 2 to Sept. 29.
The track’s signature Fun & Frivolity Friday race nights are featured from June 6 to Sept. 5 at 6:30pm. There are two exceptions to this: no racing on Aug. 22; and a 1:30pm post-time on Aug. 4.
Grand River Raceway is one of eight racetracks in the Standardbred Alliance — a newly formed structure within the Horse Racing Partnership Plan announced by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
The Alliance members represent a three-tier racing hierarchy, “Grass Roots’” (Clinton, Hanover), “Signature” (Flamboro Downs, Georgian, Grand River and Western Fair) and “Premier” (Mohawk and Woodbine).
Open house
The week before racing season begins, Grand River Raceway will host its sixth annual backstretch open house. On May 25, guests are invited to drop-in any time from 11am to 2pm for a glimpse behind-the-scenes and the opportunity to drive a racehorse. Admission is free.
Opening night
June 2 is opening night (post time is 6:30pm) and marks the fifth annual Local Biz Night, presented in cooperation with the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce.
The event hosts more than 150 local businesspeople who are then paired with a horse in the Local Biz Night Race.
Before the dash, guests attend a cocktail reception hosted by OLG Slots at Grand River Raceway, followed by dinner and the chance to meet their horse.
Takeout rates
In 2013, Grand River Raceway made major reductions (totaling 23 per cent) to its take-out rates. Those rates remain intact for this season, giving the half-miler one of the most attractive take-out structures in North America.
Fun & Frivolity Friday Nights
The crew from 107.5 DAVE FM will broadcast live from the tarmac every Friday night all summer.
Kids will enjoy the “NEIGHbourhood,” an interactive horse education program held under the Tarmac Tent from 7 to 9pm.
Industry Day
Grand River Raceway features its 24th annual Industry Day Celebration on Aug. 4 at 1:30pm. The popular afternoon card features the 17th annual Battle Of Waterloo and the sixth annual Battle Of The Belles.
Race night buffet
A re-vamped $16.99 buffet will be featured every race night in the Captain’s Quarters tiered dining room overlooking the racetrack. Group bookings are filling quickly – reserve by calling 519-846-5455 ext. 247.
