Grand River Raceway Celebrates Opening of New 5/8 Mile Racetrack
Elora, ON – June 12, 2024 – Grand River Raceway is thrilled to announce the official opening of its new 5/8 mile racetrack, marking a significant milestone in the facility’s history. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held Wednesday, was attended by key stakeholders, community members, and racing enthusiasts, celebrating the culmination of a transformative project that began in the winter of 2023.
The expansion, completed on time and within budget, showcases the commitment and collaboration of everyone involved. This ambitious project was made possible through the generous support of Ontario Racing and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). The track’s design, credited to the renowned Greg and Dan Coon, reflects the latest advancements in racetrack engineering, ensuring a premier racing experience.
Ribbon cutting dignitaries joining the winner of Race 4 Prince Archie, Driven by Steve Hudon, Trained by Laura Toscani, Owned by Gino Toscani. Photo Credit; Tiffany Chantel Photography
From left to right;
Kate Edmundson, Jennifer Bodner, Director of Business Operations Ontario Racing, Robert Davies, Director GRAS, Gordon Thain, Executive Director Ontario Racing, Isaac Scott VP Finance GRAS, Sean Duvall, Director of Horse Racing OLG, Tony Morris, Director GRAS, Garth Green, President GRAS, Doug McCaig, Facilities Manager GRR, Steve Hudon, driver, Jenna MacDonell, GRR
Opening night on June 5 set a new benchmark for Grand River Raceway, with record-breaking wagering of $404,000 across a thrilling 10-race card. This remarkable achievement underscores the track’s potential to enhance the local racing scene and attract significant attention from the wider racing community.
The new track is already receiving rave reviews from drivers and trainers alike, who commend its fast surface and modern design.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Facilities Manager Doug McCaig, who played an instrumental role in overseeing the day-to-day progress of the construction. “It’s rewarding to see the hard work of our team and contractors pay off in such a significant way.”
In addition to elevating the racing experience, the 5/8 mile track provides a valuable training ground for local horsemen, many of whom previously traveled to Mohawk for training, broadening the facilities accessible to the racing community.
Grand River Raceway extends heartfelt thanks to all the contractors and workers whose dedication and expertise brought this project to fruition. Special recognition goes to Doug McCaig for his exemplary leadership throughout the construction phase.
Photo Credit; Tiffany Chantel Photography
As we look to the future, Grand River Raceway remains committed to providing top-tier racing and training facilities, fostering a vibrant and competitive environment for all. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this new chapter and experiencing the excitement of racing at our state-of-the-art track.
Here’s what you can expect this summer at GRR:
SPECIALITY RACE NIGHTS
July 12 – Wiener Dog Races
August 5 – Industry Day, featuring the Battle of Waterloo presented by Winbak Farms, 12:30 p.m. post time
August 30 – Harness the Hope Night – Giant Pink Patio Party on The GrandWay patio (dress in pink!).
September 6 – National Caretaker Appreciation Day at GRR, OSS 50th Celebration.
Get tickets and details about these great events here: https://grandriverraceway.com/events/
