Live harness racing made its return for the 2015 season at Huron County's Clinton Raceway on Sunday afternoon. The unofficial kick off to summer included a full card of trotters and pacers to entertain the large opening day crowd.
Central Huron Secondary School was on track for a fundraiser that included a 50/50 draw, BBQ, silent auction and bake sale, generating just over $1,500 for their mental health awareness day planned for next school year. The staff and students expressed their thanks for all the support from the fans at Clinton Raceway.
Fans had the chance to win a BBQ from Verbeeks in Clinton and the lucky winner was Ann Bauer. She qualified through CKNX AM920 to attend as a VIP, and left with the BBQ.
Clinton's defending driving champion Trevor Henry opened the race card with a pair of wins aboard the maiden-breaking sophomore colt Decroft Blast for trainer Randy Marriage and local owner Clarence Dekens, and Cat Sass Stable's 11-year-old pacer Wildcat Art for trainer Bruce Gilkinson. In total, Henry made three trips to the winner's circle as he also won the finale with four-year-old pacing mare T R Lexus Cam, trained by James Stewart for owner Gregory Mason. Lorne House and Robert Sparling Jr. each had a driving double on the 10-race program.
This season is jam packed with a little something for everyone, from fundraisers and community events to stakes races, a driver's challenge and the return of Legends Day in September. Next Sunday those race fans who are 50 or better will receive a great package, including lunch, a betting voucher and program for $12. Visit clintonraceway.com for a complete list of events. Live race post time 1:30 p.m. all summer long at Clinton Raceway.
To view Sunday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Sunday Results - Clinton Raceway.
(With files from Clinton Raceway)