Perhaps it’s the longer days, the low setting sun, the smell of fresh cut grass or the feel of the warm breeze that remind you summer is just around the corner. For many that reside in the quaint, Southern Ontario town of Clinton, it’s the sound of thundering hooves, the echo of the announcer spanning across the half-mile track and the resounding cheers at the finish line as the longshot surges at the wire.
Live harness racing returns to Clinton Raceway, as the unofficial kick off to summer in Huron County on Sunday, May 21 at 1:30 p.m. Harness racing has been a summer staple in the community of 3,200 since before the 1970s. While inaugurated by the local Kinsmen Club, a board of directors assumed control in the early '80s and Clinton Raceway Inc. was established.
Each Sunday in the 15-week summer meet, hundreds of eager fans travel from neighbouring communities and beyond to take in the close up, heart-pounding excitement of racing action.
The 2023 season will mark the return of the “Day at the Races” fundraising program, allowing local groups, clubs and organizations the opportunity to host a trackside fundraiser. Over the last 20 years, more than half a million dollars has been funded through the program.
Central Huron Secondary School will be hosting the season opener with a 50/50 draw, trackside BBQ, bake sale and silent auction.
“We’re excited to be back on opening day,” stated organizer Leigh Melady. “We’ve added some fun elements this year, like face painting, and you’ll see a few staff and students take part in the hillbilly horse race on track.”
New and old racing fans alike are invited to take part in the Super Sunday Show, a live, interactive show, held between the races.
“It keeps the fans engaged during the lull between races, gives them some games to play and we always have plenty of giveaways too,” said Jessica Carnochan, Marketing Manager of Clinton Raceway.
After a brief attempt at retirement, Clinton native Carnochan returns for the 2023 season to her marketing role and race day host.
"We have a great product and a fun atmosphere to take it all in, it's important that we make it the best experience we can for visitors," she added.
Fans will have the chance to also win tickets to see country music star Shania Twain live in London this June. Two tickets will be held in a random draw from a ballot in the program and there will be two tickets to bid on in the silent auction. Students will also have the chance to take home a great prize, including a $300 voucher for local wake park Bluestone.
Admission and parking are always free for the family-friendly facility located on Beech St. in Clinton, Ont. The state of the art on-site playground also features a splash pad, skate park and pavilion for day use. The space is perfect for hosting family celebrations, anniversaries, birthdays or any group gatherings with onsite food and beverage also available. Complete season and facility information can be found by visiting clintonraceway.com or by contacting Jessica Carnochan at [email protected] with any race day questions.
(Clinton Raceway)