Trainers and jockeys hit the dirt at the border oval to prepare for the May 28 season opener of the track's 127th season.
Fort Erie Race Track
Justin Stein rides back-to-back winners of this event as Fort Erie sets wagering records, topping $3.48 million for the Tuesday card.
The special Father's Day card at Fort Erie Race Track featured a sneaky dog, fast horses, large crowds and massive wagering numbers.
Total wagering was up 6 per cent over opening day 2022, with One More Ring taking the Spring into Summer Cup.
Opening Day on May 23 will feature a free concert, food trucks and Thoroughbreds hitting the track for the first race at 4:30.
The FELRC has filed a grievance with the Canadian Trade Commission over racing dates and restricted movement of horses.
More than 113 horses shipped into the backstretch over the long weekend, with more coming into the border oval daily.
The $400,000 stakes will feature Canada’s best three-year-olds running 1 mile and 3/16 on Fort Erie’s dirt track.
Erratique and jockey Helen Vanek were first across the finish line in the 1st for Colebrook Farms to kick off a spectacular day of racing.
Opening day highlights include the Summer Solstice and Sprint into Summer Cup, anniversary t-shirt giveaways and a free concert.
Handicapper Doug McPherson is taking over the announcing gig from Frank Salive, who retired after six years at the border oval.
This marks the third year in a row where the event will be held in September instead of the traditional July date.
Provincial regulations require that all spectators be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to attend horse racing venues.
On Tuesday, June 15th the first race will go off at 3 p.m. with enhanced COVID protocols to ensure the health and safety of all participants.
The rescheduled opening day for the 2021 season will depend on the province meeting its target of 60% first dose vaccinations administered.
