January 12th, 2009

First Horses Arrive at West Meadows Raceway

The first horses have arrived at the new Regina track and it was a big day for organizers at West Meadows Raceway (WMR). “It is both a historic day and a very exciting time for harness racing in Saskatchewan”, (WMR Director and Spokesperson Glenn Le Drew).  “Having the first horses on the grounds and on the track is very significant and has been long awaited.” West Meadows Raceway is the first Saskatchewan racetrack to open its doors to harness horsemen 365 days of the year for training. “So much work and effort have gone into building this place and this is a definite milestone that we have been looking forward to. Horsemen now have the opportunity to train their horses at a racetrack and be prepared for qualifying day and the beginning of the race meet. It should definitely help increase the number of horses ready to enter for opening day at Yorkton in May.”

The number of stalls are limited and stall applications along with more information can be found at www.WestMeadowsRaceway.com. Interested horsemen should submit their application and contact Jane Grainger at (306) 539-6123 to make stabling arrangements.

Regina’s track is the newest stop in a circuit that includes racing in both Yorkton and Saskatoon (Marquis Downs) and has applied for six race days for 2009. WMR Officials are now anxiously awaiting final confirmation on the number of days that will be approved for racing later this summer. “It is hoped that days in Regina would be added to the 16 day meet in Yorkton and the 8 days in Saskatoon. We are trying to extend the racing season for the horsemen and their owners.” Saskatchewan standardbred horsemen would like to see their number of race days closer to that of the thoroughbreds which get funded for a 30 day race meet in Saskatoon and 2 days in Melville.

“Yorkton and Saskatoon have done a great job promoting harness racing and thanks to both of them, the standardbreds have experienced significant growth with the live wager increasing in each of the last three years. Bringing harness racing exposure back to Regina and being part of that circuit will help the industry grow even more.” Regina has a large market base that is very excited to see it come back. West Meadows Raceway has received emails and letters from race fans that have been long awaiting its return.