EPR

Hockey Meets Horse Racing Garners National Media Attention

Horse Racing Meets Hockey Promotion a Huge Success

Saturday was one of the biggest promotions in Exhibition Park Raceway's history. Dubbed "Horse Racing Meets Hockey" things went off without a hitch after a lot of hard work and co-operation from a number of individuals and organizations.

Gilles Barrieau, the "Pride of Atlantic Canada" as announced at Saturday night's hockey game, was elated when receiving his World Driving Championship uniform in Australia & New Zealand in November.

Fans at Exhibition Park Raceway had a chance to meet Barrieau in a thirty-minute autograph session before the races got underway. Anna MacLeod of Standardbred Canada was in in attendance during Saturday's races which earned national headlines on Canadian television.

As part of the one-day promotion, Willy Win & the Saint John Sea Dog's mascot Splash raced off in foot race that would up in a photo finish. Edging out the win was Willy Win by a nose as the Standardbred Canada mascot was pulling WDC driver Gilles Barrieau. For fans, it was a real treat who were cheering loudly as the two mascots crossed the wire.

Fittingly, it was Barrieau who won the Saint John Sea Dogs pace with Osprey Ridge in 1:59.4. After the races, it was off to the game at Harbour Station!

In a pre-game ceremony, Gilles was given his red and white uniform that he will wear at the World Driving Championship by local M.L.A Roly MacIntyre. People at the game also had the chance to meet Barrieau as he signed a number of sports cards that were printed for the event.

Exhibition Park flyers were handed out to attendees at the game which included coupons for betting vouchers, race programs and bingo cards. I would like to extend a big thank-you to Anna macLeod who worked tirelessly with us on this promotion. Thanks also to the staff of E.P.R who graciously donated their time to hand-out the colourful flyers. Ross Galbraith from the New Brunswick Horse Racing Industry Association was an integral part as was Earl Fram who allowed us to showcase his star pacer Gordies Last Call at the rink on Saturday.

Thanks to Abel Arsenault who provided trucking services for the horse as well as Charlie Price for picking up the stall in Fredericton which was kindly donated by the 4-H club in Fredericton. DVD was provided by Woodbine Entertainment Group and a special thank you goes out to them. For all who took part, a big thank you for your contributions!