Grand River Raceway Shatters Records in Inaugural Five-Eighths-Mile Season

Fresh off a record-setting 2023 meet, expectations were even higher ahead of Grand River Raceway's inaugural season as a five-eighths-mile track. And the Elora, ON oval did not disappoint, concluding its 48-race date 2024 program on Monday (Sept. 30) with new benchmarks across the board.

Powering Through Challenges to Deliver an Unforgettable Season

Surging Handle and On-Track Betting

Grand River Raceway's overall handle settled at a new record high of $13,933,212 — a nearly $50,000 increase year-over-year. This continued the track's impressive handle growth, which saw a drastic 29% surge from 2022 to 2023. On-track betting also rose by approximately 3% in 2024, further solidifying the venue's financial success.Raceway manager Jenna MacDonell attributed this upward trend to the team's unwavering commitment to enhancing the customer experience. "Our goal this year was to maintain that momentum and keep trending upwards, and we were able to do that," she said. The track's focus on creating a lively, engaging atmosphere through a series of patio parties and events played a crucial role in driving increased on-track wagering.

Overcoming Weather Challenges with a Revamped Racing Surface

One of the key factors behind Grand River's record-breaking season was the successful implementation of a revamped racing surface. In previous years, heavy rainfall had often led to track washouts and cancellations, but this year, the new and improved surface proved its mettle."This year, we had some serious rain at different points in the season, and the track held up beautifully," MacDonell explained. "That was something people were particularly excited about, because in the past, with the drainage and the way that it was, if we had a really rainy day, you knew there was a good chance that we were going to have to cancel."The stable and safe surface not only provided peace of mind to drivers, but it also allowed for more competitive and free-flowing races. "There was quite a bit of action, and it was easier to move," MacDonell said. "It didn't matter so much what post position you were at. With the old track, it used to be if you had the 7- or 8-hole, you're thinking 'oh no.' From what I saw and the feedback that I got, it was less so that way this year – you still had a shot if you were on the outside."

Record-Breaking Performances and Thrilling Races

The new five-eighths-mile track layout at Grand River Raceway proved to be a boon for speed and performance. Several track records were set throughout the season, including a new overall track record of 1:50.3 by Betthebeach on Sept. 27, surpassing the previous mark of 1:50.4 set by Ideal Perception on Jun. 17.The track also witnessed its first sub-1:50-mile in a qualifying event on Sept. 4, when a 6-year-old pacer named Saulsbrook Victor qualified in 1:49.1. These impressive speed numbers quickly quelled any initial concerns about the starting position being too tight."People were worried about where that start line was — when they come off the gate, they're essentially right into the turn — but the feedback we got was that the turns were so nice and sweeping that it wasn't really an issue," MacDonell said. "That was something we were worried about, and it ended up not being a non-issue."

Fostering a Vibrant Community and Memorable Events

Beyond the track's performance, Grand River Raceway also excelled in creating a vibrant community atmosphere and hosting a series of memorable events throughout the season. The track's signature events, such as the Battle of Waterloo and the Harness the Hope breast cancer research fundraiser, were resounding successes.The Battle of Waterloo, won by Stonebridge Wizard, was a highlight for MacDonell, who praised the industry support and the lively patio party atmosphere. "It was a great day," she said. "It was hot, but it was great to see so many industry members come out. We had a bumping patio party with the whole Winbak [Farms] crew being in town. They support that event and the track so much, and we truly appreciate it."The Harness the Hope event, which holds a special meaning for the Grand River family, also proved to be an extraordinary success, raising $25,000 for breast cancer research. "Katie Giddy, our VP of operations is a breast cancer survivor, and it's a night that's near and dear to our hearts around here," MacDonell said.The track's commitment to creating a family-friendly atmosphere was also evident in events like Weiner Dog Night, which attracted nearly 3,000 people. "One of the things that surprised me about that day is that the team had almost warned me, 'as soon as the dog races are done, you'll see a lot of people head out,'" MacDonell said. "But it was a beautiful night, and there were just fabulous vibes on the tarmac, and the people stuck around right until the very end."For MacDonell, who grew up immersed in the sport, sharing her passion for harness racing with both new and seasoned fans is what drives her to continually elevate the Grand River experience. "I know what a great sport it is, and I want other people to know," she said. "It's such a great team here. I know the industry loves coming here, and I can see why. The people here, they're the same ones that have been here year-after-year. They're friendly and inviting and welcoming, and our [creative] team does their best to put on these great events, and they do a wonderful job."