Standardbred Canada, the national harness racing industry association, today announced that CFCY morning show host Lee Drake has been selected to co-host the O'Brien Awards, the Canadian Harness Racing’s National Awards, which will be held Saturday, February 5, 2005 in Mississauga, Ontario. The O’Brien awards are the highest honor the sport bestows upon its champion horses and individuals in this country.
“We are very pleased that Lee Drake has enthusiastically agreed to assist with the O’Brien Awards as one of the emcees. Mr. Drake brings a level of professionalism and energy for harness racing that will contribute to the evening’s success,” said Kathy Wade Vlaar, event co-ordinator. “We feel he will be a perfect complement to our other emcee, Ken Middleton of Race Night on the Score Network.”
Approximately five hundred people annually attend the O’Brien awards, which are named in recognition of Prince Edward Island native Joe O’Brien, one of the greatest harness racing drivers and trainers of all time.
“I am delighted that Lee has been asked to co-host the event,” said Mitch Murphy, Minister Responsible for Harness Racing in Prince Edward Island. ”Lee is well known on Prince Edward Island for capably hosting awards dinners for the Atlantic Breeders Crown, the World Driving Championship, and the PEI Standardbred Horse Owners Association, and I know he will represent our province very well.”
“I’m very excited to get an opportunity to play a role with the O’Brien Awards,” said Mr. Drake. “As a member of the harness racing community, this is certainly a highlight in my career to be involved in such a prestigious event.”