Agriculture and Forestry Minister Mitch Murphy has announced that the department will be providing support to Prince Edward Island horseowners who participate in this year's Matinee Racetrack Challenge Series. The department will provide transportation assistance of $50 per horse to owners who travel 30 kilometers or more to the five matinee tracks.
"This support is part of our commitment to the harness racing industry in Prince Edward Island, and to racing events in local communities," said Mr. Murphy. "Matinee tracks are one of the foundations of the industry, and serve as an excellent means for people to get involved in harness racing."
Horses which participate in matinee race cards will earn points towards finals at the Summerside Raceway on September 20. The top 18 point earners (six per division) will race in the finals for a purse, cooler and Championship trophy. To be eligible to race in the finals, a horse must have competed in at least three events at a minimum of two different tracks.
Race dates will be July 23 and September 23 in St. Peters; July 29 and September 9 in O'Leary; August 3 and 5 in Alberton; August 23 and September 6 in Pinette; and August 27 in Kensington.
Mr. Murphy congratulated local officials for organizing these community-based
events, and expressed his appreciation to USTA and District 10 directors Paul MacKinnon and Donnie Simmonds for their support.