Photo Essay: A Fun Friday Night At Mohawk Racetrack

On Friday evening I headed out to Mohawk Racetrack with my girlfriend Amy and Down The Stretch editor Peter Gross. After enjoying some fine dining in the restaurant overlooking the track, we headed out to the paddock to interview Jody Jamieson and Jonathan Drury as part of a story for the next issue of Down The Stretch.

It was a gorgeous night, no jacket required, and the Campbelville community was out in full force to support the local talent. The first race of the evening was the Ontario Sired Spring Series Final for three year-olds and featured a four horse entry that was bet down to 1-9. The entry of Power Off (1), Ala Carte Bill (1A), Blue Suede Shoes (1B) and Oscar Oscar (1C) were very nearly outdone by Randy Waples and Its A Good Thing, unfortunately for my daily double ticket, Rick Zeron steered Power Off across the wire just a few lengths in front of my 30-1 long shot.

As an added bonus we were also introduced to a trotter named Benns Champion who Peter has a small stake in courtesy of harness horse syndicate group Harness Racing Canada.

Here's Peter providing pre-race instruction for Benns Champion


Benns Champion led the trotters most of the way around the track and hung on deep into Mohawk's long stretch run before giving way. Though she didn't win the race it was still quite a thrill to cheer Benns Champion around the track!

If you haven't been out to Mohawk for an evening, I highly recommend making the drive across the 401. It's a great track for racing that generates a lot of position changes and guaranteed stretch action thanks to a huge sweeping turn heading into lane. Bring the family out on Sunday, May 17th, for Fireworks & Family Fun Night featuring activities for the kids, including face-painting, pony rides, a petting zoo, a craft corner, live music, and video games.

The Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society will be on hand as well, with one of its adoptable former racehorses to meet, pat, and admire.

Here's a few more photos from our Friday night!

This fashionable friend has a job leading the horses out to the track


Peter Gross and Benns Champion


The Mohawk grandstand was hoppin' on Friday night.


The horses blur into the turn at scenic Mohawk


The fans waited eagerly at the rail for a winner..


...and Jody Jamieson obliged with Im Just Special


A fun and family friendly night was had by all!