The Prince Edward Island Harness Racing Industry Association has released a survey to establish how best to boost its 2021 season.
The Prince Edward Island Harness Racing Industry Association (PEIHRIA) is planning to improve the upcoming live season in the province, continuing upon the momentum gained during last year’s season. Subsequently, the association released a survey to trainers, owners and breeders to get their feedback on possible improvements.
Last season was prolific for the province, with all eyes now turned to the upcoming racing schedule. This is in stark contrast to the situation in Ontario, where all races have been suspended yet again due to the ongoing pandemic.
Feedback
To make the survey objective and gain the best possible feedback, PEIHRIA has teamed up with trainers, consultants, and breeders. Subsequently, interviews were conducted with 15 industry leaders, including ten trainers and five breeders. The survey steering committee is headed by Mike O’Brien, along with the dean of the Atlantic Veterinary College and the president of Holland College in Charlottetown. PEIHRIA plans to team up with the two academic institutions in order to form an educational partnership.
O’Brien stated that a report would be compiled from the received feedback, and the association will share the acquired information in the form of podcasts, presentations, or video footage. The survey is available for all horsepeople on PEIStandardbredSurvey.com. Alternatively, they can grab a copy of the questionnaire at one of the two Red Shores racetracks in Summerside and Charlottetown.
Qualifiers
The first set of qualifiers have already taken place at the Charlottetown Driving Park. Card Swap won the first qualifying race in a time of 2:03.4, with World Wonder coming in second and Pictorian Thunder crossing the finish line third. Over eight qualifying sessions have now taken place at the venue, with the new season about to start this Saturday.
Exciting Schedule
The racetrack has previously revealed its schedule for the upcoming live harness events. Starting this month, local fans will be able to enjoy over 79 different spectacles. One of the most anticipated contests is the 62nd edition of the Guardian Gold Cup & Saucer.
