from RUS Ontario

Racing Under Saddle is an innovative new concept in harness racing for Canadian audiences and it will be showcased through a 10 race series across southern Ontario.

RUS is a hybrid of harness and Thoroughbred racing. Standardbreds that generally race pulling sulkies are ridden under saddle like a Thoroughbred, but start behind a moving gate like in harness racing. This is the first year that wagering will be available in Canada for the discipline and RUS Ontario is looking to make an impact. It will be a landmark year for the racing industry, bringing new excitement to bettors.

RUS Ontario has scheduled 10 races at seven tracks from July 1 to Oct. 1 and starts with the Canada Day debut at Mohawk Racetrack. ‘The Trot for the Cure’ will be in support of the Canadian Cancer Society and is in memory of Jim Carr, a great supporter of Standardbred racing in Canada.

Other highlights for 2014 include:

• July 13 at Clinton Raceway will be the first RUS event available for wagering.
• July 26 will be part one of Norway vs. Canada at Hanover Raceway, where selected riders from each country battle for supremacy.
• The conclusion of Norway vs. Canada plays out August 1 at Grand River in Elora
• August 4 at Grand River will see RUS as a featured race on Industry Day. RUS Canada has invited riders from around the world to be part of the International Trot. Representatives from Sweden, Norway, Finland, USA and more will compete and hopefully launch an annual event.
• Sept. 13 will see RUS Ontario take a spot on the full race card for the Canadian Trotting Classic night at Mohawk Racetrack.

For a full list of races visit www.rusontario.com/2014-race-dates.

RUS Ontario would like to extend its thanks to all Ontario harness tracks for the support and co-operation shown while planning our inaugural season.

Come and support the Ontario racing industry and of course enjoy the excitement that is horse racing.

For more information on events, sponsorships, or riders please contact racingundersaddle@gmail.com or Julie Walker at 519.379.7244.