Dayton, OH — Snow flurries and Christmas spirit were in the air on Saturday (Dec. 17) as the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association wrapped up their annual toy drive at Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway. Partnering once again with the Dayton Firefighters Local 136, the OHHA and Dayton Raceway were able to host their largest drive yet.

Following the evening’s first race, boxes of toys were loaded into the Dayton Fire Department’s truck to be distributed to local children in need. Even Santa Claus and the Grinch were able to stop by and help with the worthy cause.

Dayton-area horsepeople rallied together to support the OHHA’s largest toy drive to date. Conrad photo.

OHHA Track Representative Brett Merkle credits Dayton-area horsepeople with the drive’s success:

“We collected more toys than ever before,” said Merkle. “Every single gift will brighten a child’s Christmas morning. We can’t thank our horsemen enough for their generosity year after year.”

Paramedics and firefighters from Local 136 further extended their gratitude and commented that the looks they see on families’ faces when delivering gifts is priceless.

The Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association (OHHA) is a non-profit organization serving Standardbred horse owners, breeders, trainers, drivers and fans who participate in the sport of harness racing in the Buckeye State.

The OHHA was founded in 1953. The mission of the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association is to preserve, protect, promote and serve the entire Standardbred industry in Ohio and beyond.