by Greg Blanchard, for WFD Media

London, ON — Saulsbrook Peach captured the inaugural Veterans Classic Pace – part of the first ever Veterans’ Classic night held on Friday (Oct. 20) at The Raceway at Western Fair District.

The London oval was playing host to the first-time event which honoured Military Veterans, past and present, in a unique way during the night’s 10-race harness racing program.

The evening began prior to the race program with opening ceremonies performed by 1st Hussars Military Troop, followed by the official unveiling of the Raceway’s new ‘Veterans Inspired’ winner’s circle.

Fans also had a chance to meet several veterans and check out the various military vehicles and displays that were on hand throughout the facility. Video tributes were shown between races as well.

The inaugural Veterans Classic Pace went in race seven and it was the Isabelle Darveau trainee Saulsbrook Peach who went wire-to-wire in 1:56. The 8-year-old notched his 23rd career win for driver Robert Shepherd and owner Catheline Pelletier.

Live racing resumes at The Raceway this Monday night with a first post of 6:15 p.m.