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Harness racing industry rallies for barn fire victims

Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino in Cloverdale collecting money and co-hosting fundraiser for JJJ Stables, which lost 17 race horses.
FRASER DOWNS RACETRACK AND CASINO - Horse Racing Industry
Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino is raising money to help victims of a barn fire that killed 17 standardbred race horses.

The harness racing community is pulling together to help the owners of 17 Standardbred racehorses that were killed when fire destroyed a barn in Langley earlier this month.

Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino and Harness Racing B.C. are co-hosting a fundraiser reception and silent auction for JJJ Stables and the families impacted by the June 1 barn fire – described as the worst loss of livestock recorded in Langley Township history.

The horses and equipment lost in the fire were uninsured.

“It’s the worst thing that can happen when you’re in the racing industry,” said Chuck Keeling, Vice President, Stakeholders Relations and Responsible Gaming at Great Canadian Gaming Corporation. “It is a horrific loss for everyone.”

From now until Tuesday (June 17), Fraser Downs and three other race tracks owned by Great Canadian Gaming Corp. – Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver, and Ontario's Georgian Downs and Flamboro Downs – are collecting cash donations for the cause.

The June 17 fundraiser starts at 6:30 p.m. with a wine and cheese reception in the Homestretch at Fraser Downs. Contributions for the silent auction should be delivered to the reception desk at Fraser Downs by Sunday, June 15. For more information, call Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino at 604-576-9141.

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