Fort Erie, September 24^th…Although the weatherman was calling for showers on Sunday afternoon, sunshine ended up ruling the day at Fort Erie Race Track for the Circle the Course for Cancer and COPE event.

Organized by a number of volunteers, this was the first time in the track’s 115 year history that the racing surface was opened up for the public to enjoy.  Hundreds of racing fans, community leaders, horse people and citizens of Fort Erie and the surrounding area, took part in walking the one mile oval.

Participants were asked to make a cash donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or a non perishable food donation to COPE.  Those people who made donations received a commemorative lapel pin and/or a commemorative wristband celebrating Fort Erie Race Track’s 115^th Anniversary.

Donations or food and money started pouring in at 11:00 am.

“It was truly an overwhelming response from our community, said volunteer Becky Singleton. “People were more than generous with their donations, giving much more than we had anticipated.”

A large horse trailer which is meant to hold two horses was filled to the roof with food donations for COPE, Fort Erie’s local food bank.  The food will be delivered on Wednesday at noon by a number of volunteers.

In total $5,000 was raised for the Canadian Cancer Society.  The race track will make a cheque presentation on Sunday, September 30^th during the live racing card.

“It is extremely uplifting to have such a large and diverse group of people support this event,” said FELRC Chief Operating Officer Rick Cowan. “We never anticipated a turnout this large and are very proud of the support we received.  It is an event everyone will remember and I am very grateful of the efforts of our volunteers who worked tirelessly in getting the message out about the importance of this promotion.”

Donations for both the Canadian Cancer Society and COPE will continue to be accepted at the race track until the end of the live racing season on October 30^th.

For more information please contact;

Elissa Blowe

Manager, Media & Marketing

Fort Erie Race Track

800-295-3770 ext. 3204

femedia@forterieracetrack.ca