Fraser Downs racetrack, a longstanding fixture in Surrey, British Columbia, abruptly closed its doors after nearly fifty years of operation, leaving the local horse racing community in shock. The track, formerly known as Cloverdale Raceway, held a special place in the hearts of many, including Kristina Rennich, who began her career there as a groom at the tender age of 12. For Rennich and others who dedicated their lives to the sport, the closure represented the end of an era.
Owned by Great Canadian Entertainment and situated next to Elements Casino, Fraser Downs was a hub for harness racing enthusiasts and industry professionals. The City of Surrey’s decision to terminate the lease, citing plans to revitalize the fairgrounds and town center, spelled the track’s ultimate demise. While Mayor Brenda Locke emphasized the city’s commitment to public good, acknowledging the racetrack’s historical significance, the closure marked a significant loss for the local community.
Rodrigo Perez, an assistant general manager at Fraser Downs, lamented the closure’s impact on the racing community and its proud legacy. The track, which originally opened as Cloverdale Raceway in 1976 before rebranding as Fraser Downs in 1996, had been a cornerstone of standardbred racing in the region. Rennich, reflecting on her time at the track, recalled the dedication and care that went into training and caring for the horses, highlighting the bond between humans and animals in the racing world.
While some, like the Vancouver Humane Society, celebrated the end of horse racing at Fraser Downs, citing concerns about animal welfare, others viewed the closure as a devastating blow. The Cloverdale District Chamber of Commerce mourned the loss of an integral part of the community’s identity and economy, emphasizing the deep roots of harness racing in the region. Former Surrey mayor Doug McCallum criticized the decision, noting the ripple effects on industry professionals who now faced uncertain futures.
For Rennich and many others, the closure of Fraser Downs represented more than just the end of a racetrack—it signified the loss of a way of life. From trainers to farriers, veterinarians to drivers, the track was a place where passion and dedication intersected, shaping careers and fostering a sense of belonging. As the dust settled on the final race at Fraser Downs, the echoes of hoofbeats and cheers faded into memory, leaving behind a void that could not easily be filled.
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