The memories of the former Sackville Downs racetrack

Truro Raceway will host a special event on Sunday, September 15, celebrating the memories of the former Sackville Downs racetrack. The day will feature a range of festivities to honour the legacy of this Maritime landmark.

Hall of Fame drivers Bill O'Donnell and Carl Jamieson, both with deep connections to Sackville Downs, will be present to meet fans and sign autographs from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, Samspace, star of the CTV series "Saving Sammy," will make an appearance alongside his owner Dennis Baxter from 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Samspace will also lead the post parade for two special races featuring drivers connected to Sackville Downs, either as former participants or representing their family members.

The drivers for these tribute races include Heath Campbell, Dave Carey, Stephen Charlton, Donnie Ellis, Carl Jamieson, Robert Laffin, Clare MacDonald, Kenny MacDonald, Toby MacDonald, Emmons MacKay, Paul MacKenzie, Bernard "Pooker" McCallum, Todd Ratchford, Danny Romo, and Henry Smallwood.

Fans can also explore a historical display featuring photos and memorabilia from Sackville Downs, with historian Scott Green on hand to discuss the display and answer questions. There will be nine memorial blanket presentations, paying tribute to those connected to the former racetrack.

The first 300 attendees will receive a free commemorative Winners Accolade postcard, featuring artwork by Michelle Hogan of harnessartist.com. A silent auction will also be held, with proceeds benefiting the Colchester and Sackville Food Banks.

Former Sackville Downs track announcer Clary Flemming will call the two Sackville driver races and co-host the race day broadcast with Kris Lamont. Longtime CTV Atlantic news anchor Jayson Baxter will conduct interviews from the winner's circle and greet fans throughout the day.

The event is part of the Nova Scotia Triple Threat Weekend. HPIBet customers wagering $40 or more on the race card will receive 5% cash back. The first 100 visitors arriving after 11 a.m. will receive a free $5 betting voucher, valid only on September 15. Fans can also enter a ballot to win a 40" full HD TV.

This event will be especially meaningful for former Sackville Downs driving champion Dave Carey, who will make his final career drive, closing out a remarkable career with 3,043 wins and over $2.6 million in earnings. Reflecting on his time at Sackville Downs, Carey noted how much the racetrack meant to his family and career.

Veteran horseman Danny Romo, another former Sackville Downs driver, is excited to participate and reconnect with old friends. Romo, with 3,770 wins and over $6.3 million in earnings, is eager to relive memories of the thriving community at Sackville Downs.

The day’s pre-race show with Clary Flemming and Kris Lamont will begin at 12:30 p.m. (Atlantic Time), leading into a nine-race card.