Grand River Raceway: Winbak Farm to sponsor Battle of Waterloo

Grand River Raceway (GRR) announced that Winbak Farm will be the presenting sponsor of the 25th edition of Battle of Waterloo, held on August 1, 2022.

The Battle of Waterloo, a stake for Ontario Sired 2-year-old pacers, is the signature race held annually at GRR and a key early-season race for all colts racing in the Ontario Sires Stakes program. The stake, with a projected purse of $250,000, is the feature event during the annual Industry Day (Civic Holiday) special afternoon race card.

With less than a week until GRR's race season begins, GRR is preparing for their upcoming season as they plan to return to full capacity, after the subdued 2020 and 2021 seasons.

"We are thrilled to have a standardbred industry leader such as Winbak Farm partner with Grand River Raceway," said Jamie Martin, Raceway Manager at Grand River Raceway. "Their drive to breed winners and ongoing commitment to raising awareness of the industry in Ontario aligns with what we strive to do at GRR. This made them a natural fit for The Battle of Waterloo."

Founded in 1991 by Joe and JoAnn Thomson, the flagship Winbak Farm is located on 2,000+ acres of lush Maryland farmland, with operations extending into Delaware, New York, and Canada. Winbak is the breeder of 2021 Canada Horse of the Year, Desperate Man, and a leading breeder for Ontario Sires Stakes (#1 in 2010, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021).

"Grand River Raceway has always been an integral part of the Ontario harness racing industry," said Pat Woods, Canada Manager, Winbak Farm. "It was an easy decision for Winbak Farm to partner with Jamie Martin and the GRR team. We love their vision, dedication, and commitment to improving this sport and racing here in Ontario. It is an honour for us at Winbak Farm to have our name associated with such a great two-year-old "Battle of Waterloo" race. So many outstanding horses have won this event over its 25-year history and we are so proud to be a part of it."

"Winbak Farm is proud to partner with Grand River Raceway," said Joe Thomson, Winbak Farm Owner. "The Battle of Waterloo is a prestigious race that horses bred by Winbak Farm and horses sired by Winbak Farm stallions have raced well in. We look forward to starting a partnership with Grand River."

GRR opened its doors on Friday, June 3, 2022, and will be welcoming guests back at full capacity.

For up-to-date information about the race schedule or events visit grandriverraceway.com.

-edited release (Louise Frost for Grand River)