Harness: 37th O’Brien Awards head to London

Standardbred Canada (SC) is thrilled to unveil the much-anticipated details for the 37th O’Brien Awards Weekend — a high-energy, star-studded celebration guaranteed to deliver unforgettable moments.

From Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, 2026, the O’Brien Awards will make its debut in London, Ont. — the heart of Southwestern Ontario and a vital community in Canadian harness racing. The weekend will kick off on Friday, Jan. 30, with SC’s annual Board Meeting and All Members Meeting, followed by an evening of live racing at The Raceway.

“We are very excited that the 37th O’Brien Awards will be hosted in London, Ont.,” said Darryl Kaplan, President & CEO of Standardbred Canada. “With the support of our outstanding partners at Western Fair District and access to world-class facilities, we hope guests and finalists from across North America will bring family and friends to join us for an unforgettable celebration of Canadian harness racing.”

The spotlight then turns to Saturday, Jan. 31, when the 37th O’Brien Awards Black Tie Gala takes centre stage at the newly rebranded J-AAR Expo Centre at Western Fair District (formerly the Agriplex). This state-of-the-art venue will be transformed into an elegant setting befitting the industry’s most prestigious celebration. Its expansive lobby will serve as the perfect backdrop for the Red Carpet Show and cocktail reception.

Greg Blanchard, Director of Equine Programming at The Raceway at Western Fair District, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “The O’Brien Awards are the pinnacle of our sport in Canada and our organization is tremendously excited to host this event for the first time. We look forward to welcoming guests to London and celebrating the very best in Canadian harness racing.”

Finalists and their guests will stay at the Hard Rock Hotel London, located within the vibrant 100 Kellogg Lane complex. This new luxury property blends bold style, elevated amenities and the unmistakable spirit of music legends. Connected to 100 Kellogg Lane by an underground tunnel, guests will have seamless access to a world of entertainment, including The Factory — Canada’s largest indoor adventure facility, the new Children’s Museum and The Club House, featuring 10 multi-sport simulators for golf, baseball, hockey, shooting and more.

Standardbred Canada is proud to partner with Western Fair District and the Hard Rock Hotel London to create a truly iconic experience for everyone attending the 37th O’Brien Awards Weekend.

Hosting this year’s event in London will spark meaningful economic benefits for the city and deepen the connection between urban London and its agricultural roots. By showcasing Western Fair District as a dynamic hub that elevates both our industry and the broader agricultural community, the 37th O’Brien Awards will honour our champions, celebrate our culture and strengthen the fabric of this thriving city.

-release (Standardbred Canada)