The Thoroughbreds are returning to Millarville Racetrack on Canada Day to continue a tradition that dates back more than a century.
The 119th Millarville Races will feature all kinds of activity on track, with as many as six Thoroughbred races complemented by ladies’ sidesaddle, stock horse and pack horse races. The First Nations relay races won’t be taking place this year.
The Thoroughbreds will make their annual July 1 stop in Millarville as the circuit transitions from Lethbridge to Grand Prairie. Attendees will be able to bet on the Thoroughbred races through pari-mutuel wagering.
In addition to the action on the track, the day will feature all kinds of activities for the kids, including three-legged, foot and sack races.
There will also be a mini version (60 vendors) of the Millarville Farmers' Market during the event.
“It's such a great community event and it's also reasonably priced for families,” said Millarville Racing & Agricultural Society president Brent Foster. “I think it's a great event to celebrate Canada Day and to really kick off summer.”
General admission tickets cost $16.95 (12 and under free) in advance or $20 at the gate.
Foster said organizers are encouraging people to buy their tickets in advance online (millarvilleracetrack.com/race-track) to save on the cost and to improve traffic flow into the facility located on Highway 549 near the intersection of Highway 22 in Foothills County.
When purchasing tickets online, guests will be able to select arrival times in 30-minute increments.
Gates open at 10 a.m. and the racing gets underway at noon.
The event also offers a VIP experience that costs $95 for adults and $16.50 for children, and includes gate admission, access to the VIP tent, lunch and exclusive betting terminals. VIP tickets are already sold out.
