Experience the rush of driving a horse....                                                                  

At one time, small race tracks dotted Prince Edward Island....most rural communities had one.  They were where friendly races took place for the sheer enjoyment of running your horse against your neighbours.  Race afternoon was like a festival.  Families would come out....picnics would be packed and, yes, the odd wager would be placed but it was all in good fun.

Today there are only a few of the "matinee" tracks left....one of them, in the picturesque village of Pinette in eastern PEI.  Young horses being trained for the big tracks and older horses, still game but not up to the speeds needed to win in Summerside or Charlottetown. 

Now you can get a feel for what it's like to be part of the Island harness racing history by becoming a Driver for a Day.  As a family, a couple or on your own you'll start your experience at 9:00 am with your trainer providing you with a familiarization tour of the barns where you'll meet some interesting Island characters who will regale you with stories of great victories and near-wins.  You'll learn the basics of horse care and try your hand at grooming and cleaning out stalls. (Hey, if you really want to learn you have to do everything!) 

In the afternoon, you'll help put the harness on your horse and hitch up the special double-seater cart.  Then, with an experienced driver at your side, you'll head out onto the track for an easy jog around the oval.  Once you're comfortable, you'll take the reins and feel the true meaning of "horsepower."  As the breeze rushes across your face, you won't be able to stop smiling.

See       the beauty and majesty of magnificent equine athletes

Smell   the sweet aroma of fresh cut grass and rich red soil

Taste    the blend of flavours in your specially prepared picnic lunch

Touch   the strong muscled shoulders as you lovingly groom your horse

Hear     the pounding of your heart as you race for the finish line

Driver for a Day is available from July 1 to August 22 and can be booked for individual adults, couples, youths or families.  Each experience includes personal hosts, hands-on activities and an opportunity to drive a horse.  In order to provide personalized attention, each experience will have limited participants.   Book early to avoid disappointment.  This experience is made possible through a partnership with the Matinee Racetrack Development Project.

Driver for a Day: $85.00 per person + GST       9:00 am - 3:00 pm Mon-Fri

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