SURREY - The horse racing community has banded together to help the owners of the 17 standardbred horses that died in a massive barn fire in Langley on June 1. The horses were mostly two-to threeyear-olds that were resting ahead of the next harness-racing season at Fraser Downs this fall.
In an effort to assist JJJ stables and families impacted by the devastating barn fire, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation (GCGC) is collecting cash donations at four facilities and holding a fundraiser in Surrey. The horses and equipment lost in the fire were uninsured and were valued at up to $1 million."It's the worst thing that can happen when you're in the racing industry," said Chuck Keeling, vice president of stakeholder relations and responsible gaming for GCGC."It's a horrific loss for everyone."A fundraising event is planned at Fraser Downs on Tuesday (June 17) at 6:30 p.m. The night will include a wine and cheese reception in the homestretch at Fraser Downs and a silent auction.Those wishing to contribute to the silent auction should deliver items to the Fraser Downs reception desk prior to Sunday (June 15).Cash donations are being collected at Fraser Downs, Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver, as well as Ontario-based Georgian Downs and Flamboro Downs.Langley Township Fire Chief Russ Jenkins said officials may never know what caused the extensive fire."It was fully involved when we got there," he said. "The main structure of the stable and the roof had collapsed. In my 22 years in the Township, this is the worst one I can imagine in terms of animal casualties."For more information on the Fraser Downs fundraiser, call 604-576-9141.The Now With files from Vancouver Sun