Overview of Grand River Raceway / Elements Grand River Operations and Features
Located in Elmira, Ontario, Canada, Grand River Raceway (also known as Elements Casino Grand River) is a horse racing track that offers live thoroughbred horse racing events from May to October, featuring both harness and standardbred racing. The facility grwcasino.ca also boasts an on-site casino, entertainment options, dining establishments, and other amenities.
History of the Track
The history of Grand River Raceway dates back to 1956 when it was founded as a half-mile dirt oval track called Elmira Speedway. In its early years, the track primarily featured stock car racing but eventually shifted towards standardbred harness racing in 1961. Over time, the facility underwent several renovations and expansions, transforming into a world-class entertainment venue known for hosting top-tier horse racing events.
Facilities and Amenities
Grand River Raceway offers an extensive array of amenities to cater to its patrons’ diverse needs:
- Racing Facilities : A large outdoor harness racing track with a capacity to accommodate over 6,000 spectators.
- Casino : Elements Casino Grand River features more than 630 slot machines and a range of table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker.
Dining Options
Grand River Raceway provides various dining establishments on-site:
- Trackside Restaurant : A full-service restaurant with an extensive menu offering Canadian cuisine.
- Elements Buffet : An all-you-can-eat buffet serving international dishes.
- The Grandstand Bar & Grill : Quick eats and light meals available in the comfort of the grandstand area.
Live Racing Events
Throughout its operational season (May to October), Grand River Raceway hosts both harness and standardbred racing events, each lasting approximately 1 hour. Some notable features include:
- Weekly stakes races for top-rated competitors
- Annual championship meets for the region’s top riders and horses
