New grandstands and big screens for fans
Jun 29, 2009 - 12:38 PM
By Reka Szekely
AJAX -- On a sunny June Day, Norm Picov is outside watching the horses trot around his brand new track at Ajax Downs.
Though they're just exercising, the horse's hoofs sound like soft thunder on the track and Mr. Picov looks on with pride.
"It's a 30-year ambition of our family to accomplish this," said Mr. Picov of the new track.
His Ukrainian-immigrant father, Alex Picov, opened his quarter horse race track in 1969. Nine years later, he opened a new horse complex in Ajax, called a J-track.
It's still a family business and Mr. Picov's grandson, Justin Picov, was in charge of constructing the new elliptical track which runs five-eighths of a mile. It's state of the art and should reduce injuries among the race horses.
It also allows for races of different distances so fans get a higher quality race, said Nick Coukos, vice-president of corporate affairs for Ajax Downs.
"Instead of watching a race for 12 seconds, now you get to see a 30-second race," he said.
Opening day was June 6 and the season extends into October.
"We race every Sunday and many Saturdays," said Mr. Coukos. A full schedule is available online at ajaxdowns.com
In addition to the new track, there are two big screens for fans to follow the races and outdoor grandstands that can seat up to 800 people. Last year, the renovations were estimated to cost $5 million.
"Our catchphrase is, 'Catch the excitement and feel the speed' and we think we have a great entertainment venue," said Mr. Coukos, adding that going to the races can be fun for the family. With the paddock where the horses are saddled right beside the grandstand, families can feel like they're part of the action.
"The proximity of the horses to the public is important," added Mr. Picov.
As well, the facility hosts special-event days and barbecues that cater to families.
"We can offer everything that Woodbine does, close to home," said Mr. Coukos.
In addition to fun for the public, Mr. Picov said the new track means about 300 agricultural jobs, most of them in Durham, including jobs at the track and in raising horses.
"The jobs that are created by this facility are full-time permanent jobs, that's something that's needed in our times now," said Mr. Coukos.
As for Mr. Picov, his enthusiasm for the family business is evident.
"Every day's fun. I love it."
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