By Greg Douglas – Dr. Sport
SCENE & HEARD: There won’t be any shortage of things to talk about under the Marquee Tent this afternoon when racing fans have an opportunity to circulate with former playing greats from the Canucks, BC Lions, Whitecaps FC and three of the most engaging retired jockeys ever to ride at Hastings Racecourse.
Take your pick: Trevor Linden parting ways with the Canucks; Johnny Manziel now a member of the Montreal Alouettes; 17-year-old sensation Alphonso Davies leaving Whitecaps FC to join Bayern Munich next year and Triple Crown winner Justify retiring from racing.
All four of these intriguing stories dominated social media late this week and all four, no doubt, will be discussed during today’s Sports Alumni Day at the Races in support of local charities.
Tickets are available throughout the afternoon at the Marquee Tent reception area. Your $25 admission fee goes directly to charity and entitles you to a complimentary burger, beverage, live racing program and the chance to win a draw for a Hastings Day at the Races for four in Silks on a future race day.
The designated charities are the Canucks Place Children’s Hospice, BC Lions Alumni Foundation Support Fund and Covenant House Vancouver on behalf of Whitecaps FC
On your way to the Marquee area stop by the silent auction table in front of the winner’s circle. There are Ultimate Game Experience packages donated by the Canucks, Lions and Whitecaps FC as well as unique items such as a Henrik Sedin autograph stick, a 2011 Grey Cup helmet signed by the BC Lions in their championship year, Whitecaps FC autographed jerseys and soccer balls plus a one-night stay in a lavish executive suite at River Rock Casino Resort that includes dinner for four at the renowned Tramonto Italian Restaurant, courtesy of Hastings Racecourse.
Throughout the afternoon a quick mascot fist bump with the Canucks Fin, Leo the Lion and Spike of Whitecaps FC is recommended for good luck during today’s seven-race card.