A year after building a new grandstand, the renovated Clinton Raceway will be hosting the 2026 National Driving Championship.
Standardbred Canada announced this week that Central Huron would host the event on July 26, 2026.
"(This year) represents 20 years since the first NDC and we are thrilled to be bringing the final to Clinton for the first time," said Darryl Kaplan, President and CEO of Standardbred Canada in a media release. "Fantastic partners at great tracks across the country have helped elevate the NDC into a highly anticipated series of events, culminating this year with the final on Legends Day at Clinton Raceway on Sunday, July 26."
Jessica Carnochan, Marketing Manager at Clinton Raceway, said the day will also mark a significant milestone for the local track.
"We are incredibly honoured that Clinton Raceway has been chosen to host the National Driving Championship while also celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame and the 25th Anniversary of our signature biennial event, Legends Day," she said.
The day of events will also serve as a fundraiser in support of the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation.
"Legends Day has always been about more than racing — it’s about tradition, community spirit, and giving back," said Carnochan. "By combining it with the National Driving Championship and the Hall of Fame’s milestone anniversary, we are creating a once-in-a-generation celebration that honours the pioneers who built this sport while supporting the healthcare services that care for our families, friends, and neighbours."
The NDC will determine one of Canada’s representatives, alongside reigning champion James MacDonald, at the next World Driving Championship, which Canada will host in 2027.
Drivers earn their way into the NDC by finishing first or second in one of four respective Regional Driving Championships.
