What We Do
Typically, Chaplaincy programs are supported by track operators, and donations from individuals who believe in our ministry. I sincerely ask that you consider the value of restoring a healthy relationship with a family member, or overcoming an addiction to alcohol, drugs or gambling. One day that could be a friend or family member or even you, in need of the Chaplain’s help.
I ask that you do your part as an individual horseperson. If you see a need at a race track or one of the training centres, please let the Chaplain know. Help is available. It is our desire to expand with more Chaplains in other parts of Ontario. We are partially funded by Woodbine Entertainment Group, but we need your help to make that possible. Eventually, it is our goal to become fully self-supporting.
What We Do
Typically, Chaplaincy programs are supported by track operators, and donations from individuals who believe in our ministry. I sincerely ask that you consider the value of restoring a healthy relationship with a family member, or overcoming an addiction to alcohol, drugs or gambling. One day that could be a friend or family member or even you, in need of the Chaplain’s help.
I ask that you do your part as an individual horseperson. If you see a need at a race track or one of the training centres, please let the Chaplain know. Help is available. It is our desire to expand with more Chaplains in other parts of Ontario. We are partially funded by Woodbine Entertainment Group, but we need your help to make that possible. Eventually, it is our goal to become fully self-supporting.
Who are the Race Track Chaplains?
Each day on the front sides and the backstretches of the tracks across Ontario, Chaplains are there in triumph and tragedy to provide Christian ministry to the entire racing community. They walk through the barns and paddocks, visit drivers rooms to offer devotions, prayer, encouragement and solutions to spiritual, emotional, material and physical needs of the racing workplace. Coming from all denominations, they respond to a call from their Creator. Walking the extra mile on behalf of their brothers and sisters is not a goal, but a spiritual mandate.
What Do Race Track Chaplains Do?
Ken Carter (Chaplain)
I pastored a church in our home town for 10 years before being called to the chaplaincy. We held church services in the backstretch of Mohawk until it closed in 2014. I returned to the church in Grand Valley as well as continuing the chaplaincy until November of 2019 when I left the church to devote more time to my calling as chaplain. I am open to speak in churches in the area to promote the chaplaincy work. Since Covid19 has influenced the racing industry in such a huge way with the cancelling of racing, most of my time now is being spent visiting training centres and farms to meet with those directly affected by the pandemic.
Support
- Visit sick and injured workers in hospital
- Host AA and similar meetings, make referrals to on-site and off-site substance abuse programs
- Provide food, clothing, and transportation to workers in need
Ceremonies & Events
- Officiate at weddings, funerals, baptisms, baby dedications, and memorial services
- Organize and host wholesome on-track events
– Building Relationships –
Our Global Backstretch Community
Working in this community are tradesmen, feed suppliers, maintenance workers, farriers, owners, trainers, drivers and grooms. Chaplains strive to minister to every person. There are literally hundreds of people working. The common denominator is their love of horses, pride in their work and around-the-clock dedication. These men and women are the backbone of the industry.
They are the horse’s advocates, their voice when they feel ill, their nurse when they need medication, their rescuer in time of danger, their ever constant teacher, companion, and caregiver.
Though workers are rarely mentioned in the media, we believe that each is uniquely gifted by God, and that they are the true heros of the track because their faithful work keeps not only the horses, but the entire industry running strong.
Chaplain Ken Carter
© Standardbred Race Track Chaplaincy of Canada | Banner: Photo Credit - WEG / Michael Burns Photography | Design by Nina Horten Designs