Ava Hadfield had one of her dreams come true when she met Taylor Swift in Edmonton Tuesday, and soon she’ll be given the star treatment in Grande Prairie. This Sunday’s Brekkaas Vacuum and Tank Race for the Cure has been named Ava’s Day, in honour of the GP-born girl with terminal brain cancer.
The horse she wanted has already been donated, but local trainer Kathy McNally noticed she was missing a cart, harness and a saddle. The racing community is now working to get equipment for her miniature horse, and will be accepting donations.
“When we have to pull our ropes together, we’re a big family. Whether it had been here or anywhere else, if somebody takes the bulls by the horn, the horsemen are right there. They’re caring; we are caring and everything, and this run for the cure is a big, big thing.”
Ava was born in Grande Prairie and has lots of family here. She will be celebrating her sixth birthday early at Evergreen Park Sunday, complete with the singing of Happy Birthday by the grand stand and photos in the winner’s circle.
Anything raised over and above what’s needed will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society in her name. The Paint the Park Pink Day will also feature the sale of jockey-worn pink silks, pink lemonade and popcorn, and a frisbee toss for a trip for two anywhere Westjet flies.