Ajax families shook off the rain on August 30, 2026, to pack Ajax Downs for the 16th annual Family Fun Day in support of the Ajax Pickering Hospital. The overcast skies did little to dampen the spirits of the young and young at heart who came out for a day of games, animal encounters, inflatables, pony visits, live entertainment, magicians, face painting, and, of course, horse racing.
The event, hosted by the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation, ran from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and marked another year of bringing the community together for a good cause. Ajax Pickering Hospital has been a pillar of health in the community for over six decades. As a partner with Lakeridge Health, the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation funds vital equipment at Ajax Pickering Hospital, the Jerry Coughlan Health & Wellness Centre, and Lakeridge Gardens Long-Term Care Home.
Kids made their way through the inflatable obstacle course, enjoyed popcorn and cotton candy, listened to musicians, and watched magicians. The first 500 children also received free loot bags. In the background, the thud of horses’ hooves echoed as quarter horse races thundered down the track, with the first race post time at 12:55 p.m. The event also gave children the unique opportunity to try the track themselves from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The 50/50 raffle winner was Evelyn, holding ticket #0032. Photos and highlights from the day are now available online through the foundation’s events page.
The Family Fun Day has grown into a beloved summer tradition for the Durham Region community. Over its 16 years, the event has introduced many residents to the racetrack while raising funds for life-saving equipment. Ajax Downs itself has deep roots in the area, founded in 1969 by Alexander Picov and known for over five decades of quarter horse racing. For more information about the hospital foundation’s work, visit aphfoundation.ca.
