Standardbred Breeders of Ontario Association director Tammy McNiven told Trot Insider today that a new trainer has been confirmed to the SBOA’s list of conditioners for the 2009 program.

“Darren McCall is the newest mentor trainer and Rich Thompson will be the mentor owner,” McNiven said.

McNiven also explained that there is a limited amount of spots open for this year’s program.

“We were ecstatic to be able to get Darren involved in the program,” she explained. “When we asked, he didn’t hesitate.”

In 2005, the SBOA initiated its New Owners program designed to encourage individuals with an interest in harness racing to take the direct step into ownership of a race horse.