There may be some hope for small horse tracks like Dresden and Leamington.
The province says a new 19-year funding agreement includes help for smaller horse tracks and those in financial trouble.
The Ontario Horse Harness Association (OHHA) says small horse tracks like Dresden and Leamington have their days numbered and could close within three years under the new model.
The Ministry of Finance says Ontario will continue the Enhanced Horse Improvement Program and introduce a new Racetrack Sustainability Innovation Fund, providing up to $6-million over three years. That begins this year to help regional racetracks innovate, diversify and expand revenue sources to ensure the vitality of the industry for generations to come.
The Wynne Liberals say the pending deal provides up to $105-million a year for the horse racing sector starting April 1 and will support jobs in rural Ontario and strengthen local economies across the province. The long-term funding agreement also includes specific measures focused on supporting community racetracks, including operational funding and purses.
The Lakeshore Horse Racing Association says the agreement offers no incentives to expand horse racing at the Leamington track and adds that its future is uncertain beyond three years. They want to return to the negotiation table with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) before the Ontario Legislature is dissolved on May 7 to get ready for the June election.
The province says the funding will be administered by Ontario Racing and its board will have equal representation of racetracks and breeders, with five seats for racetracks, five for breeders and an independent chair.
“Our government recognizes that the horse racing industry is vital to communities across Ontario. That’s why our government remains committed to ensuring long-term sustainability of the horse racing industry and the rural communities that depend on it. This new, collaborative agreement will provide owners, breeders and racetrack operators with the support they need to ensure stability and success for the long term,” says Jeff Leal, minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs.
“This agreement is a significant step toward ensuring the vitality of horse racing in Ontario. It is designed to benefit the entire industry and is the result of years of collaboration with the sector and the Ontario government. OLG will contribute nearly two decades of stable funding to promote sustainability and industry-led success,” says Stephen Rigby, president and CEO, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.