The Ontario government has signed agreements for transition funding with 12 racetracks for the 2013-2014 racing season. This funding is intended to bridge the gap between revenue lost by the ending of the Slots-At-Racetrack Program and operating costs while the industry transitions.
2013-2014
Woodbine Entertainment Group, on behalf of Woodbine and Mohawk Racetracks – $ 38,000,000
Western Fair – $ 3,250,000
Clinton – $ 525,000
Grand River – $ 1,269,500
Hanover – $ 450,000
Kawartha – $ 460,000
Sudbury – $ 320,000
Flamboro Downs – $ 3,600,000
Georgian Downs – $ 776,000
Hiawatha – $ 440,000
Fort Erie – $ 5,500,000
The Ontario government states that it is committed to working with the sector to develop a sustainable future for horse racing industry, guided by the report of the Horse Racing Industry Transition Panel.
On May 1, 2013, the Horse Racing Industry Transition Panel was directed by Premier Wynne to develop a concrete plan for the long-term sustainability of the Ontario horse racing industry. The panel has been working with the Ministry of Finance and the Ontario Lottery Gaming Corporation to integrate horse racing into Ontario’s broader gaming strategy. The final plan will be submitted by October 2013, but in the interim a draft plan is being presented at an information session on June 21st.
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