Great Canadian Gaming Corporation announces today the temporary suspension until further notice of the conduct of racing and training at the Company’s three racetracks that are currently active. This includes Flamboro Downs in Hamilton, Ontario, Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver, B.C., and Fraser Downs in Surrey, B.C.
The suspension of racing and training activity is driven by the heightened concerns in both jurisdictions with the spread, and attempted containment, of the COVID-19 virus, and recent direction from provincial governments and health authorities in both Provinces to significantly limit public gatherings of any kind. The Company recently decided to conduct racing at all three tracks without spectators, but Great Canadian felt this more significant action was necessary to protect the health and well-being of the Company’s team members, the industry participants that race and train at the race tracks, and the support personnel for the industry.
“This was a difficult decision for the Company to make, especially considering a similar decision was made for Great Canadian’s gaming properties across the country just a few days ago. But as the circumstances changed in recent days in both B.C. and Ontario, we felt this was the only decision that addressed the current health concerns that are impacting so many other Canadians currently,” stated Matthew Anfinson, Chief Operating Officer. The Company will be working with the breed associations that represent the racing participants, as well as regulators, for the orderly shutdown of racing facilities at the three properties.
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