Ontario Racing, in response to the latest impacts of COVID-19 on the provincial horse racing industry, is actively working with industry partners, government officials and others, in an effort to secure funds for equine-related support payments (subject to regulatory approvals) for Ontario Thoroughbred horsepeople.

In response to the recent temporary pause of live racing across the province due to COVID-19, Ontario Racing, and the Ontario Racing-formed Thoroughbred Task Force are actively engaging in discussions with key industry partners on how to leverage unallocated purse monies in the form of equine benefit payments that would be directed to Thoroughbred horsepeople for the care and well-being of their horses.

Once specific details are confirmed, Ontario Racing will communicate them to horsepeople.

“In keeping with its commitment to serve the best interests of horsepeople in the province and ensuring the care and well-being of our equine athletes, Ontario Racing is working in concert with industry partners and others to address the need for equine benefit payments for Thoroughbred horsepeople affected by the delay to the start of live racing, which was prompted by the province-wide lockdown on April 3,” said John Hayes, Independent Chair, Ontario Racing.