The Board of the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) has ordered a moratorium on all race date reductions. The effect of the moratorium is that racetracks will conduct no fewer race dates in 2010 than they did in 2009.
Applications from racetracks for the 2010 racing season amounted to reductions of 150 days from those approved race days for 2009. Combined with the overall decline in race days since 2006, this current decrease in race dates would mean a return to 1998 levels.
Recognizing the reductions proposed for 2010, in combination with this 5-year trend, may have significant and permanent impact on the participants and the future of the horse racing industry in Ontario, the Board ordered the freeze. “The seriousness of this situation requires a level of attention and investigation well beyond the normal race date process,” said Rod Seiling, Chair of the ORC. “The Board will be looking to receive an analysis of the issues and recommendations from the Executive Director.”
The ORC intends to conduct an in-depth analysis and evaluation of the impact of such a reduction, and will do so in consultation with the racing industry. Through a collaborative effort, it may be determined that a new approach to deciding race dates is required to better serve the interests of Ontario horse racing and the public. The moratorium is a temporary measure and will remain in place pending completion of this evaluation.
Racetrack operators have been advised of the moratorium and will be required to resubmit their race date applications by October 21, 2009. Applications may include changes in schedule but must include the same quantum number of days as approved in 2009. For the purposes of scheduling, Woodbine and Mohawk Racetracks will be considered one track.
The Executive Director will call on industry representatives and members of the racing community to assist him in this initiative. The goal is that, by working together, the number of race dates in the province can be optimized, at a level that provides sufficient racing opportunities to support a sustainable industry, and offer a reasonable rate of return for the businesses which showcase racing. As well, the initiative will focus on the need to deliver a quality product that is entertaining for the customer and provide a framework for moving forward and some certainty of the future for the many affected parties.
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