Toronto, ON – Manufacturers of tack equipment who believe they can supply and produce a suitable product for the Ontario horse racing industry are invited to participate in an upcoming safety reins pilot program. Announced last month, the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) launched the pilot program in a move designed to facilitate a smooth transition to the introduction of safety reins in Ontario.

The six month pilot to identify safety reins will commence January 1, 2009. A multi-breed working group representing the interests of industry has been established to plan and implement the specific details of the pilot program.

Participating manufacturers will be asked to supply up to six sets of their safety rein product. Products will be tested and evaluated in the field in training and/or racing situations by a group of trainers who have agreed to participate in the pilot. Interested manufacturers are asked to declare their interest by November 20, 2008.

By developing an environment where manufacturers and end users can work together, the intended result will be a product or products that meet the requirement and are suitable for general application in racing.

The ORC remains committed to improving the safety of participants and ensuring the welfare of the horse. Through this phased-in approach for all breeds of racing, the ORC is encouraging the development of a product that meets the needs of Ontario licensees, all the while enhancing the safety component for both participants and horses.