Canadian Operators Sign Horse Racing Partnership Plan

Five racetrack operators in Ontario have signed a partnership with the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.

Under Canadian gambling laws, the Gaming Corporation owns and operates several race tracks and casinos across the country. But its tasks also include providing its partners with “tools for success”, which is why the state authority invited five operators and the Ontario Racing Commission to be part of its Horse Racing Partnership Plan.

The agreements will establish a so-called “Standardbred Alliance” among racetracks and it’s supposed to provide stability and clarity for industry stakeholders. In addition, it will present a three-tier racing hierarchy of Gross Roots, Signature and Premier.

While Clinton and Hanover raceways have been classed as Gross Roots, Flamboro, Georgian Downs, Grand River and the Western Fair raceways have been classed Signature. The racetracks at Mohawk and Woodbine are Premier.

Racing calendar all set

The Standardbred Alliance has already developed a year-round racing calendar. Government representatives, regulators and operators have all contributed. Now the alliance is looking to attract foreign and domestic customers and provide more efficient services.

A new five-year racing program has also been established and local gambling news report the Georgian Downs and Flamboro Downs will both benefit from provincial funding for their racing purses. Revenues from pari-mutuel betting will be shared amongst tracks.