Skip to main content

Horse Racing

Post-Pandemic Horse Racing Economic Impact Study

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), in partnership with horse racing groups and associations, is conducting a post-pandemic economic assessment to quantify the current economic impact of the Ontario horse racing industry. This will help OLG and the industry better understand how the horse racing landscape has changed since OLG’s first comprehensive economic impact study, conducted in 2019.

The survey, which will be made accessible through industry associations, will be available from January 9 to February 9, 2024. Your participation is critical to help ensure the updated study captures a diverse range of data that accurately reflects the economic contribution of the industry.

The updated study will provide an important refreshed baseline of validated information that can be relied on by industry members to engage in meaningful and productive discussions about the sector.

Thank you in advance for taking part in the survey. If you have any questions about this initiative, or interested in completing a survey, please contact [email protected].

2019 Economic Impact of Horse Racing in Ontario

Supporting live sport for Ontarians, by Ontarians

OLG works in close partnership with Ontario Racing to help strengthen the industry and promote Horse Racing as a unique entertainment experience. If you’re looking for information about upcoming races, racetrack locations, how to place a bet, or seeking the legal online betting options in Ontario, visit www.Ontarioracing.com. With three breeds of racing available, action-packed excitement is available all year round.

How OLG supports horse racing

OLG’s Horse Racing division supports the industry by administering funding for purses and operational costs as set out in the Funding Agreement.

OLG also provides support that puts a focus on horse racing to grow the customer base and ensure the industry has a strong future in Ontario by:

  • Creating effective stakeholder relationships to support the needs of the horse racing industry
  • Contributing to the efficient and effective management of funding through performance measurements.
  • Sharing expertise to help the industry adopt its own Responsible Gambling program
  • Developing a strong brand and marketing strategy with the industry

CANCELLATION FEE

Effective October 1, 2022, OLG assumed oversight of the cancellation fees policy from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Also, effective October 1, 2022, is OLG Policy Directive No. 1 – 2022 replacing all previous cancellation fees directives. This updated policy sets out the amount, how the fee will be distributed, and under the conditions it will be applied.

Administration Directive No. 1 – 2022: Transfer of Cancellation Fee Oversight

OLG Policy Directive No. 1 – 2022: Cancellation Fees

For more information, visit OntarioRacing.com

ONTARIO HORSE RACING INDUSTRY PERFORMANCE RESULTS

OLG’s horse racing division is contributing to the efficient and effective management of funding through performance measurements. To support this objective, OLG established a working group in early 2016 called the Performance Management Excellence Group (PMEG).  The PMEG is led by OLG and includes representation from:

  • the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation;
  • the Ministry of Finance;
  • the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs;
  • Ontario Racing; and
  • the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

The PMEG is proud to release quarterly fiscal industry performance results using well-established key performance indicators. This effort is part of a broader integrated performance management system that provides up-to-date facts and information related to the horse racing sector in Ontario.

FUNDING AGREEMENT FOR LIVE HORSE RACING

Beginning April 1, 2019, OLG will provide nearly two decades of stable funding to help build a sustainable industry in the province. It is a comprehensive package of support that was designed to reach all areas of the industry and reaffirms OLG’s commitment to invest in a sector of Ontario’s gaming marketplace that provides a great deal of value to the province.

Amended and Restated Funding Agreement For Live Horse Racing
Exhibit 9.2(H)(I) Articles and By-Laws of Ontario Racing
Exhibit 9.2(H)(II) OR Membership Agreement
Exhibit 9.2(H)(III) ORM Management Agreement
FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE FUNDING AGREEMENT – COVID-19 CLOSURE PERIOD
SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE FUNDING AGREEMENT – EXTENDED TRANSITION FUNDING THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE FUNDING AGREEMENT – COVID-19 ADDITIONAL CLOSURE PERIODS

Play ButtonYvonne Schwabe, Breeder, Owner, Persleyden Farms

OLG Presents: Beyond the Track – Yvonne(Breeder)

Not your 9 to 5 job, listen to Yvonne discuss the intricacies of being a Breeder.

WATCH THE STORY
Play ButtonWoman standing next to a horse

OLG Presents: Beyond the Track – Michelle (Groomer)

Feel the passion and love as Michelle describes her role as a Groomer.

WATCH THE STORY
Play ButtonAssistant trainer riding horse

OLG Presents: Beyond the Track - Jeff (Assistant Trainer)

Dedication and pride are prevalent personalities traits exhibited by Assistant Trainers.

WATCH THE STORY
Play ButtonOLG beyond the track title

OLG Presents: Beyond the Track - Mike (Blacksmtih/Farrier)

There is pride in every step as the horse is thundering down the track.

WATCH THE STORY
Play ButtonTwo people racing horses

OLG Presents: Beyond the Track - Tyler (Jockey Valet)

From pride to comradely, listen to Tyler talk about how the role of a Jockey Valet is an integral part of the preparation process prior to each race.

WATCH THE STORY