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Horse Racing

Post-Pandemic Horse Racing Economic Impact Study

OLG would like to thank everyone who took part in our horse racing post-pandemic economic assessment survey, which closed on May 31, 2024. We appreciate your contribution and the time that you have committed to assist in our analysis.

The survey, which we launched in partnership with racetracks, horse racing groups, and associations, will help us quantify the current economic impact of the Ontario horse racing industry.

OLG will assess the data collected and produce a final report in early 2025. These results 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. Additionally, 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.

2019 Economic Impact of Horse Racing in Ontario

Supporting live sport for Ontarians, by Ontarians

OLG works in close partnership with Ontario Racing to strengthen the industry and bring the excitement of the sport to Ontarians. Learn about upcoming races, explore racetrack locations, learn how to place a bet, and see the betting options in Ontario, all at www.ontarioracing.com. With three breeds of racing available, experience non-stop, action-packed excitement throughout the year.

How OLG supports horse racing

OLG’s horse racing division supports live racing across the province by:

  • Administering funding for purses, operational and capital costs and horse improvement programs
  • Building stakeholder relationships to address the diverse needs of the sector
  • Track and report on key performance measures for use by the industry
  • Share OLG’s knowledge related to RG as the industry continues to evolve and improve its own program
  • Finally, we collaborate with the industry to build its brand and develop a marketing strategy designed to engage and attract new fans to the sport
  • Showcase the Unfiltered segment better by adding a preview clip of the series with a direct link to watch the entire series on youtube/hulu.

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 supports industry strategies and decisions through the use of data and key performance indicators. To achieve this, OLG set up a working group in early 2016 known as the Performance Management Excellence Group (PMEG). The PMEG, led by OLG, brings together representatives from:

  • the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation;
  • the Ministry of Finance;
  • Ontario Racetracks;
  • Horsepeople;
  • Ontario Racing;
  • the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

PMEG reports are delivered quarterly using reliable key performance indicators. The reports are part of a comprehensive integrated performance management system, offering current data and information about the horse racing sector in Ontario.

FUNDING AGREEMENT FOR LIVE HORSE RACING

The 19-year funding agreement came into effect on April 1, 2019. Through the agreement, OLG provides funding to help build a successful horse racing industry in the province. The comprehensive agreement allows for support designed to reach all areas of the industry and reaffirms OLG’s commitment to invest in a sector of Ontario’s gaming marketplace that is vital to the province’s rural economy.

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.

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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.

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Play ButtonAssistant trainer riding horse

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

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

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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.

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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