COSA On OMAFRA Report

Published: November 2, 2012 04:12 pm EDT

On Friday, November 2, the Central Ontario Standardbred Association issued a release in regard to the OMAFRA Panel' report on the provincial horse-racing industry's transitioning from the slots-at-racetracks program.

To view the OMAFRA Panel's report, click here.

To read the various responses from the industry, please click the corresponding links which appear below.

OHHA Responds To OMAFRA Report
Woodbine Entertainment Group
Western Fair District
Hanover Raceway
OHRIA
Jamieson, A-Mac On OMAFRA Report
OAAS Reacts To OMAFRA Report

The contents of the COSA release appear below.


The COSA Board would like to make the following comments regarding the OMAFRA Panel report.

The report provides a model for discussion. The panel recommends that the government work quickly to reach an agreement with a racetrack alliance group to set both race dates and purses. These are positive steps that can set the framework for success.

COSA’s most significant concerns are:

  • The model is incomplete and contains numerous inaccuracies.
  • We are not in favour of the drastic reduction in race dates, 54% from the previous year. More race dates are required across the board in order to secure a top-quality racing program that will encourage strong wagering as well as stimulating the provincial breeding program, ownership and development of top calibre horses in the province.
  • In order to maintain world-class racing and breeding in North America, the model should include a higher purse structure.
  • That a formula is necessary to be built into the model to provide incentives for racetracks to stimulate and improve wagering. The racetracks have significant influence on the product presentation and support systems to encourage increased wagering.

COSA recognizes the work and dedication of people who have built this industry and we are committed to doing everything we can to enhance the proposed racing model and improve the viability of horse racing in Ontario.


In an effort to consolidate discussion, post your comments on the following link: OMAFRA Report Released.

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