The future. Those two words are wrought with optimism and pessimism. Those who choose to see the glass half full instead of half empty look to the future with a dream of what could be. Canada’s harness racing landscape is one that seems to change daily. It becomes difficult within our industry to look at that glass half full. Nonetheless, with the challenges facing our industry from coast to coast, there remains a great opportunity for Standardbred Canada.
Standardbred Canada labels itself the leader of the industry. What is the leader? By definition it means an organization that has influence and power. Are we that organization? We have made inroads with some of the taxation discussions that are ongoing at the Federal level but there is still work to be done at all levels.
Our industry has one major problem that I see: too many voices for our industry. Every single government official will tell you, that without one common voice that represents all of the industry (be it provincial or federal), it becomes very easy for government to dismiss you. How can we get anything accomplished if each individual group who has a slightly different message to government has a seat at the table? Food for thought.
Standardbred Canada traditionally has been the breed registry and record keeper for our industry. However, I foresee SC having a greater role in our industry. It may not be today, or in the next year, but at some point our industry has to take notice of how extensive we are and how much we need a centralized leader for negotiations and discussions with our governments. The industry can be lot more streamlined if done correctly. I’m not saying that SC should step on any organizations toes; all efforts should be made to keep many of the current bodies in place for discussion on breeding and racing. However, if done correctly, much of the duplication can be nullified. Certainly, if applicable, all of those discussions need to be done timely, around a table and out in the open. There is no room for closed door dealings on a matter of this importance.
This piece is from someone who has grown up in this industry, has seen it wax and wane, has watched mistakes be repeated and wants to make a difference. My career as a veterinarian has taught me you can be optimistic and still fail; pessimistic and still succeed. Therefore I have chose to be a realist. The reality of the matter is that harness racing is changing and the only way for us to succeed is to have a plan and to see it through; opportunity is ever knocking, its time we open the door.